What is Bhagavata Purana?
- Bhagavata Purana is one of the 18 major Puranas in Hinduism. It is also known as the Shrimad Bhagavatam, which means the “beautiful story of Bhagavan” or God. The Bhagavata Purana is a devotional scripture that primarily focuses on the life and teachings of Lord Krishna, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism.
- The Bhagavata Purana is written in Sanskrit and is composed of 335 chapters. It is divided into twelve books or cantos, each of which focuses on a different aspect of Lord Krishna’s life, teachings, and philosophy. The first canto describes the creation of the universe and the origin of the universe according to Hindu mythology. The subsequent cantos focus on the different avatars or incarnations of Lord Vishnu, of which Lord Krishna is the eighth.
- The Bhagavata Purana also emphasizes the importance of devotion and surrender to God as the path to salvation or moksha. It includes many stories and teachings that highlight the power of devotion, such as the story of Prahlada and his devotion to Lord Vishnu, and the Gopis’ devotion to Lord Krishna. The Purana also includes many devotional practices, such as the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra and the worship of Lord Krishna’s deities.
- Overall, the Bhagavata Purana is a significant text in Hinduism that emphasizes the importance of devotion to God and provides insights into the life and teachings of Lord Krishna. It is widely revered by Vaishnavas and other devotees of Lord Krishna.