Meditation plays a crucial role in Vishishtadvaita, which is a school of Hindu philosophy that emphasizes the concept of qualified non-dualism. This philosophy teaches that the ultimate reality is Brahman, the divine consciousness, and that all beings are ultimately one with Brahman, but also have individual distinctions and qualities.

In Vishishtadvaita, meditation is seen as a means to attain a deeper understanding and experience of this ultimate reality. It is believed that through meditation, one can transcend the limitations of the mind and connect with the divine consciousness within oneself. This is known as "Brahmanubhava," or the direct experience of Brahman.

One of the key practices of meditation in Vishishtadvaita is known as "Upasana," which involves focusing the mind on a particular form or aspect of God. This can be in the form of a deity, a mantra, or a sacred symbol. By meditating on these objects, one can develop a deeper understanding and connection with the divine.

Another important aspect of meditation in Vishishtadvaita is the practice of "Bhakti," which means devotion to God. This involves surrendering oneself to God and developing a loving relationship with the divine. Through Bhakti, one can cultivate a sense of oneness with God and experience the divine love and grace.

Meditation is also seen as a means to purify the mind and remove any obstacles that may hinder one's spiritual progress. In Vishishtadvaita, it is believed that the mind is the source of all suffering and that by calming and controlling the mind through meditation, one can attain inner peace and harmony.

Furthermore, meditation is seen as a way to develop virtues such as compassion, patience, and detachment, which are essential for spiritual growth. By cultivating these qualities, one can overcome the ego and realize the true nature of the self as one with Brahman.

In conclusion, the role of meditation in Vishishtadvaita is to help individuals connect with the divine consciousness and attain a deeper understanding of their true nature. It is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and transformation, allowing one to experience the ultimate reality of Brahman while still acknowledging the individual distinctions and qualities of all beings.