Definition of Bhakti in Hinduism
Bhakti is a Sanskrit term that translates roughly to “devotion” or “love for God”. It’s a concept found primarily in Hinduism, but also in some Jainism, Sufi and Sikh contexts. Within Hindu practices Bhakti is an important factor in spiritual growth, allowing for an intimate and direct connection between individual and deity. Bhakti has become more recently associated with the Bhakti movement, a devotional subculture that emerged in India around 7th century C.E and celebrates Hindu deities through music, poetry and literature.
Theological Basis of Bhakti in Hinduism
The philosophical basis of Bhakti in Hinduism is that God is eternally present and omniscient, pervading all things and existing in every aspect of life. Belief in the divine unity of the universe is the cornerstone of Bhakti, that there is one ultimate power and this has been variously described by Hindu tradition as Brahman, Bhagawan and Ishvara – all terms which can be applied to denote the same ultimate reality. According to Hindu scriptures, establishing a connection with this power (which is referred to in Sanskrit as Bhakti Marga) is the only means of moksha or liberation from suffering and samsara, the cycle of death and rebirth.
Qualities of Bhakti in Hinduism
In Hinduism, Bhakti is expressed through a few key qualities. These are
• Faith: Believing in a power that is greater than ourselves, no matter which tradition or school of thought.
• Devotion: Showing unconditional love and dedication to that power.
• Selflessness: Putting the Divine before oneself and understanding that any actions taken are towards the benefit of the whole, not just the individual.
• Detachment: Letting go of any attachments that bind us to the physical world and material things.
• Surrender: Surrendering to the will of the Divine, believing that whatever happens is part of a larger plan.
Practicing Bhakti in Hinduism
There are various ways to practice Bhakti in Hinduism, and it’s important to note that it can be practiced to any deity, including avatars (incarnations) of Vishnu and Shiva, as well as historical teachers, enlightened beings and devotee of God.
• Songs of praise: Singing devotional songs that praise and glorify a deity is one way to cultivate Bhakti.
• Japa: This is the repeating of mantras or sacred phrases associated with specific deities.
• Meditation: Focusing on a deity in meditation is a time-honored practice for experiencing the Divine.
• Service: Working for the benefit of a deity or deity’s temple, such as doing charity work, is another form of Bhakti.
• Participation in rituals: attending festivals, celebrations and rituals dedicated to a deity can be a great way to express devotion.
Role of a Guru in Bhakti in Hinduism
Just as a driver needs a car and a pilot needs an airplane to be able to reach their destination, so too does a spiritual seeker need a guru to guide them on their path of Bhakti. The guru is a living link between oneself and the Divine, and will possess the wisdom, experience and guidance to help the seeker advance along their journey. A guru can provide invaluable insight, advice and direction to truly make the most of the experience of Bhakti.
Impact of Bhakti on Hinduism
The practice of Bhakti in Hinduism has had a profound impact on both Indian culture and practitioners of the faith. By providing individuals with a deeper understanding of the divine, Bhakti has enabled a greater connection between the material and spiritual worlds. Additionally, the concept of unconditional love and devotion embodied by Bhakti allows practitioners to act from a space of compassion and understanding, living in harmony with the environment and other living beings.
Trends in Practicing Bhakti in Hinduism
The advent of the internet has brought with it a whole new wave of trends in practicing Bhakti in Hinduism. Platforms such as YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram are now being used to spread the word about Hindu deities and festivals. Additionally, live streaming of Bhakti sessions is becoming increasingly popular, allowing people from all corners of the world to participate.
Modern Context of Bhakti in Hinduism
In today’s rapidly-changing world, it is important to understand the modern context of Bhakti in Hinduism. There is a tendency in some circles to romanticize Bhakti, which can be dangerous, as it can lead to a false sense of security and comfort in the face of real-world issues and problems. In order to truly reap the benefits of Bhakti, it is essential to recognize its power and the absolute responsibility it carries.
Role of Bhakti in a Secular Society
Given the vast diversity in beliefs, practices and cultures in today’s world, the role of Bhakti in a secular society has never been more important. Bhakti can bridge the gap between different faiths, as its emphasis on love, devotion and understanding can help to bring people together. Additionally, Bhakti can provide a sense of comfort and security in the face of adversity, allowing individuals to rely on their faith to help them overcome difficult times.
Bhakti in Hinduism and the Arts
Bhakti in Hinduism has been an integral part of the literary, artistic and musical movements in the subcontinent for hundreds of years. Hindu devotional music, in particular, has been a key force in religious and spiritual expression, inspiring artists to create works of art depicting themes and stories of Hindu deities. Furthermore, devotional literature, such as the Ramayana and Bhagavad Gita, are held in high regard in Hinduism, providing insight into the path of Bhakti and how to lead a pious and devoted life.
Limitations of Bhakti in Hinduism
Despite its many benefits, there are some limitations to Bhakti in Hinduism. Firstly, in order to truly experience the full power of Bhakti, it must be practiced with extreme discipline and dedication, for without this it can be easy to become complacent. Secondly, Bhakti does not necessarily provide a complete and comprehensive understanding of the inner workings of the universe. As such, it is important to also incorporate other key Hindu teachings such as yoga and meditation in order to gain a more holistic understanding of the faith.
Crux of Bhakti in Hinduism
The crux of Bhakti in Hinduism lies in the connection between the self and God. By embracing this connection, one is able to live with a sense of oneness and harmony with the entire universe. Furthermore, Bhakti is a tool to help individuals access their inner divinity, aiding in the experience of joy and bliss in day-to-day life. Finally, Bhakti can provide an experience of peace and contentment in the face of adversity, as well as a deep appreciation of the beauty and majesty of the natural world.
