Significance of Spiritual love
Spiritual love, as described in Vaishnavism, is a transcendent form of affection that emerges from a genuine connection with the Supreme Lord, specifically Krishna and Lord Gauranga. This love transcends material desires and encompasses deep devotion, emotional fulfillment, and ecstatic experiences. It is characterized by selflessness and aims at connecting devotees with the divine, often expressed through practices such as chanting and worship. Ultimately, spiritual love serves as the foundation for profound relationships with God, distinct from ordinary emotions and physical attachments.
Synonyms: Divine love, Sacred love, Unconditional love, Cosmic love, Heartfelt love.
In Dutch: Spirituele liefde; In Finnish: Henkinen 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 'Spiritual love'
Spiritual love in Hinduism embodies a profound, selfless devotion towards the divine, especially manifested through ecstatic emotions, deep affection, and transformative experiences in worship, surpassing material attachments and exemplifying the ultimate connection to God.
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) An elevated form of love distinguished from ordinary emotions, transcending worldly deeds.[1] (2) A heightened state of affection and devotion that connects the devotee to the divine, referenced in Krishna's vow to share it with others.[2] (3) An elevated state of affection characterized by unselfishness and enlightenment, often nurtured through devotion.[3] (4) Spiritual love represents the deep, affectionate bond and emotional connection between the devotee and the Supreme Lord.[4] (5) The deep, otherworldly affection and connection the devotees feel in relation to Lord Gauranga.[5]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The experience of pure, unconditional love that unfolds through devotion and practice of chanting the Holy Name.[6] (2) A pure impulse that emerges from a genuine connection with Krishna, transcending material desires.[7] (3) The pure devotion and service rendered towards the Supreme Lord, distinct from material affection or desire.[8] (4) The pure outpouring of affection directed towards God, free of selfish motives and desires for personal enjoyment.[9] (5) A profound devotion driven by an exclusive focus on God, distinguishing spiritual activities from mundane or moral conduct.[10]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A transcendent form of love that connects devotees with the divine, characterized by deep emotional and spiritual fulfillment.[11] (2) A profound emotional connection or affection that transcends ordinary feelings, evident from the sage's experience.[12] (3) An elevated form of affection that transcends material desires.[13]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A form of love that transcends the physical realm and resonates on a deeper, emotional and spiritual level, often resulting in ecstatic experiences.[14]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The divine love ('Daiva Rasa') that transcends physical desires and focuses on the connection with God.[15]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A transcendent form of love that pertains to divine relationships, primarily characterized by devotion to God.[16]
The concept of Spiritual love in local and regional sources
Spiritual love emphasizes a connection beyond physical attraction, as illustrated by Arjuna's love for Chitra's soul. This concept underscores the importance of emotional depth over physical consummation, illustrating a profound bond rooted in spiritual understanding.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A form of love that transcends physical or material expression, focusing on deeper connection and understanding within humanity.[17] (2) Arjuna loves Chitra's soul rather than her physical beauty, indicating a transition to spiritual love.[18] (3) A concept highlighted in the discussion, emphasizing that true love transcends physical consummation, focusing instead on a deeper emotional connection.[19]