7.2 Bhakti Yoga: The path of devotion
4 min read•august 15, 2024
is all about loving God with your whole heart. It's one of the main paths in Hinduism, focusing on building a close relationship with the Divine through and .
In this path, you express your through prayer, chanting, worship, and selfless service. The goal is to connect with God so deeply that you feel totally united, all through the power of love.
Bhakti Yoga: Devotion and Love
Defining Bhakti Yoga
Top images from around the web for Defining Bhakti Yoga
Brahman – Paramatman – Bhagavan – BHAKTI-YOGA.CH View original
Is this image relevant?
.jpg&w=640&q=75)
Bhakti yoga - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
_Hindu_in_midst_of_puja_in_Himachal_Pradesh_India.jpg&w=256&q=75)
Bhakti yoga - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Brahman – Paramatman – Bhagavan – BHAKTI-YOGA.CH View original
Is this image relevant?
Bhakti yoga - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Defining Bhakti Yoga
Brahman – Paramatman – Bhagavan – BHAKTI-YOGA.CH View original
Is this image relevant?
Bhakti yoga - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Bhakti yoga - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Brahman – Paramatman – Bhagavan – BHAKTI-YOGA.CH View original
Is this image relevant?
Bhakti yoga - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- Bhakti Yoga is one of the four main paths of yoga in Hinduism that focuses on cultivating devotion, love, and surrender to the Divine or a personal deity
- Involves developing an intimate, personal relationship with the Divine through various devotional practices and the channeling of emotions
- Described as a path of the heart that emphasizes the transformative power of love and the importance of surrendering one's ego to the Divine
- The ultimate goal of Bhakti Yoga is to achieve union with the Divine through the power of unconditional love and devotion
The Significance of Devotion and Love
- Bhakti Yoga places great emphasis on the cultivation and expression of devotion and love towards the Divine
- Devotion (bhakti) is seen as a powerful means of connecting with the Divine and transcending the limitations of the ego
- Love is considered a transformative force that can purify the heart and mind, leading to spiritual growth and ultimate union with the Divine
- The path of Bhakti Yoga encourages practitioners to develop a deep, personal, and loving relationship with their chosen deity or form of the Divine
Forms of Bhakti Yoga
Devotional Practices
- Prayer (prarthana) involves the recitation of devotional prayers, hymns, or mantras to express love and devotion to the Divine
- Chanting () is the repetitive singing of divine names, mantras, or devotional songs to evoke feelings of love and connection with the Divine
- Worship () is a central aspect of Bhakti Yoga that involves ritual offerings, prayers, and ceremonies performed in honor of the Divine or a personal deity
- Puja often incorporates the use of sacred objects, such as murtis (sacred images or statues), flowers, incense, and other symbolic offerings
Other Forms of Bhakti Yoga
- Meditation on the Divine () involves focusing the mind on the Divine or a chosen deity to cultivate a deeper connection and sense of devotion
- Selfless service () is the practice of offering one's actions and service to the Divine without attachment to personal gain or reward
- Pilgrimage to sacred sites () is a form of Bhakti Yoga that involves visiting holy places associated with the Divine or saints to deepen one's devotion and spiritual connection
- Study of sacred texts () is another form of Bhakti Yoga that involves the contemplation and reflection on scriptures and devotional literature to gain spiritual insight and deepen one's understanding of the Divine
Emotions in Bhakti Yoga
The Role of Emotions
- Bhakti Yoga places great importance on the cultivation and channeling of emotions, particularly love, devotion, and longing for the Divine
- Practitioners aim to transform all emotions, both positive and negative, into a form of devotion and offering to the Divine
- The path encourages the development of a deeply personal, intimate relationship with the Divine, often characterized by feelings of friendship, servitude, or even romantic love
The Nine Classical Emotions (Navarasas)
- The nine classical emotions () of Indian aesthetics are often used as a framework for understanding and cultivating devotional emotions in Bhakti Yoga
- These emotions include love (), joy (), wonder (), courage (), peace (), compassion (), anger (), fear (), and disgust ()
- Practitioners of Bhakti Yoga seek to experience and express these emotions in relation to the Divine, transforming them into a means of spiritual growth and connection
- The cultivation of these emotions is believed to purify the heart and mind, leading to a state of unconditional love and devotion towards the Divine
