vaishnavism

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vaishnavism

A devotee offers flowers at a Vaishnavism temple.

Definition

Proper noun 1. A major tradition within Hinduism: Vaishnavism is one of the principal denominations of Hinduism, characterized by its focus on devotion (bhakti) to the god Vishnu and his various incarnations (avatars), such as Rama and Krishna. 2. The religious practice and theology: It refers to the body of beliefs, rituals, scriptures, and devotional practices associated with the worship of Vishnu.

Usage Examples
  • As a religious tradition:
    • Vaishnavism is one of the largest Hindu traditions.
    • The philosophy of Vaishnavism is deeply rooted in concepts of dharma and divine grace.
  • Referring to practice or adherence:
    • His family's practice of Vaishnavism involves daily prayers to Lord Krishna.
    • The temple's architecture reflects the principles of Vaishnavism.
Advanced Usage
  • In theological or academic contexts: The term is used to discuss specific philosophical schools within the tradition, such as the Dvaita (dualism) and Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism) systems that developed under .
  • In historical context: has a long history, with devotional movements flourishing particularly from the early medieval period onwards across India.
Variants and Related Words
  • Vaishnava (noun): An adherent or devotee of Vaishnavism.
    • The Vaishnava saint composed many devotional hymns.
  • Vaishnavite (adjective): Pertaining to Vaishnavism or its followers. (Also used as a noun synonym for Vaishnava).
    • The festival is a major event in the Vaishnavite calendar.
Different Meanings / Contexts
  • Primary Meaning: The term almost exclusively refers to the Hindu sect and its associated beliefs and practices. It does not have common secular or metaphorical meanings.
Synonyms
  • Vishnuism: A less common, more direct synonym emphasizing the worship of Vishnu.
    • The scholar wrote a comparative study of Vishnuism and Shaivism.
Related Terms (Not direct synonyms but closely associated)
  • Bhakti Yoga: The path of devotion, which is the central spiritual practice in Vaishnavism.
  • Shaivism: The Hindu tradition centered on the worship of Shiva, often discussed in contrast to Vaishnavism.
  • Smartism: A liberal Hindu tradition that worships multiple deities, including Vishnu.
vaishnavism

A devotee offers flowers at a Vaishnavism temple.

Noun
  1. worship of Vishnu one of the 3 chief gods of the Hindu pantheon
  2. Hindu sect worshiping of Vishnu