Significance of Devotion to God
Devotion to God is portrayed across various spiritual traditions as a sincere commitment, heartfelt love, and unwavering dedication directed towards the divine. In Jainism, Vaishnavism, Purana, and other spiritual paths, it encompasses worship practices, emotional attachment, and a deep commitment to divine service. This devotion is essential for spiritual liberation, emphasizing love, faith, and surrender to God. It serves as a central theme in practices from chanting and prayer to selfless service, advocating an intense relationship fostering spiritual fulfillment and enlightenment.
Synonyms: Faithfulness, Loyalty, Dedication, Reverence, Piety, Worship, Allegiance, Fidelity, Devotion., Spirituality, Sanctity
In Dutch: Toewijding aan God; In Finnish: Omistautuminen Jumalalle; In Spanish: Devoción a Dios
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Devotion to God'
Devotion to God in Hinduism encompasses deep emotional commitment, resignation to divine will, and dedication of all actions to the divine. It emphasizes unwavering love, spiritual practices, and the pursuit of liberation through heartfelt worship.
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The nature of dharma that arises when Sattva becomes dominant in a person.[1] (2) The intense love and commitment to God that is encouraged through the teachings of the Shrimad Bhagavata.[2] (3) A sincere and selfless love towards the divine, seen as the highest spiritual attainment in the Kali age.[3] (4) The sincere and focused love and worship directed towards Lord Krishna, leading to spiritual liberation.[4]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The deep commitment and reverence that Rama is encouraged to cultivate towards the divine.[5]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The act of showing love, respect, and commitment towards divine beings.[6]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) A fundamental aspect of bhaktiyoga that emphasizes unwavering love and dedication towards a divine figure.[7]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The act of worship and reverence shown towards a deity, specifically highlighted by Indrani’s worship for the return and safety of her husband.[8]
From: Padma Purana
(1) A central theme in the narrative, highlighting the necessity of faith and dedication to divine figures.[9]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The act of dedicating all actions to the Highest Teacher and making God the motive behind those actions.[10] (2) A focus on divinity that serves as a means to achieve higher planes of consciousness.[11]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) A commitment to worship and serve God as a central component of spiritual practice, exemplified through rituals and karma yoga.[12] (2) A concept important for spiritual practice that can lead to humility and love, crucial for reaching liberation.[13]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) This involves a commitment to spiritual practices and serving a higher power, which is part of niyamas.[14] (2) The act of dedicating oneself to a higher power which leads to the attainment of Samadhi.[15]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) A form of resignation to God, involving thorough worship and the consignment of all actions to Him without wishing for worldly enjoyments.[16]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) A sincere and steadfast commitment to worship and serve the divine being.[17] (2) A spiritual commitment to worship and serve God, particularly emphasized by Prahlada despite temptation and opposition.[18]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The heartfelt love and dedication one shows towards the divine, which is signified through actions like chanting and prayer.[19]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Deep emotional commitment and religious love directed towards the divine.[20] (2) The sincere and devoted act of faith and worship shown by individuals, particularly the Yajamana during temple activities.[21]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) King Brihadratha's commitment to religious practices and respect for divine beings.[22]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) The principle of worship that Abhinavagupta emphasizes as crucial for attainment of liberation and understanding of Brahman.[23]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) Concentration and dedication towards God, compared to various longing types in nature.[24]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A high level of commitment or affection towards God, linked to the honor due towards the Guru.[25]
Jain concept of 'Devotion to God'
Devotion to God in Jainism entails a sincere commitment to worship deities as a central aspect of spiritual practice, reflecting genuine faith and seeking divine assistance in one’s life and spiritual journey.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A sincere commitment and worship directed towards deities as part of spiritual practice.[26] (2) The sincere worship and faith directed towards the divine for assistance.[27]
The concept of Devotion to God in local and regional sources
Devotion to God embodies a profound love and commitment that fosters spiritual enlightenment and fulfillment, serving as a pathway to salvation, uniting individuals with the divine through heartfelt worship and selfless service across various spiritual traditions.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) An emotional attachment and commitment to God, advocated by both the Bhagavad Gita and Thomas a Kempis, seen as essential for spiritual fulfillment and enlightenment.[28] (2) Bharati’s deep spiritual connection and personal relationship with the divine beyond mere rituals.[29] (3) Wholehearted worship and love for God, which is a central tenet of the Gita leading to liberation.[30] (4) The spiritual commitment and prayerful attitude of the marriage couple during the ceremony.[31] (5) A central focus of life in Dayalbagh, where service to God is integrated with the commitment to serve humanity.[32]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The ultimate path preached in the narrative, emphasizing complete surrender and love for the divine.[33] (2) The sincere expression of reverence and love that guided King Shivaji's actions and Tukoba's behavior.[34] (3) A deep commitment and love directed towards serving and honoring God.[35]