Jagannath

Definition

Jagannath is a deity worshiped primarily in the form of Lord Krishna, known for his wooden idol housed in the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri, India. The name translates to 'Lord of the Universe' and reflects the universal aspect of divinity in Hinduism. Jagannath is central to the Bhakti movement, which emphasizes devotion and personal connection with the divine, influencing many devotional practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The idol of Jagannath is distinctively made from wood and is replaced every 12 to 19 years during a special ceremony called 'Nava Kalebara'.
2. Jagannath's form includes large eyes and no mouth, symbolizing that he sees everything but does not consume worldly desires.
3. The Ratha Yatra attracts millions of devotees from around the world, emphasizing communal participation in worship.
4. Jagannath is considered an embodiment of compassion and love, appealing to devotees from diverse backgrounds regardless of caste or social status.
5. The Bhakti movement was significantly inspired by the worship practices centered around Jagannath, encouraging a more inclusive approach to spirituality and devotion.

Review Questions

• How does the worship of Jagannath reflect the principles of the Bhakti movement?
  • The worship of Jagannath exemplifies the principles of the Bhakti movement by emphasizing personal devotion and accessibility of the divine. Devotees view Jagannath not just as an idol but as a loving deity who engages with them personally. This approach aligns with the Bhakti ideology that promotes direct and emotional connections with God, breaking down barriers related to caste and social status.
• Discuss the significance of the Ratha Yatra festival in relation to Jagannath worship and its impact on communal identity.
  • The Ratha Yatra festival is significant as it serves as both a religious observance and a means of fostering community identity. During this festival, the deities are paraded through the streets in massive chariots, inviting participation from thousands. This event transforms devotees’ relationships with Jagannath into a shared communal experience, emphasizing unity, inclusivity, and collective devotion.
• Evaluate how the idol's unique features and worship practices contribute to Jagannath's role in shaping modern Hindu devotional expressions.
  • Jagannath's distinctive features, such as his large eyes and lack of a mouth, symbolize an all-seeing yet non-materialistic aspect of divinity that resonates deeply with modern devotees. The practices surrounding his worship, especially those stemming from the Bhakti movement, have led to a more inclusive approach within Hinduism that embraces all people regardless of background. This evolution in worship has influenced contemporary devotional expressions by promoting values such as compassion and community involvement, thereby keeping Jagannath at the center of vibrant spiritual life today.

Related terms

Bhakti: A devotional movement in Hinduism that emphasizes personal devotion to a god or goddess, fostering a direct relationship between the devotee and the divine.

Ratha Yatra: The annual festival in Puri where the idols of Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, are taken out in a grand procession on massive chariots.

Puri Temple: A significant Hindu temple dedicated to Jagannath located in Puri, Odisha, known for its architectural grandeur and vibrant religious festivals.