Bhagavata

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Bhagavata, with the literal meaning of that which comes from Bhagavan or the Lord, signifies in the context of Hinduism a tradition devoted to worship of Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu. According to some historical scholars, worship of Krishna emerged sometime during the 1st century BC. However, Vaishnava traditionalists assert that the tradition has far more ancient beginnings.

The process of worship (known as bhakti) continued to develop over several centuries emphasizing worship and devotion in lieu of sacrifice. Later on it became assimilated into the Pancharatras sect of Vaishnavism. For modern day examples of Vaishnava traditions see the Hare Krishna movement and Gaudiya Vaishnavism.

[edit] See also

• Bhagavad Gita
• Srimad Bhagavatam

[edit] Reference

• Dictionary of Hindu Lore and Legend (ISBN 0-500-51088-1) by Anna Dallapiccola