Literally 'indestructible vehicle', another
term for the tantric tradition in North Indian and Tibetan
Buddhism.
Vak
In Sikhism, advice from the Guru obtained by
opening the Guru Granth Sahib randomly and reading the first
hymn of the page.
Valmik
7th ventury BCE. Traditionally held to be the
author of the Ramayana, held in particular reverence by the
Valmiki community.
vand chhakna
In Sikhism the sharing of one's wealth with
others.
Varna
One of the four social groups into which Hindu
society is traditionally divided: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas
and Shudras.
Veda
Literally 'knowledge'. The most important Hindu
scriptures comprising the four Vedas (Rig Veda, Sama Veda,
Yajur Veda and Atharva Veda Samhitas)
Vesak (Wesak)
Buddhist festival celebrating the enlightenment
of the Buddha.
Vishnu
Hindu deity, the Preserver.
vrat
A vow to perform a religious observance such
as a fast. Initiation into the vow (and the completion of
it) are marked in some special way, by an act of devotion
or by bathing.