Bhakti Yoga in Hindu Traditions
The Bhakti Movement
- Bhakti Yoga has played a significant role in the development and popularization of Hindu devotional traditions, particularly from the medieval period onwards
- The Bhakti movement, which emerged in South India and later spread throughout the subcontinent, emphasized the importance of devotion and personal relationship with the Divine
- The movement challenged the authority of religious intermediaries and caste hierarchies, making the path of devotion accessible to all, regardless of social status or gender
Devotional Literature and Saints
- Bhakti Yoga has inspired the creation of a vast body of devotional literature, including hymns, poems, and songs composed by saint-poets from various regional and linguistic traditions
- Notable examples include the Tamil Alvars and Nayanars, the Varkari saints of Maharashtra (such as Jnaneshwar and Tukaram), and the North Indian saint-poets such as , Surdas, and Tulsidas
- These saint-poets have played a crucial role in popularizing the teachings and practices of Bhakti Yoga, making them accessible to the masses through their devotional compositions and exemplary lives
Influence on Hindu Worship and Traditions
- The principles and practices of Bhakti Yoga have been influential in shaping popular Hindu festivals, rituals, and temple worship
- Many Hindu temples and pilgrimage sites are dedicated to specific deities or saints associated with the Bhakti tradition, such as Krishna, Rama, Shiva, and Vishnu
- Bhakti Yoga has also contributed to the development of devotional schools (sampradayas) centered around specific deities or saint-poets, each with their own unique practices, teachings, and lineages
- Examples include the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition founded by , the Vallabha Sampradaya, and the Ramanandi Sampradaya
Key Terms to Review (30)
Adbhuta: Adbhuta refers to the concept of wonder or amazement in Hindu philosophy, particularly within the context of devotional practices. It represents the feelings of awe and reverence that arise from experiencing the divine. This emotion is a vital aspect of Bhakti Yoga, as it deepens the devotee's connection to God and enhances their spiritual journey through love and devotion.
Bhagavad Gita: The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to simply as the Gita, is a 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata. It takes the form of a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and the god Krishna, who serves as his charioteer, discussing complex themes such as duty, righteousness, and the nature of reality.
Bhakti sutras: Bhakti sutras are a collection of texts that outline the principles and practices of Bhakti Yoga, emphasizing devotion to a personal god as a means of attaining spiritual liberation. These teachings highlight the importance of love, surrender, and devotion in the pursuit of a divine relationship, serving as guidelines for practitioners to cultivate their faith and connection with the divine.
Bhakti yoga: Bhakti yoga is the path of devotion in Hinduism, emphasizing love and devotion towards a personal deity. This practice involves cultivating a deep emotional connection with God, which is seen as the most accessible and heartfelt way to achieve spiritual fulfillment and unity with the divine.
Bhayanaka: Bhayanaka refers to a concept in Hinduism that represents fearfulness or terror, particularly in the context of devotion and emotional experiences within Bhakti Yoga. It highlights the complex nature of devotion, where feelings of fear or anxiety can coexist with love and reverence for the divine. This concept helps in understanding the emotional spectrum that devotees may experience as they navigate their spiritual journey.
Bibhatsa: Bibhatsa is a Sanskrit term that translates to 'disgust' or 'aversion' and is often used in the context of aesthetic theory within Hindu literature and art. It represents one of the nine rasas, or emotional flavors, that evoke a particular feeling in the audience. In the realm of devotion, bibhatsa can manifest in the recognition of negative qualities or actions, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of divinity by contrasting it with human flaws.
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu: Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was a 15th-century saint and the founder of the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition, emphasizing the worship of Lord Krishna through devotion (bhakti). His teachings and life inspired a significant devotional movement that encouraged personal, heartfelt connection with the divine, shaping various aspects of Hinduism, including the path of devotion and the practices of prominent bhakti saints.
