Krishna

Definition

Krishna is a major deity in Hinduism, considered the eighth avatar of the god Vishnu. He is revered as the supreme god in his own right and plays a crucial role in various epic narratives, especially in the Mahabharata, where he serves as a charioteer and guide to the warrior Arjuna, imparting spiritual wisdom and philosophical teachings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Krishna's life story encompasses his childhood adventures in Vrindavan, his role in the Kurukshetra War, and his teachings in the Bhagavad Gita, highlighting his multifaceted nature as a deity.
2. He is often depicted playing the flute and surrounded by devotees, symbolizing his divine love and connection with humanity.
3. Krishna's relationship with Radha is central to many devotional practices and artistic expressions in Hindu culture, representing the ideal of divine love.
4. Festivals like Janmashtami celebrate Krishna's birth and are marked by joyous rituals and performances depicting his life.
5. Krishna is also associated with various themes such as dharma (duty), karma (action), and bhakti (devotion), which are integral to understanding Hindu philosophy.

Review Questions

• How does Krishna's character influence Arjuna's decision-making process during the battle of Kurukshetra?
  • Krishna serves as a charioteer and guide for Arjuna during the battle of Kurukshetra, helping him navigate his moral dilemmas about fighting against his own relatives. Through their conversations in the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna imparts teachings on duty (dharma) and righteousness that ultimately empower Arjuna to fulfill his warrior obligations. This dynamic illustrates how Krishna's character embodies divine wisdom that shapes critical choices in human life.
• Discuss the significance of Krishna's teachings in the Bhagavad Gita and how they relate to broader Hindu philosophical concepts.
  • In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna's teachings encompass key philosophical ideas such as dharma (duty), karma (action without attachment), and bhakti (devotion). These concepts guide individuals toward living a righteous life while balancing personal desires with responsibilities. Krishna's discourse promotes self-realization and understanding of one's place within the universe, making it foundational to Hindu thought and practice.
• Evaluate the impact of Krishna's portrayal in art and literature on contemporary Hindu identity and cultural expressions.
  • Krishna's portrayal in art and literature has significantly shaped contemporary Hindu identity by emphasizing themes of love, devotion, and moral integrity. His playful demeanor and divine exploits resonate deeply within various cultural expressions, from classical dance to modern storytelling. By celebrating Krishna through festivals like Janmashtami and through artistic representations, devotees forge a personal connection with spirituality that continues to influence their understanding of faith and community today.

Related terms

Vishnu:

One of the principal deities of Hinduism, known as the preserver and protector of the universe, often incarnating in various forms, including Krishna.

Bhagavad Gita:

A 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, featuring a conversation between Krishna and Arjuna, addressing moral dilemmas and philosophical questions.

Rasa: Aesthetic flavor or sentiment in Indian arts, which Krishna embodies through his playful and romantic exploits, particularly in relation to Radha.