Significance of Lord's pastime
In Vaishnavism, the Lord's pastime encompasses the eternal and limitless divine activities of a deity, highlighting the joy and amusement derived from these experiences. These activities not only showcase the Lord's opulence but also give rise to the diverse forms and varieties seen in Vaikuntha. Despite the concepts of appearance and disappearance, the events associated with the Lord's pastimes are considered endless and transcend the constraints of time and form, reflecting the depth of divine play.
Synonyms: Divine activity, Heavenly enjoyment, Divine play, Divine sport, Sacred activity
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Lord's pastime'
In Hinduism, Lord's pastime encompasses the divine activities and experiences of Bhagavan, characterized by joy and limitless manifestations, showcasing eternal forms and opulence, highlighting an endless cycle of divine plays beyond time and appearance.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The divine activities of the Lord that serve as both instruction and inspiration for devotees in their spiritual practice.[1] (2) The divine activities and stories associated with the Supreme Lord.[2] (3) The activities and divine play that the Supreme Lord enjoys with His servants.[3] (4) Refers to the divine activities and interactions of Lord Caitanya and His associates, often depicted in devotional literature.[4] (5) The continuous and limitless activities of the Lord, which are not bound by time or form.[5]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The divine activities and pastimes of Bhagavan that give rise to the different forms and varieties seen in Vaikuntha.[6]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Refers to the activities and stories associated with the divine figure's manifestations, emphasizing their significance.[7]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Refers to the divine activities and stories associated with the Lord, which generate devotion and ecstasy.[8]