Bhakti in Jainism
Summary
In this paper Swami Brahmeshananda addresses a common misconception that Jainism lacks devotional sentiment. He explains that while Jain philosophy emphasises self‑effort and non‑attachment, devotion (bhakti) has always been integral to practice. Devotees direct reverence towards the siddhas (liberated souls), Tirthankaras, acharyas and other venerable beingsimage/. Forms of bhakti include vandanā (salutation), pujanā (worship), stuti (praise) and sravana (listening to scriptures). The article analyses hymns and prayers that praise the virtues of the Tirthankaras and recount the cosmic assembly (samavasarana) where Mahavira taughtimage/. Brahmeshananda notes that Jain devotional works often stress self-purification rather than petitioning for favours; true bhakti seeks to realise the pure Self rather than to obtain material rewardsimage/. The article also discusses the Navakār Mantra and the practice of worshipping infant Jina images (snatra puja), and it points out that Jain temples with altars and images are centres of community worship. The author emphasises that while objects of devotion vary, the ultimate goal is liberation, and genuine bhakti must be accompanied by right knowledge and conduct. He concludes that devotion in Jainism complements asceticism by inspiring moral virtues and fostering a sense of gratitude and humility.
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Conclusion
Jainism’s devotional tradition illustrates that love and reverence can coexist with rigorous ethics. By praising the Tirthankaras and reciting hymns, Jains cultivate humility and inspiration, but they always remember that liberation arises through self‑effort guided by knowledge and right conduct.