Significance of Loving devotion
Loving devotion in Vaishnavism, also known as prema-bhakti, signifies a profound emotional commitment to the divine, primarily directed towards Lord Krishna. It encompasses a heartfelt attachment and dedication, leading to sincere worship and service. This deep affection fosters a close relationship with the Supreme Lord and is viewed as a crucial path to spiritual enlightenment, emphasizing emotional connection over mere liberation. Such devotion is marked by selflessness and profound admiration, manifesting in various devotional practices and experiences.
Synonyms: Passionate attachment, Fervent love, Steadfast devotion, Adoration, Loving attachment
In Dutch: Liefdevolle toewijding; In Finnish: Rakastava omistautuminen; In Spanish: Devoci贸n amorosa; In German: Liebevolle Hingabe
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Loving devotion'
Loving devotion, or 'prema-bhakti', in Hinduism embodies heartfelt affection and commitment towards the divine, particularly Lord Krishna. It fosters spiritual enlightenment through selfless love and emotional attachment, enriching worship and guiding devotees towards ultimate fulfillment.
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) An intense and sincere form of affection and commitment towards the divine, as expressed in devotional practices.[1] (2) a deep, affectionate commitment to the divine, characterized by surrender and service.[2] (3) The heartfelt and sincere worship directed towards the lotus feet of Shri Bhagavan, which is essential for reaching Vaikuntha.[3] (4) The heartfelt attachment and service offered to the Lord in Vaikuntha.[4] (5) The heartfelt and sincere love a devotee expresses towards the Supreme Lord, enhancing the quality of worship.[5]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A deep emotional commitment and love towards the Lord that leads a person to serve Him selflessly.[6] (2) The recommended path to achieving perfection, which emphasizes emotional and spiritual connection with the Supreme Lord rather than detachment from worldly life.[7] (3) A deep and sincere affection and dedication towards Krishna that transcends ordinary experience.[8] (4) The emotional and spiritual state achieved by the pure devotee, indicating deep commitment and love for Krishna.[9] (5) A profound and spiritual love directed towards the divine, exemplified by Shrimati Vishnupriya as the married consort of the Lord.[10]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) The intrinsic love and service directed toward Sri Krishna and His devotees, deemed essential for spiritual fulfillment.[11] (2) An intense emotional attachment and service towards God, exemplified in the life and actions of Nimai Pandit.[12] (3) The intense affection and commitment a devotee feels towards God, characterized by service and surrender.[13] (4) A state of profound affection and attachment towards the divine, which can manifest in various external behaviors.[14] (5) The sincere act of serving God with love, which forms the foundation for achieving true spiritual knowledge and connection.[15]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) The deep affection and commitment shown by the recipient, which has a profound impact on Shri Tulasi.[16] (2) Loving devotion refers to the deep affection and commitment shown towards the divine, which in this context is directed towards Lord Krishna.[17] (3) A deep and affectionate form of service directed towards the divine, characterized by a personal commitment and reverence.[18] (4) A strong, affectionate commitment to a divine presence, characterized by emotions of love and reverence.[19]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A deep, emotional commitment towards the Lord that encompasses the heart and mind.[20] (2) A heartfelt and affectionate pursuit of the Lord, crucial for experiencing His divine graces.[21]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The type of devotion aimed at cultivating a deep relationship with the divine, particularly in the context of Goloka Vrindavana.[22]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The profound attachment and service towards Shri Bhagavan, which enables devotees to overcome desires and attain spiritual liberation.[23]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A selfless, affectionate dedication to the divine that guides one towards spiritual enlightenment.[24]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) The heartfelt faith and affection that devotees cultivate towards Lord Gaura, which is essential for attaining Him.[25]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The affectionate attachment felt by both Suratha and the Vaishya towards the Muni as they seek guidance and comfort.[26]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) A deep emotional and spiritual connection with God, regarded as essential for attaining supreme bliss.[27]
From: Yoga-sutras (Vedanta Commentaries)
(1) A deep and affectionate commitment to God, central to the practice of bhakti yoga.[28]
The concept of Loving devotion in local and regional sources
Loving devotion encompasses sincere love and commitment towards the divine, expressed through worship, respect, and emotional attachment, ultimately inspiring miraculous occurrences and fulfilling the spiritual bond between devotees and deities.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A deep and sincere commitment to worship and serve a deity or spiritual figure.[29] (2) An intense emotional attachment and dedication shown by participants during the worship service.[30] (3) A deep, affectionate commitment and loyalty of a devotee towards the divine.[31] (4) The deep affection displayed by Tuka towards the god of gods, which ultimately leads to the manifestation of the divine.[32] (5) A deep, heartfelt love directed towards the divine, pivotal in spiritual practices.[33]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A heartfelt offering of love and worship towards the divine, indicating surrender and recognition of divine ownership.[34]