Common Nouns Lexicon

The harmikā–chattrā refers to the architectural ensemble located at the top of a Buddhist stupa, consisting of a square pavilion surmounted by a vertical spire made of superimposed discs. This element plays a symbolic, ritual, and visual role in Buddhist religious architecture.

Havelis are traditional Indian mansions, particularly found in Rajasthan and Gujarat, renowned for their rich architecture and elaborate decorations.

Hieratic script is a simplified form of Egyptian hieroglyphs used for administrative and religious writings on papyrus.

Hieroglyphs are a writing system used by the ancient Egyptians, composed of pictographic symbols

The Hijri calendar is the Islamic lunar calendar, starting from the Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina, known as the Hijra.

Hinayana is an early branch of Buddhism, often referred to as the "Lesser Vehicle," which focuses on individual liberation and monastic practice.

Hinduism is one of the oldest and most practiced religions in the world, primarily in India and Nepal, characterized by a diversity of beliefs, practices, and sacred texts.

The hti is a parasol-shaped structure adorning the top of stupas and pagodas in Southeast Asia, symbolizing spiritual ascension and divine protection.

Hypogean tombs are underground burial chambers carved into rock. Common in ancient civilizations, they are found in Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

A hypostyle hall is a room where the roof is supported by a series of columns or pillars, commonly found in ancient temples to create large covered spaces.