The Bhakti movement emerged primarily as a response to ___ and ___ in medieval India.

Ritualistic practices and social inequalities

True or False: The Bhakti movement rejected the idea of caste distinctions and emphasized equality among all individuals.

True

Fill in the blank: The term 'Bhakti' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Bhaj,' which means to ___.

Serve

What are the two main groups of Bhakti saints that arose in Tamil Nadu?

Alvars (devotees of Vishnu) and Nayanars (devotees of Shiva)

True or False: The Bhakti movement advocated for the strict adherence to rituals and superstitions.

False - The movement promoted a simple and logical view of religion.

Fill in the blank: The Bhakti saints composed poems in ___ languages to reach a wider audience.

Vernacular

What was the primary literary contribution of the Alvar saints?

Naalariya Divya Prabandham, a compilation of poems praising Narayana.

Fill in the blank: The philosophy of Advaita was propagated by Shankaracharya, who taught that the ultimate reality is the ___ of the individual soul and the Supreme God.

Oneness

What is the significance of Vachana literature in the context of Lingayatism?

Vachana literature comprises rhythmic Kannada writings that convey spiritual teachings and social awareness, emphasizing equality and devotion.

Fill in the blank: Ramanujacharya is known for founding the ___, which emphasizes qualified non-dualism.

Bhakti Marg

What role did Sufism play in the Bhakti movement?

Sufism shared similar concepts with Bhakti and emerged as a dissent against orthodox practices.

Fill in the blank: The movement reached its peak between the ___ and ___ centuries CE.

14th and 17th

What did the Nathpanthis and Siddhars have in common regarding their social views?

Both criticized traditional rituals and societal structures, advocating for a more egalitarian approach.

Fill in the blank: The Bhakti movement encouraged worshipping God directly without the need for ___ as intermediaries.

Priests

How did the Bhakti movement address social issues in Indian society?

By promoting equality, rejecting caste distinctions, and welcoming everyone, including marginalized groups, into the fold of devotion.

What was the function of the Anubhava Mantapa in Lingayatism?

It served as a space for open discussions on both worldly and spiritual matters, promoting inclusivity.

Fill in the blank: The concept of Tattvavada, introduced by Madhavacharya, involves two categories of reality: Svatantra Tattva and ___ Tattva.

Asvatantra

The Bhakti movement primarily aimed to ___ and ___ barriers among devotees.

Break down barriers of caste, religion, and gender