Significance of Devotional worship
Devotional worship, according to various philosophical and religious traditions, involves sincere reverence and love toward deities and the Divine. In Vaishnavism, it is exemplified by figures like Shri Prahlada Maharaja, who served his ishtadeva with fervor. This form of worship transcends mere rituals and emphasizes heartfelt adoration, service, and the performance of rituals aimed at spiritual elevation. It also includes practices aimed at honoring deities such as Gayatri, Vishnu, and others, highlighting devotion as a central aspect of spiritual practice across traditions.
Synonyms: Spiritual devotion, Religious reverence, Sacred worship, Divine adoration, Adoration, Veneration, Reverence, Piety, Prayer, Devotion
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Devotional worship'
Devotional worship in Buddhism involves revering deities, exemplified by the respect afforded to Bodhisattvas and other sacred beings, reflecting deep admiration and veneration within the practice.
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The act of revering or adoring deities, as illustrated by the respect and honor given to the Bodhisattva and other beings in the text.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Devotional worship'
Devotional worship in Hinduism encompasses rituals, prayers, and heartfelt expressions of love and reverence towards deities, focusing on sincere commitment and spiritual benefits, exemplified by practices dedicated to figures like Gayatri and Vishnu.
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A form of prayer and veneration that involves rituals and offerings to express one's faith and commitment.[2] (2) The acts of devotion and worship performed by a devotee during Jagarana, which include offerings and rituals aimed at attaining spiritual benefits.[3] (3) The act of reverently honoring the Kshetra Devata, which is essential for healing and divine favor.[4] (4) Acts of reverence and service performed with love and respect towards a deity.[5] (5) The act of worshiping the deity with flowers, incense, and unguents, which helps to rid one of all sins and attain the divine realm.[6]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The heartfelt reverence shown by various deities, sages, and beings towards Maha Lakshmi.[7] (2) The act of engaging in rituals and prayers to express devotion to the divine, notably Gayatri.[8] (3) The act of showing deep devotion and reverence towards the Divine, particularly through rituals and prayers.[9] (4) The act of showing reverence and devotion to the deities, particularly the goddess Gayatri and other mentioned deities.[10] (5) Refers to the act of honoring and serving divine beings with love and devotion, mentioned as important in the narrative.[11]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A form of worship that involves sincere adoration and respect towards God, transcending mere ritualistic practices.[12] (2) Acts of religious observance dedicated to God which encompass prayer, offerings, and service.[13]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The concluding act performed by the ascetic with a focused mind, directed towards worshiping the sun.[14] (2) The practice of worship that emphasizes sincerity and affection towards the divine, regarded as the core of acceptance.[15]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) The form of worship focused on deities, particularly the Devi-worship prominent in this Purana.[16]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Constant devotion to lord Vishnu, considered divine and liberating.[17]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Acts of veneration and reverence towards deities, often involving offerings and ritual practices.[18]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The act performed by Shri Prahlada Maharaja when he fervently served his ishtadeva Deity with devotion and arcana.[19] (2) The act of reverently serving and adoring Shri Bhagavan, leading to various spiritual results.[20]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) A practice where adoration is offered to gods, emphasized in the rituals performed during the sacrifice.[21]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) A type of worship centered on expressing love, reverence, and devotion towards a deity, often through personal feelings.[22]
From: Prasthanatrayi Swaminarayan Bhashyam (Study)
(1) A form of reverent practice that emphasizes genuine devotion and love towards Parabrahman, distinct from mere rituals or external actions.[23]
The concept of Devotional worship in local and regional sources
Devotional worship involves ritual practices and hymns dedicated to deities like Sakti and Aditi, as mentioned in the Rigveda and Puranas, alongside offerings by bhaktas aimed at honoring and connecting with the divine.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Materials brought by bhaktas for the purpose of honoring and praying to the Life of the world.[24]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The practice of rituals and hymns in honoring deities such as Sakti, Aditi, and others specified in the Rigveda and Puranas.[25]