Sri Vaishnavism

How does one become a Sri Vaishnava?

Becoming a Sri Vaishnava, or a follower of Sri Vaishnavism, is a deeply personal and spiritual journey. It is not a process that can be achieved through external rituals or ceremonies, but rather through sincere devotion and understanding of the teachings of Sri Vaishnavism.

The first step towards becoming a Sri Vaishnava is to develop a deep love and devotion towards Lord Vishnu. This can be achieved through regular prayers, chanting of his names, and studying the stories and teachings of Vishnu as described in the sacred texts such as the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita.

Next, one must understand and accept the core principles of Sri Vaishnavism, as taught by the great philosopher and saint, Ramanuja. These principles include the belief in the supremacy of Lord Vishnu, the concept of surrender and service to him, and the importance of living a righteous and ethical life.

One must also understand the concept of Bhakti, or devotion, which is the cornerstone of Sri Vaishnavism. Bhakti is not just a mere emotional attachment to God, but rather a deep and intense longing to be united with him. This can be achieved through selfless service, meditation, and constantly remembering and glorifying the divine qualities of Lord Vishnu.

Another important aspect of becoming a Sri Vaishnava is to follow the path of Prapatti, or surrender. This means surrendering one's ego and desires to the will of Lord Vishnu, and trusting in his grace and mercy. This surrender is not a one-time event, but a continuous process of letting go and placing complete faith in the Lord.

In addition to these practices, one must also strive to live a life of Dharma, or righteousness. This includes following moral and ethical principles, performing selfless acts of service, and treating all beings with love and compassion.

Finally, becoming a Sri Vaishnava also involves seeking the guidance and blessings of a spiritual mentor, or Acharya. A qualified Acharya can provide valuable insights and guidance on the path of devotion and help one deepen their understanding of Sri Vaishnavism.

In conclusion, becoming a Sri Vaishnava is a journey of love, devotion, and surrender to Lord Vishnu. It requires a sincere and dedicated effort to understand and follow the teachings of Ramanuja, and a constant striving towards living a life of bhakti, prapatti, and dharma. By following these principles, one can experience the divine love and grace of Lord Vishnu and ultimately attain moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.