mata

Definition

A respectful title for a female spiritual leader or for a wife, mother, or grandmother of a male spiritual leader.

Etymology

Borrowed from Sanskrit माता (mātā), nom.sg. of मातृ (mātṛ, “mother”). Doublet of mater and mother.

Example Sentences

• "While possession is usually limited to Bhilala men, the mata entered women too, endowing them with the power of clairvoyance, enabling them to identify the evil spirits or daakans in their midst. The mata spoke through the possessed, forecasting the future, directing people and events for her proper propitiation."