What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
samskara
Example
The samskara ceremony celebrates the birth of a child and welcomes them into the family. [samskara: noun]
Example
The samskara ritual is believed to purify the soul and prepare it for the next stage of life. [samskara: noun]
sacrament
Example
The sacrament of baptism is a Christian rite of initiation into the faith. [sacrament: noun]
Example
Taking communion is a sacramental act that symbolizes the body and blood of Christ. [sacramental: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sacrament is more commonly used than samskara in everyday language, especially in Christian contexts. Samskara is less well-known outside of Hinduism and Eastern spirituality.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between samskara and sacrament?
Sacrament is generally considered to be a more formal term than samskara, as it is often used in religious contexts and has a long history in Christian theology.