Significance of Pancaratra
Pancaratra is a crucial aspect of Hinduism that encompasses a system of worship centered on Lord Vishnu, highlighting devotion (bhakti) and various theological concepts. It comprises a category of scriptures and traditions that provide guidelines for rituals and devotional practices, interpreting the idea of prema, or divine love. Pancaratra is recognized as a significant component of Vaishnavism, offering instruction on worship methods, emphasizing the relationship between deities and practitioners, and asserting its authority alongside traditional Vedic texts.
Synonyms: Vaishnavism, Worship, Spirituality, Tradition, Philosophy
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Pancaratra'
Pancaratra in Hinduism is a significant tradition emphasizing devotion to Vishnu through liberal Agama texts, rituals, and philosophies. It guides worship practices, advocating the chanting of mantras and promoting theological insights into divine service and bhakti.
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) A tradition within Hinduism which involves specific rituals and mantras for worship, considered important for practitioners.[1] (2) A series of texts that outline the rituals, worship, and philosophy related to the worship of deities like Vishnu.[2] (3) The Pancaratra refers to a system of teaching that encompasses general principles handed down through oral tradition, which is compared to the teachings found in the Gita.[3] (4) A body of texts important in Vaishnavism that emphasizes ritual and philosophical doctrine.[4] (5) A scripture or tradition related to the worship of Vishnu, guiding rituals and understanding of divine service.[5]
From: Narayaniya (Narayaneeyam)
(1) A theological framework within which the text identifies Narayana and explains His worship and significance alongside other philosophical systems such as Samkhya and Yoga.[6] (2) A religious tradition in Hinduism related to the worship of Vishnu and associated texts, pertaining to the nature of dharma.[7]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A process that emphasizes chanting the maha-mantra both in japa and in loud kirtana.[8] (2) A collection of texts that provide guidelines on devotional practices, rituals, and philosophies within Hinduism.[9] (3) A category of texts that emphasize the worship of God through various practices, supporting the view that devotees can attain Vedic status through adherence to these teachings.[10] (4) A collection of scriptures that are expansions of the Vedas, emphasizing devotional worship.[11] (5) A set of scriptures that provide the basis for regulative devotional service.[12]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A scriptural text that discusses the concept of prema and its relation to possessiveness towards Vishnu.[13] (2) A text that explains the concept of prema arising from the Lord’s mercy endowed with knowledge of His powers.[14] (3) A Vedic scripture that illustrates principles and practices for achieving devotion and service to the Lord.[15] (4) A scripture or tradition that explains spiritual concepts, specifically related to bhakti and prema.[16]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) a type of scripture that discusses the superiority of loving service to the Lord[17] (2) A tradition within the Agamas that focuses on worshiping Vishnu and emphasizes devotion (bhakti).[18]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) A crucial text of the Vaishnavite tradition that explains rules and guidelines for spiritual life, often linked to the Tantric tradition.[19]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A set of texts containing guidelines for conducting worship rituals; indicated as instructions for proper adoration of Indra.[20]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Pancaratra represents a tradition that includes a set of scriptures and practices particularly related to the worship of Lord Vishnu and his manifestations.[21]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) A classification of texts and doctrines that encompass a form of worship and philosophy within the Bhagavata tradition, including the teachings of the Gita.[22]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) A set of Hindu texts that provide guidelines for temple worship and the installation of deities.[23]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The five elements including sky, wind, radiance, water, and earth that are integral to the installation and worship practices.[24]
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankara Bhashya)
(1) A school of thought that is often considered outside the authoritative Vedic texts, as it does not align with the traditional Vedantic philosophy.[25]
From: Mundaka Upanishad (Madhva commentary)
(1) A set of texts and rituals that became prominent in later ages for the worship of deities, particularly Vishnu.[26]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad
(1) A theological system that emphasizes the worship of Vasudeva and posits him as both the material and efficient cause of the universe.[27]
From: The Sarva-Darsana-Samgraha
(1) A tradition that outlines the worship practices directed towards the deity, encompassing elements necessary for devotional practices.[28] (2) A system of worship and beliefs that emphasizes devotion to Vishnu and is referenced in discussions of evidences and philosophical doctrines.[29]
From: Kashyapa Shilpa-shastra (study)
(1) A type of Vaishnava Agama that is more liberal in outlook and significantly influenced by Tantrika practices.[30]
From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)
(1) A sacred text of Hinduism that emphasizes the worship of Lord Vishnu.[31]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) The literary and doctrinal heritage of the Vaishnavaites, whose followers are known as Pancaratrikas.[32]