In Hinduism and Yoga:
* Mind: Manas is often translated as "mind" and is considered the mental faculty responsible for thought, perception, and judgment. It's seen as the bridge between the physical body (annamaya kosha) and the spiritual self (atman).
* Mental body: In yoga philosophy, Manas is one of the five koshas (sheaths) that make up the human being. It's the mental body, responsible for emotions, desires, and thoughts.
* Inner self: Manas can also be interpreted as the inner self, the individual consciousness that resides within the body.
In Buddhism:
* Mental factor: In Buddhism, Manas is one of the 52 mental factors that contribute to the workings of the mind. It's associated with thought, perception, and cognition.
Other meanings:
* Desire: Manas can also be translated as "desire" or "passion," especially in the context of the Bhagavad Gita.
* Intellect: In some contexts, Manas can refer to intellect or understanding.
It's important to consider the context in which "manas" is used to determine its precise meaning.
If you're interested in exploring the concept of Manas in more detail, I recommend researching the relevant texts and philosophical frameworks within Hinduism, Yoga, and Buddhism.