Vaishnavist

Vaishnavism is one of the major traditions within Hinduism, distinguished by its worship of Vishnu as the supreme being. Adherents of Vaishnavism are known as Vaishnavites or Vaishnavas. Vishnu is often depicted as the preserver and protector of the universe, and his avatars, such as Rama and Krishna, are central figures in Vaishnavite theology and practice. These avatars are believed to descend to earth in times of crisis to restore dharma, or cosmic order.

The core tenets of Vaishnavism include devotion (bhakti) to Vishnu and his various forms. This devotion is expressed through prayer, meditation, chanting, and ritual worship. Many Vaishnavites follow a guru, or spiritual teacher, who guides them on their spiritual path. The Bhagavad Gita, a scripture that forms part of the epic Mahabharata, is a foundational text for Vaishnavism, elaborating on concepts of duty, devotion, and liberation.

Vaishnavism encompasses a wide range of philosophical schools and practices. Some prominent traditions include Sri Vaishnavism, which emphasizes the grace of Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi, and the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition, which focuses on the worship of Radha and Krishna. There are also numerous regional variations and devotional lineages throughout India and beyond, reflecting the diverse expressions of this major Hindu tradition.