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How does Gaudiya Vaishnavism view the concept of liberation?
In Gaudiya Vaishnavism, the concept of liberation, also known as moksha, is viewed as the ultimate goal of spiritual life. It is seen as the highest state of consciousness, where the soul is freed from the cycle of birth and death and attains eternal bliss in the loving service of Lord Krishna.
According to Gaudiya Vaishnavism, the material world is a temporary and imperfect realm, full of suffering and illusion. The ultimate purpose of human life is to break free from this cycle of birth and death and attain liberation. This liberation is not seen as a mere escape from the material world, but rather a transcendence of it through a deep and loving relationship with Lord Krishna.
The path to liberation in Gaudiya Vaishnavism is through the practice of bhakti, or devotional service. Bhakti is the process of developing a loving relationship with Lord Krishna through various devotional practices such as chanting, hearing and reading about His divine pastimes, and serving Him with devotion. It is believed that by engaging in these devotional activities, one can purify their heart and develop a deep attachment and love for Lord Krishna.
Gaudiya Vaishnavism also emphasizes the importance of surrendering to the will of Lord Krishna. It is believed that by surrendering to Him completely and offering all actions and thoughts to Him, one can attain liberation from the material world. This surrender is not seen as a passive act, but rather an active and loving relationship with the Lord.
In Gaudiya Vaishnavism, liberation is not seen as a one-time event, but rather a continuous process of deepening one's relationship with Lord Krishna. It is believed that even after attaining liberation, the devotee continues to engage in loving service to the Lord in the spiritual world.
In conclusion, Gaudiya Vaishnavism views liberation as the ultimate goal of spiritual life, which is attained through the practice of bhakti and surrender to Lord Krishna. It is seen as a continuous process of deepening one's relationship with the Lord and experiencing eternal bliss in His loving service.