Devotion: Devotion is a deep love and commitment directed towards a deity or spiritual path, often expressed through practices like prayer, worship, and selfless service. In Hinduism, devotion takes on a central role in the relationship between the devotee and the divine, emphasizing personal connection and emotional engagement with God. This sense of devotion is beautifully illustrated in key texts, spiritual practices, and the lives of revered saints, highlighting its importance in achieving spiritual fulfillment and liberation.
Dhyana: Dhyana is a form of meditation that involves focused concentration and deep contemplation, aiming for a state of inner peace and unity with the divine. This practice is integral to various paths of yoga, helping practitioners achieve self-realization and enlightenment. By cultivating mindfulness and a profound connection to the divine, dhyana serves as a bridge to higher states of consciousness in both the disciplined approach of yoga and the devotional practices centered on love and surrender.
Divine grace: Divine grace refers to the unearned and unconditional love, favor, and assistance that the divine offers to individuals, enabling them to attain spiritual growth and connection with the divine. This concept plays a crucial role in Bhakti Yoga, where devotees seek to cultivate a personal relationship with the divine through devotion and surrender. In this context, divine grace is seen as essential for overcoming obstacles on the spiritual path and for experiencing the presence of God in everyday life.
Hasya: Hasya is a Sanskrit term meaning laughter or humor, often associated with joy and amusement in various contexts. In the spiritual practice of Bhakti Yoga, hasya represents one of the many emotional expressions of devotion towards the divine, showcasing how humor can be intertwined with spirituality. This emotional aspect encourages devotees to express their love for God in a playful manner, fostering a deeper connection through joy and light-heartedness.
Karuna: Karuna refers to compassion or empathy in Hindu philosophy, representing the desire to alleviate the suffering of others. It is an essential value that informs moral and ethical behavior, closely linked to the concept of dharma, as it encourages individuals to act in ways that support justice and harmony in society. In the context of Bhakti Yoga, karuna manifests as a deep devotion towards others, reflecting a personal connection with the divine and a commitment to serving humanity.
Kirtan: Kirtan is a form of devotional chanting or singing in Hinduism, where participants sing the names and glories of God, often accompanied by musical instruments. This practice is deeply rooted in bhakti (devotion) and plays a vital role in various devotional traditions, enhancing spiritual connection and communal harmony.
Love: In Hinduism, love is a profound and multifaceted emotion that plays a central role in devotion and the relationships between deities and their devotees. This concept encompasses various forms of love, including divine love, romantic love, and familial love, and is expressed through worship, service, and personal connection. The nature of love in this context emphasizes both devotion to the divine and the nurturing aspects of feminine deities, showcasing how love can manifest in spiritual practices and relationships.
Medieval bhakti movement: The medieval bhakti movement was a spiritual and social revolution in India that emphasized personal devotion to a deity, transcending traditional caste and religious boundaries. This movement, which gained momentum from the 7th century to the 17th century, focused on direct, emotional connections with God, often expressed through poetry, song, and dance, promoting equality and inclusivity in spiritual practice.
Mirabai: Mirabai, often referred to simply as Mira, was a 16th-century Hindu mystic and poet saint known for her passionate devotion to Lord Krishna. Her life and works are deeply intertwined with the Bhakti movement, emphasizing personal devotion over ritualistic practices and establishing her as a prominent figure within the Sant tradition of North India.
Navarasas: Navarasas refers to the nine fundamental emotions in Hindu aesthetic theory, often explored in art, literature, and performance. These emotions include love, humor, sadness, anger, heroism, fear, disgust, surprise, and peace, providing a framework for understanding human experiences and expressions. In the context of Bhakti Yoga, navarasas highlight the emotional connection between devotees and the divine, emphasizing the role of personal feelings in devotional practices.
Personal God: A personal god is a deity that individuals relate to on a personal level, often characterized by qualities like love, compassion, and the ability to engage in a two-way relationship with worshippers. This concept plays a significant role in devotional practices, where believers seek a direct and intimate connection with their chosen deity, often through prayer, rituals, and expressions of love.
