Bhakti Yoga: The Path of Devotion

Bhakti in Sanskrit means "devotion," which is a natural feeling of love and respect that extends outward. Everything in the universe comes under that. This is a divine emotion that helps lead a smoother life.

Bhakti word originates from the term "Bhaj," which translates to "to serve, to seek, or to depend on." When we consider this meaning, it's natural to develop a deep appreciation for the Prakriti (the phenomenon of cosmic manifestation) that sustains us. This appreciation extends to all living beings. Our parents who gifted us life, those who imparted us with the knowledge to overcome life's challenges, and the leaders who ensure our safety and governance. As this devotion develops further, it becomes a connection with the divine, the all-pervasive force that binds the universe together. This devotion goes beyond the limitations of space, time, and objects, resulting in the realization that nothing surpasses this connection.

The Many Sides of Bhakti

Bhakti can be broadly classified into two according to the ancient sages: Apara Bhakti and Para Bhakti. Apara Bhakti is the devotion that follows certain rules and rituals, such as chanting hymns and dedicated Upasanas. 

Bhakti arises from Sraddha or faith. It then progresses through various stages. Sravanam (listening attentively), keertanam (expressing devotion through words or songs), smaranam (remembering the divine), and then advances to ritualistic practices like pada sevanam (serving the feet of the deity), archanam (worship), and vandanam (offering respectful obeisances). As devotion strengthens, it reaches advanced states of daasyam (servitude), sakhyam (a state of amiability), and atma nivedanam (complete self surrender). These nine bhavas (emotional states) represent the different natures of Bhakti. Through dedicated practice, we can see the transformation of Apara Bhakti into Para Bhakti.

Bhakti Yoga in terms of Bhagavad Gita

According to the Bhagavad Gita Bhaktas or devotees are of four types based on their motivations:

Aarthan: This is a distressed person seeking freedom from hardship and misery through Bhakti.

Artharthi: This is someone who is motivated by desires. The person practices Bhakti expecting a material gain.

Jignasu: Mumuksha or Jignasu is the inquisitive mind, who utilizes Bhakti as a tool to discover the ultimate truth.

Jnani: For the wise man, bhakti is the path to understanding one’s true self i.e., Swarupa Anusandana. 

Swarupa Anusandana or the inquiry on the true nature brings the state of Ananya Bhakti, where there is no discrimination between self and everything else. This is Bhakti Yoga.

The Narada Bhakti Sutra and Shandilya Mimamsa Sutra, along with Puranas and Itihasas, show the importance of Bhakti Yoga through stories and examples. Bhakti is a powerful tool for all yogis, inspiring them and accelerating their spiritual progress. Following these inspirational examples can bring practitioners closer to their goals.