Sankirtan

Definition

Sankirtan refers to the congregational chanting of holy names and devotional songs in Hinduism, particularly in the context of Bhakti traditions. It plays a vital role in expressing devotion and fostering a sense of community among practitioners. In South India, it was prominently practiced by the Alvars and Nayanars, who used Sankirtan as a means to share their spiritual experiences and teachings, connecting deeply with their local traditions and cultures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sankirtan is central to the practices of both Alvars and Nayanars, who composed numerous hymns that are still sung in South Indian temples today.
2. The act of Sankirtan is often accompanied by musical instruments like the harmonium, tabla, and cymbals, enhancing the communal experience.
3. Sankirtan serves as a powerful tool for spiritual upliftment, helping devotees to overcome personal challenges through collective devotion.
4. The chanting during Sankirtan is believed to purify the mind and body, creating a connection with the divine through rhythm and melody.
5. In addition to its spiritual significance, Sankirtan fosters social unity, bringing together people from various backgrounds in a shared act of worship.

Review Questions

• How does Sankirtan contribute to the community aspect of Bhakti traditions among the Alvars and Nayanars?
  • Sankirtan plays a significant role in fostering community among devotees in Bhakti traditions. The communal chanting creates a shared space for spiritual expression, allowing individuals to unite in their love and devotion for the divine. For the Alvars and Nayanars, this practice not only spread their teachings but also strengthened social bonds within their local communities, making spirituality accessible and collective.
• Discuss how the practices of Sankirtan by the Alvars and Nayanars reflect their theological perspectives on devotion.
  • The practices of Sankirtan by the Alvars and Nayanars reveal their deep theological commitment to personal relationships with the divine. Through their hymns and chants, they emphasized emotional devotion (bhakti) as a path to liberation. Their use of local languages made their teachings relatable, showing that true devotion transcends ritualistic practices and connects deeply with everyday life and spirituality.
• Evaluate the impact of Sankirtan on contemporary Hindu practices in South India, considering its historical roots with the Alvars and Nayanars.
  • Sankirtan has significantly influenced contemporary Hindu practices in South India by continuing the legacy of communal worship initiated by the Alvars and Nayanars. Today, it remains an integral part of religious gatherings and festivals, promoting a sense of unity and belonging among devotees. By integrating traditional melodies with modern forms of expression, Sankirtan not only preserves historical roots but also adapts to contemporary spiritual needs, reinforcing its relevance in modern worship.

Related terms

Bhakti: A devotional movement within Hinduism that emphasizes love and devotion towards a personal god.

Alvars:

Devotional poets and saints from Tamil Nadu who expressed their love for Lord Vishnu through hymns and songs.

Nayanars:

Saints devoted to Shiva, known for their poetic expressions of love and devotion, often linked to the Tamil Shaiva tradition.