Puja: Puja is a Hindu ritual of worship that involves offering devotion to deities, often accompanied by prayers, offerings, and ceremonies. This practice is a fundamental aspect of Hindu life, serving as a means to connect with the divine and express reverence, gratitude, and devotion.
Raudra: Raudra refers to a fierce, wrathful aspect of the divine, often associated with destruction and transformation in Hinduism. This term embodies the intensity of devotion and emotion that can arise in the relationship between devotees and the divine, highlighting the duality of love and fear that often accompanies deep spiritual experiences.
Seva: Seva is a Sanskrit term that means selfless service or altruistic action performed for the benefit of others, without any expectation of reward or recognition. It embodies the spirit of helping others and fulfilling one's social duties, while also being central to paths of devotion and selfless action, emphasizing the importance of community and spirituality in daily life.
Shaivism: Shaivism is a major tradition within Hinduism that reveres Shiva as the supreme god and emphasizes his role as both the creator and destroyer of the universe. This tradition highlights various paths to spirituality, focusing on devotion, meditation, and rituals centered around Shiva's divine nature.
Shanta: Shanta refers to a state of peace, tranquility, and serene devotion within the context of Bhakti Yoga, which emphasizes love and devotion towards a personal deity. This state is characterized by a calm and untroubled mind, allowing individuals to connect deeply with their divine object of worship. In Bhakti Yoga, achieving shanta is seen as a vital step in progressing towards higher states of devotion and spiritual realization.
Sringara: Sringara is one of the key concepts in Hindu aesthetics, representing love and beauty, often depicted in various forms of art, literature, and devotion. This term encapsulates the emotional aspect of love, particularly in the context of devotion towards deities, emphasizing an intimate relationship between the devotee and the divine. It plays a significant role in Bhakti Yoga, where expressions of love towards God are central to spiritual practice and devotion.
Sufi Influence: Sufi influence refers to the impact of Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam, on spiritual practices and beliefs, particularly in the context of devotion in various religious traditions. It emphasizes personal experiences of the divine, love for God, and the pursuit of spiritual union through practices such as chanting, poetry, and dance. This influence has significantly shaped the bhakti movement in Hinduism, which also focuses on personal devotion and emotional connection with the divine.
Surrender: In the context of Bhakti Yoga, surrender refers to the act of yielding oneself completely to a personal deity or divine will. It involves a deep trust and faith that one is guided and supported by the divine presence, leading to a profound spiritual relationship. This concept emphasizes letting go of ego and personal desires in favor of devotion, fostering a connection that is both intimate and transformative.
Svadhyaya: Svadhyaya refers to the practice of self-study or introspection, often involving the reading and contemplation of sacred texts. This concept emphasizes personal growth and understanding one's true self in connection with the divine. By engaging in svadhyaya, practitioners seek to deepen their spiritual knowledge and cultivate awareness of their thoughts, actions, and motivations, thus enhancing their spiritual journey.
Tirtha-yatra: Tirtha-yatra refers to the pilgrimage to sacred places in Hinduism, often undertaken as a means of spiritual purification and devotion. This journey is deeply connected to the practice of bhakti yoga, where the act of pilgrimage symbolizes a physical and emotional connection to the divine. By visiting these sacred sites, pilgrims not only seek blessings but also engage in rituals that reinforce their faith and devotion.
Vaishnavism: Vaishnavism is a major tradition within Hinduism that focuses on the worship of Vishnu and his avatars, primarily Rama and Krishna, as the supreme God. This tradition emphasizes devotion, or bhakti, to Vishnu as the means to attain salvation and liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
Vira: Vira refers to a heroic or valiant individual who exhibits qualities such as bravery, strength, and devotion, particularly in the context of Bhakti Yoga, which emphasizes devotion to a personal god. In Bhakti Yoga, vira embodies the spirit of a devoted practitioner who approaches their relationship with the divine with courage and a sense of adventure. This valorous aspect is significant as it inspires individuals to pursue their spiritual journey with determination and faith.