Krishna

Definition

Krishna is a major deity in Hinduism, revered as the eighth avatar of the god Vishnu and celebrated as a supreme god in his own right. He embodies love, compassion, and divine playfulness, often depicted as a youthful figure playing the flute and surrounded by adoring devotees, symbolizing the connection between the divine and human experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Krishna's life stories are detailed in texts such as the Mahabharata and the Bhagavata Purana, highlighting his adventures and teachings.
2. He is often depicted in art as a playful child stealing butter or as a young man dancing with the Gopis, which emphasizes his playful nature and appeal.
3. The festival of Janmashtami celebrates Krishna's birth, marked by fasting, singing, dancing, and reenactments of his life.
4. Krishna is known for delivering the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred text that presents key philosophical ideas about duty, righteousness, and devotion.
5. His role as a divine lover is often explored in poetry and art, illustrating themes of love, longing, and spiritual devotion.

Review Questions

• How does Krishna's portrayal in art reflect his characteristics and significance within Hindu belief?
  • Krishna is often depicted in art as an enchanting figure playing the flute, which symbolizes his ability to attract souls through love and devotion. The imagery of him dancing with the Gopis illustrates themes of divine love and yearning for spiritual union. This artistic representation not only highlights his playful nature but also reinforces his role as a compassionate deity who engages intimately with his devotees, making him relatable and revered among followers.
• Discuss how Krishna's teachings in the Bhagavad Gita contribute to the understanding of dharma and righteousness in Hindu philosophy.
  • In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna imparts crucial teachings on dharma, or duty, emphasizing that one must act according to their responsibilities without attachment to outcomes. This doctrine encourages individuals to engage in righteous action while maintaining a spiritual focus. By providing guidance during Arjuna’s moral dilemma on the battlefield, Krishna illustrates the importance of adhering to one's duty even amidst challenges, thereby shaping Hindu ethical thought.
• Evaluate Krishna's influence on Bhakti movement and its impact on modern Hindu practices.
  • Krishna significantly influenced the Bhakti movement by embodying personal devotion and accessible divinity. His stories inspired numerous poets and saints who emphasized loving devotion over ritualistic practices. This shift transformed modern Hinduism by promoting intimate worship of deities through song, dance, and community gatherings. As a result, Krishna remains central to contemporary spiritual practices that foster direct connections between individuals and the divine.

Related terms

Vishnu: One of the principal deities of Hinduism, Vishnu is known as the preserver of the universe and is part of the holy trinity, alongside Brahma and Shiva.

Bhakti: A devotional trend within Hinduism that emphasizes love and devotion to a personal god, with Krishna being one of the central figures in Bhakti literature and practice.

Gopis: Cowherd girls in Krishna's childhood stories who represent the soul's longing for union with the divine, known for their devotion and love towards Krishna.