Which one of the following was the principal deity of the Bhagavatas?a...
The Principal Deity of the Bhagavatas: Narayan-Vishnu
The principal deity of the Bhagavatas is Narayan-Vishnu. The Bhagavatas are a sect of worshippers who follow the Bhagavata Purana, one of the eighteen Mahapuranas of Hinduism. The Bhagavata Purana is a text that glorifies Lord Vishnu and his various incarnations, especially Lord Krishna.
Explanation:
1. The Bhagavatas:
- The Bhagavatas are a religious sect that emerged during the Gupta period in India, around the 4th century CE.
- They were devotees of Lord Vishnu and worshipped him as the supreme deity.
- The Bhagavatas believed in the concept of bhakti, or devotion, towards Lord Vishnu as the means to attain salvation.
2. The Bhagavata Purana:
- The Bhagavatas follow the teachings and stories mentioned in the Bhagavata Purana, which is considered one of the most important texts of the sect.
- The Bhagavata Purana consists of twelve books (Cantos) and contains various narratives, philosophical discussions, and devotional hymns.
- It emphasizes the importance of devotion, love, and surrender to Lord Vishnu as the path to liberation.
3. Lord Vishnu and his Incarnations:
- Lord Vishnu is considered one of the principal deities in Hinduism and is regarded as the preserver of the universe.
- He is believed to have taken various incarnations (avatars) to restore cosmic order and protect the world from evil forces.
- Some of his prominent incarnations include Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and Lord Narasimha.
4. Lord Krishna and the Bhagavatas:
- Among all the incarnations of Lord Vishnu, Lord Krishna holds a special place in the hearts of the Bhagavatas.
- Lord Krishna is considered the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu and is revered as the complete manifestation of divine love and wisdom.
- The Bhagavatas consider Lord Krishna as the supreme deity and worship him with utmost devotion and love.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the principal deity of the Bhagavatas is Narayan-Vishnu, with a special emphasis on Lord Krishna as the complete manifestation of Lord Vishnu. The Bhagavatas follow the teachings of the Bhagavata Purana, which glorifies Lord Vishnu and his various incarnations, especially Lord Krishna. Their devotion and love towards Lord Krishna form the core of their religious practices.