Significance of Bhakti (Devotion)
Bhakti, or devotion, in Vaishnavism and other philosophical traditions refers to a deep spiritual love and dedication directed towards divine beings, especially Vishnu. It includes the practices of worship, service, and emotional attachment that enhance one's spiritual connection and fulfillment. Bhakti is portrayed as a vital path for salvation, particularly highlighted during the Kali age, emphasizing sincere devotion over material pursuits. Various traditions, including Vedanta and Shaivism, underscore its role in achieving unity with the divine and attaining spiritual realization.
Synonyms: Devotion, Worship, Allegiance, Faith, Piety, Dedication, Love, Reverence, Loyalty, Adoration, Veneration
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Bhakti (Devotion)'
Bhakti (Devotion) in Hinduism embodies a profound and sincere love for God, particularly Vishnu, leading to spiritual fulfillment, liberation, and divine connection. It emphasizes heartfelt worship, service, and the pursuit of unity with the divine.
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A spiritual practice centering on love and devotion towards God, often seen as the path to realizing the Supreme.[1] (2) The embodiment of love for God, associated with the practice of Bhagavata recitation as a means to achieve spiritual connection.[2] (3) Personified concept narrating her struggles and the decline of spiritual values due to the Kali age.[3] (4) The heartfelt devotion to God that offers true solace to the soul tormented by worldly miseries, contrasted against the pursuit of fleeting yogic powers.[4]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Bhakti refers to devotion, a critical aspect in the Kali age that excels and leads to absorption into Brahman, providing devotees a means of salvation.[5] (2) The path of love and devotion towards God, prominent in the context of the devotional movement mentioned in the text.[6] (3) The concept of devoted love and worship towards a deity, particularly emphasized as a path to spiritual fulfillment.[7]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Refers to love, reverence, and devotion directed towards Vishnu.[8] (2) A deep and sincere love for Vishnu that leads to spiritual realization and liberation.[9] (3) A devotional practice characterized by love and dedication towards the divine, which is emphasized throughout the text.[10]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The form of worship that is capable of attracting the Bhagavan, emphasizing the importance of sincere devotion rather than material qualities.[11]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) A spiritual path focusing on loving devotion to God, which is honored in the teachings of the Gita as a means of achieving unity with the divine.[12]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) The form of service and devotion to God that strengthens one's relationship with Him.[13]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The devotion to the Supreme Lord that is said to manifest in Prayaga, enhancing its sanctity.[14] (2) The devotional service and love that devotees express towards their deities and spiritual figures.[15]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The spiritual devotion and love directed towards divine beings, exemplified by Mother Shaci's adoration of Lord Gaura.[16]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) The devotional service towards the divine, crucial for attaining a brahmarupa state.[17]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Devotion or love towards the Supreme, which aids in spiritual attainment.[18]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) A form of devotion characterized by love and attachment to a divine being or personal god.[19]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) A selfless devotion and offering oneself to God that is crucial for attaining divine grace and knowledge.[20] (2) A form of love and devotion towards God that binds Jnana and Karma, as emphasized in the teachings of Acarya Abhinavagupta.[21] (3) The path of unwavering devotion to God that connects the learner with divine grace and understanding.[22]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) The practice of devotion and love towards God, an essential component of worship.[23] (2) A loving devotion towards God, embodying eight integral parts that enhance the spiritual practice of worship.[24]