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What are the main scriptures of Vishishtadvaita?
The main scriptures of Vishishtadvaita, also known as qualified non-dualism, are the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita. These texts are considered to be the primary sources of knowledge and wisdom for followers of Vishishtadvaita.
The Vedas are the oldest sacred texts in Hinduism and are considered to be the ultimate authority on spiritual knowledge. They are divided into four main sections - Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda. The Vedas contain hymns, rituals, and philosophical discussions that form the foundation of Vishishtadvaita.
The Upanishads, which are a part of the Vedas, are also crucial scriptures in Vishishtadvaita. These texts contain profound philosophical teachings and discussions on the nature of reality, the self, and the relationship between the individual and the divine. The most important Upanishads for followers of Vishishtadvaita are the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, the Chandogya Upanishad, and the Taittiriya Upanishad.
The Bhagavad Gita, a part of the epic Mahabharata, is another essential text in Vishishtadvaita. It is a dialogue between the warrior prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, where Krishna imparts spiritual wisdom and teachings on various topics such as dharma, karma, and the ultimate goal of life. The Bhagavad Gita is considered to be a practical guide for leading a righteous and spiritual life, and its teachings are deeply ingrained in the philosophy of Vishishtadvaita.
Apart from these primary scriptures, other texts such as the Brahma Sutras, the Narayaniya section of the Shanti Parva of the Mahabharata, and the Divya Prabandham are also considered to be important in Vishishtadvaita. These texts provide further elaboration and explanation of the teachings found in the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita.
In conclusion, the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita are the main scriptures of Vishishtadvaita, providing a comprehensive understanding of the philosophy's core principles and teachings. These texts are considered to be timeless and universal, providing guidance and wisdom to followers of Vishishtadvaita in their spiritual journey towards unity with the divine.