In Hindu philosophy, Purusharthas are the four principal goals of human life: Dharma (righteousness), Artha (wealth), Kama (desire), and Moksha (liberation). The Srimad Bhagavatam, one of the most revered texts in Hinduism, introduces a fifth Purushartha: Bhakti (devotion). This concept elevates Bhakti to a level beyond even Moksha, emphasizing its profound spiritual significance.
The Traditional Four Purusharthas
- Dharma: The moral and ethical duties that guide an individual's life, ensuring harmony and order in society.
- Artha: The pursuit of material prosperity and wealth, necessary for survival and fulfilling one's responsibilities.
- Kama: The pursuit of pleasure and desires, which are considered legitimate when pursued in accordance with Dharma.
- Moksha: Liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara), leading to eternal bliss and union with the Divine.
These four goals represent the full spectrum of human aspirations, from worldly needs to spiritual liberation.
Bhakti: The Fifth Purushartha
The Srimad Bhagavatam presents Bhakti as a path that transcends even Moksha. Unlike the other Purusharthas, which can be seen as steps leading to Moksha, Bhakti is an end in itself. It is not merely a means to liberation but is considered the ultimate expression of the soul's relationship with the Divine. In the Bhagavatam, Bhakti is portrayed as the highest form of devotion, characterized by selfless love for God, which surpasses all other spiritual goals.
Importance of Bhakti in the Srimad Bhagavatam
The Srimad Bhagavatam places great emphasis on Bhakti as the most direct and accessible path to the Divine. This devotion is not confined to any particular ritual or practice but is an all-encompassing love that permeates every aspect of a devotee's life. It is said to purify the heart and mind, leading to a state of constant communion with God.
The Bhagavatam presents numerous stories and teachings that illustrate the power of Bhakti. One of the most famous examples is the story of Prahlada, a young devotee of Lord Vishnu, whose unwavering devotion saved him from the wrath of his demonic father, Hiranyakashipu. This story exemplifies how Bhakti transcends all worldly concerns and fears, leading to the ultimate protection and grace of the Divine.
Bhakti as Beyond Moksha
In contrast to other spiritual paths, which often focus on renunciation or self-realization as the means to Moksha, Bhakti is seen as a path of love and surrender. The Srimad Bhagavatam asserts that even Moksha, which is often considered the highest goal, is not the final destination. Instead, the true fulfillment of life is found in Bhakti, where the soul experiences eternal bliss in the loving service of God.
Krishna declares in the Bhagavad Gita (18.66):
"Sarva-dharman parityajya mam ekam sharanam vraja. Aham tvam sarva-papebhyo mokshayishyami ma shuchah."
(Abandon all varieties of dharma and just surrender unto Me. I shall deliver you from all sinful reactions. Do not fear.)
This verse highlights the superiority of Bhakti, where surrender and devotion to God surpass all other spiritual duties and lead to liberation.
Symbolism of Bhakti in Hindu Tradition
In Hindu symbolism, Bhakti is often represented as the loving bond between the devotee and the Divine. This bond is depicted in various forms:
- Radha-Krishna: The love between Radha and Krishna symbolizes the soul's deep yearning for union with God, with Radha representing the devotee and Krishna the Divine.
- Gopis and Krishna: The Gopis' unconditional love and devotion to Krishna signify the ideal Bhakti, where the devotee is completely absorbed in the love of God, forgetting all else.
- Hanuman and Rama: Hanuman's unwavering devotion and service to Lord Rama represent the selfless aspect of Bhakti, where the devotee seeks nothing but the pleasure of the Divine.
Modern Day Relevance of Bhakti
In today's world, where materialism and stress often dominate, Bhakti offers a path of peace and fulfillment. The practice of Bhakti can be a source of solace and strength, providing a sense of purpose and connection to something greater than oneself. In an age where people are often disconnected from their spiritual roots, Bhakti serves as a reminder of the importance of devotion, love, and surrender.
The simplicity of Bhakti makes it accessible to all, regardless of one's social status, education, or background. It is a path that emphasizes the heart over the intellect, encouraging individuals to cultivate a personal and loving relationship with the Divine.
Similar Concepts in Other Traditions
Bhakti, as a form of devotional love, is not unique to Hinduism. Similar concepts can be found in other religious traditions:
- Sufism: In Islam, Sufism emphasizes the importance of love and devotion to God, often expressed through poetry, music, and dance. The Sufi path seeks to experience divine love directly, much like Bhakti in Hinduism.
- Christian Mysticism: In Christianity, mystics like St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross spoke of the soul's union with God through love and devotion. Their teachings echo the Bhakti tradition's emphasis on a personal relationship with the Divine.
- Bhakti Movements: The Bhakti movement in medieval India, with saints like Kabir, Mirabai, and Tulsidas, emphasized the importance of love and devotion to God, breaking away from ritualistic practices and advocating a more personal, direct connection with the Divine.
Quotes on Bhakti in Hindu Scriptures
Bhagavad Gita (9.22):
"Ananyashchintayanto mam ye janah paryupasate; Tesham nityabhiyuktanam yoga-kshemam vahamyaham."
(To those who are constantly devoted and who worship Me with love, I give the understanding by which they can come to Me.)Srimad Bhagavatam (1.2.6):
"Sa vai pumsam paro dharmo yato bhaktir adhoksaje; Ahaituky apratihata yayatma suprasidati."
(The supreme occupation [dharma] for all humanity is that by which men can attain to loving devotional service unto the transcendent Lord. Such devotional service must be unmotivated and uninterrupted to completely satisfy the self.)Narada Bhakti Sutra (Sutra 1):
"Athato bhakti vyakhyasyaamah."
(Now, we shall explain what is meant by Bhakti.)The Narada Bhakti Sutra elaborates on the nature of Bhakti as a selfless, unconditional love for God, which is the highest goal of life.
The concept of Bhakti as the fifth Purushartha in the Srimad Bhagavatam redefines the spiritual goals of human life. By placing Bhakti above even Moksha, the Bhagavatam highlights the ultimate importance of love and devotion in the spiritual journey. Bhakti is not just a means to an end but is the highest fulfillment of life, offering a direct and intimate connection with the Divine. In today's world, the teachings of Bhakti provide a timeless and accessible path to inner peace, purpose, and spiritual realization.