Krishnaism

Krishnaism
Founder
Followers of Vasudeva Krishna, Bala Krishna, and Gopala traditions
Regions with significant populations
India, worldwide
Scriptures
Bhagavad Gita, Bhagavata Purana, Harivamsa, Brahma Vaivarta Purana, Garga Samhita
Languages
Sanskrit, regional Indian languages

Krishnaism refers to a collection of Hindu traditions (sampradayas) that mainly focus on the worship of Krishna as Svayam Bhagavan (the Supreme God), considered the source of all reality, as opposed to being merely an avatar of Vishnu. This term is often used in academic discussions to distinguish Krishna-centered worship from other forms of Vaishnavism, such as Sri Vaishnavism, Ramaism, or Radhaism.

History and Origins

Krishnaism is believed to have originated in the late centuries BCE through the followers of the heroic deity, Vāsudeva Krishna. Over time, this tradition amalgamated with the worship of the "divine child" Bala Krishna and the Gopala-Krishna traditions, giving rise to the monotheistic school known as Bhagavatism.

During the early centuries CE, these non-Vedic traditions aligned with Vedic practices to gain recognition from the orthodox establishment. The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita are often considered one of the first expressions of Krishnaite theology.

Key Scriptures

The key scriptures that guide Krishnaism include:

These texts emphasize the devotional worship (bhakti) of Krishna, the supremacy of Krishna as God, and the pursuit of a personal relationship with the deity.

Distinction from Vaishnavism

Krishnaism differs from other Vaishnava traditions, which generally regard Krishna as an avatar of Vishnu. In Krishnaism, Krishna is seen as the original, highest form of God, or Svayam Bhagavan. Krishnaites, therefore, do not necessarily subscribe to the Vishnu-centric view found in other Vaishnava traditions such as Sri Vaishnavism and Ramaism.

Bhakti Movement

Krishnaism gained momentum during the Bhakti movement in medieval India. Bhakti poets like Meera Bai expressed their devotion to Krishna in personal and emotive ways, often disregarding formal religious institutions.

Forms of Worship

Worship within Krishnaism is centered on:

References

  1. ↑ David Lorenzen (1996). Theology of Krishna.
  2. ↑ John Stratton Hawley (2010). Hindu God Krishna. Yale University Press.
  3. ↑ Stephen Mitchell (2000). The Bhagavad Gita: A New Translation. ISBN 978-0-609-60550-9.
  4. ↑ "Krishnaism". Britannica.
  5. ↑ John Carman (1989). The Way of Love: The Bhakti Movement.

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