Significance of Devotion to God
Devotion to God encompasses a sincere commitment to worship and serve the divine across various spiritual traditions, including Jainism, Vaishnavism, and Shaivism. It reflects unwavering love and dedication, often expressed through actions such as prayer, chanting, and rituals. This devotion is considered fundamental for spiritual growth and liberation, highlighting the necessity of faith and the emotional connection between the devotee and the divine. Ultimately, devotion leads to deeper spiritual fulfillment and a meaningful relationship with God.
Synonyms: Piety, Faithfulness, Religious devotion, Dedication, Allegiance, Worship, Loyalty, Fervor, Commitment, Spirituality, Reverence, Sanctity, Holiness, Adoration, Veneration, Godliness
In Dutch: Toewijding aan God; In Finnish: Omistautuminen Jumalalle; In Spanish: Devoci贸n a Dios; In German: Hingabe an Gott; In Swedish: H盲ngivenhet till Gud; In Malay: Pengabdian kepada Tuhan; In French: D茅votion 脿 Dieu
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Devotion to God'
Devotion to God in Hinduism is characterized by unwavering faith, emotional commitment, and dedication to divine figures. It emphasizes love, spiritual practices, and respect, leading to liberation and personal fulfillment through worship and service.
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The act of dedicating all actions to the Highest Teacher and making God the motive behind those actions.[1] (2) A focus on divinity that serves as a means to achieve higher planes of consciousness.[2]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) A commitment to worship and serve God as a central component of spiritual practice, exemplified through rituals and karma yoga.[3] (2) A concept important for spiritual practice that can lead to humility and love, crucial for reaching liberation.[4]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja鈥檚 Rajamartanda)
(1) A form of resignation to God, involving thorough worship and the consignment of all actions to Him without wishing for worldly enjoyments.[5]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) The subperiod of Jupiter in the moon's period will bring forth a stronger commitment to religious practices and spiritual beliefs.[6] (2) This describes the act of showing dedication, loyalty, or reverence to divine beings, potentially influenced by astrological factors during a specific period.[7] (3) Devotion to gods is a result of the sub-period of Mercury occurring within the period of Venus, along with other benefits.[8] (4) The devotion to gods is mentioned in the fifth and tenth houses, this brings about right understanding, increase of prowess, greatness and renown, happiness from children and intimates.[9] (5) This signifies a commitment to religious practices and beliefs, potentially arising during Jupiter's subperiod within the moon's period, fostering spiritual growth.[10]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) A sincere and steadfast commitment to worship and serve the divine being.[11] (2) A spiritual commitment to worship and serve God, particularly emphasized by Prahlada despite temptation and opposition.[12]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The heartfelt love and dedication one shows towards the divine, which is signified through actions like chanting and prayer.[13]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Deep emotional commitment and religious love directed towards the divine.[14] (2) The sincere and devoted act of faith and worship shown by individuals, particularly the Yajamana during temple activities.[15]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) The deep commitment and reverence that Rama is encouraged to cultivate towards the divine.[16]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The act of worship and reverence shown towards a deity, specifically highlighted by Indrani鈥檚 worship for the return and safety of her husband.[17]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A high level of commitment or affection towards God, linked to the honor due towards the Guru.[18]
Jain concept of 'Devotion to God'
In Jainism, Devotion to God entails genuine worship and faith towards the divine for support, alongside a dedicated commitment to deities, reflecting an integral aspect of one's spiritual practice and growth.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A sincere commitment and worship directed towards deities as part of spiritual practice.[19] (2) The sincere worship and faith directed towards the divine for assistance.[20]
The concept of Devotion to God in local and regional sources
Devotion to God, as described, emphasizes a profound personal relationship with the divine, integrating service to humanity, surrender, and love, while being recognized across various spiritual teachings as essential for achieving liberation and spiritual fulfillment.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The expression of love and reverence towards a deity, which should be the underlying sentiment in musical performances.[21] (2) The emotional and spiritual connection a devotee has with their God, which manifests in various forms and attitudes.[22] (3) A dedicated spiritual commitment aimed at fostering personal and universal love, as related to broader concepts of Dharma.[23] (4) An act of deep love and commitment to a deity, often showcased through poetry and spiritual practice.[24] (5) The act of expressing love and reverence through music as a form of worship.[25]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The ultimate path preached in the narrative, emphasizing complete surrender and love for the divine.[26] (2) The sincere expression of reverence and love that guided King Shivaji's actions and Tukoba's behavior.[27] (3) A deep commitment and love directed towards serving and honoring God.[28]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The devotion to God is divided into two parts: devotion which works through forms and ceremonies and through words, and that which works through love, in every religion.[29]