Nandi
/ˈnʌn.di/noun
In Hinduism, Nandi is the sacred bull and devoted attendant of the god Shiva.
Did you know?In many Hindu temples, devotees whisper prayers into Nandi’s ear because he is traditionally regarded as Shiva’s faithful intermediary.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Sanskrit
Sanskrit
nand-
“To rejoice, be glad, or delight”
Classical Sanskrit
Sanskrit
nandin
“Joyful, pleasing, or causing happiness”
Classical Sanskrit
Sanskrit
Nandī
“Nandi, Shiva’s joyful sacred bull and attendant”
Early Hindu Shaiva tradition
Sanskrit
Nandikeśvara
“The lord Nandi; a revered form or title of Shiva’s bull attendant”
Medieval Sanskrit religious texts
Sanskrit
Nandīśvara
“Nandi as a divine guardian and teacher associated with Shiva”
Modern English
English
Nandi
“The sacred bull of Shiva, commonly represented in Hindu temples”