Significance of Love of God
Love of God is a central theme in Vaishnavism, emphasizing pure affection and devotion towards the divine. It represents the ultimate goal of spiritual practice, often cultivated through sincere engagement and chanting. Devotees experience profound emotional connections that can lead to ecstasy and spiritual realization. Despite challenges, such as offenses against devotees, a genuine relationship with God nurtures the soul. Love of God is viewed as a rare attainment that transcends material pursuits, encapsulating the essence of true devotion and connection with the Supreme.
Synonyms: Divine love, God's love, Spiritual love, Sacred love, Celestial love, Unconditional love, Devotion, Piety, Reverence, Adoration, Worship
In Dutch: Liefde voor God; In Finnish: Jumalan rakkaus
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Love of God'
In Hinduism, Love of God embodies the ultimate emotional and spiritual goal, characterized by profound devotion, grace, and connection to the divine. It is central to devotional practices, exemplified by chanting and genuine affection towards God.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The divine affection and compassion that the Lord showers upon living entities, described as essential and nurturing.[1] (2) The ultimate goal of devotional activities and teachings as described by Shri Gaurasundara.[2] (3) A deep, spiritual affection and devotion directed towards the divine, which is being distributed by the Lord.[3] (4) A profound and unconditional affection and devotion towards the divine.[4] (5) The ultimate goal of the teachings preached by Shri Gaurasundara, centered around cultivating a deep, devotion-driven relationship with the divine.[5]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The ultimate fruit of devotion that brings true happiness and union with the divine.[6] (2) Referred to as prema-avesha, it signifies a deep, devotional love experienced by Madhavendra Puri that transcended his awareness of time and place.[7] (3) The central focus of many spiritual paths, emphasizing deep emotional and devotional connection with the divine.[8] (4) Described as prema, this is the essence of devotion towards God and the fundamental aspiration of devotees.[9] (5) A central theme depicted in the text, illustrating emotional and spiritual devotion towards deities.[10]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The ultimate expression of wisdom that is cultivated from the knowledge of God, representing the emotional culmination of devotion.[11]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) The inherent affection and connection one develops towards the divine through the practice of mantras and worship.[12]
The concept of Love of God in local and regional sources
The Love of God encompasses essential spiritual teachings, emphasizing divine affection as transformative and fundamental for virtues, devotion, and social harmony, fostering a profound connection between humanity and the divine through service and worship.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A theme in the text reflecting devotion and the readiness to serve and honor divine presence, illustrated by Krishna's actions.[13] (2) An expression of deep affection and devotion towards God, illustrated by Namdev's singing.[14] (3) A deep affection and reverence for the divine, which is necessary for true devotion and praise.[15] (4) A deep and profound affection directed towards the divine, recognized as a transformative experience in the lives of devotees.[16]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A religious form of love that emerges from the desire to achieve union with the divine.[17] (2) The essence of Ramakrishna's teachings, positing that divine love is fundamental to human virtues and social harmony.[18] (3) A theme in the writings that represents a profound connection and devotion towards the divine, bridging the paths of love and knowledge.[19] (4) A profound, spiritual love that transforms the human experience, leading to divine connectivity.[20]