Humility and Passion: A Caitanyite Vaishnava Ethics of Devotion

Author: Schweig, Graham M.

Source: Journal of Religious Ethics, Volume 30, Number 3, Fall 2002 , pp. 421-444(24)

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Abstract:

Two axiological elements—humility and passion—I argue, are at the ethical core of Bengal Vaishnavism. These modes of behavior, derived from early theological sources, are dialectically related and form the basis for an ethics of devotion that allows the devotee to accept, while simultaneously transcending social norms and identities. I draw primarily from what is considered the most honored story of the Bhāgavata Purāna, the Rāsalīlā, involving the cowherd maidens who exhibit the highest devotion to God, and from the Caitanya Caritāmrta, the biography of the sixteenth century revivalist and saint Caitanya, the tradition's model for devotional life.

Keywords: ethics; devotion; hierarchy; egalitarianism; passion; humility; feminine

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1467-9795.00116

Affiliations: 1: Christopher Newport University GMSchweig@aol.com

Publication date: 2002-09-01