Bhagavatism, Shaivism & Vaishnavism Video Lecture | SSC CGL Tier 2 - Study Material, Online Tests, Previous Year

Ans. Bhagavatism, Shaivism, and Vaishnavism are three major sects within Hinduism. The main differences among them lie in their primary deities and philosophical concepts. Bhagavatism focuses on the worship of Lord Vishnu, particularly in his various avatar forms such as Rama and Krishna. Shaivism worships Lord Shiva as the supreme deity, considering him as the creator, preserver, and destroyer of the universe. Vaishnavism, on the other hand, centers around the worship of Lord Vishnu as the ultimate god and emphasizes the concepts of devotion (bhakti) and divine grace (prasad). While all three sects are rooted in Hinduism, their differing beliefs and practices distinguish them from each other.

Ans. Bhagavatism, also known as Vishnuism, is centered around the worship of Lord Vishnu. The core beliefs of Bhagavatism include the idea that Lord Vishnu is the supreme deity and the source of all creation. Followers of Bhagavatism believe in the concept of avatars, which are incarnations of Lord Vishnu that descend to Earth to restore balance and righteousness. Bhagavatism also emphasizes the importance of devotion (bhakti) towards Lord Vishnu, as it is believed to lead to spiritual liberation (moksha). The sect's followers engage in various rituals, prayers, and recitations of sacred texts to express their devotion and seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Ans. Shaivism is a sect within Hinduism that places Lord Shiva as the primary deity. The main practices followed in Shaivism include the worship of Lord Shiva through rituals, prayers, and offerings. Devotees often visit Shiva temples to offer flowers, fruits, and other sacred items to the deity. Shaivites also believe in the significance of meditation and yoga as a means to connect with Lord Shiva and attain spiritual enlightenment. Additionally, observing fasts on specific days dedicated to Lord Shiva, reciting sacred texts such as the Shiva Purana, and chanting the mantra "Om Namah Shivaya" are commonly followed practices in Shaivism.

Ans. Vaishnavism and Bhagavatism are often used interchangeably, as both sects revolve around the worship of Lord Vishnu. However, there is a subtle difference between the two. Vaishnavism encompasses a broader range of beliefs and practices beyond the worship of Lord Vishnu, including the veneration of his consorts, Lakshmi and Radha. Vaishnavism emphasizes the concepts of devotion (bhakti) and divine grace (prasad) as the paths to spiritual liberation. On the other hand, Bhagavatism specifically focuses on the worship of Lord Vishnu and his avatar forms, such as Rama and Krishna. While Vaishnavism is a broader umbrella term, Bhagavatism can be considered a specific subset within Vaishnavism.

Ans. Despite their differences, there are several commonalities among Bhagavatism, Shaivism, and Vaishnavism. All three sects are rooted in Hinduism and share a belief in the existence of a supreme divine power. They also acknowledge the role of devotion (bhakti) as a crucial aspect of spiritual practice. Additionally, followers of Bhagavatism, Shaivism, and Vaishnavism engage in rituals, prayers, and the recitation of sacred texts to express their reverence towards their respective deities. The ultimate goal for practitioners of all three sects is to attain spiritual enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of birth and death (samsara).