Sri and Srivaisnavism Flashcards
Describe the Churning of the Ocean?
The Churning of the Ocean is a narrative story describing the origin of many important sacred objects and beings. Hindu gods and asuras churn the ocean together,
from which many good things from. Sadly, there is also a deadly cosmic poison that comes out of it. Siva swallows the poison to neutralize it, therefore staining his
throat a dark colour. The Goddess Laksmi is said to be born out of the Churning of the Ocean.
Who are the Srivaisnavas?
They are the most influential Vaisnava (Visnu as the supreme deity) group in South India.
How do devotees perceive Sri’s role?
She is seen as an intercessor/mediator between devotees and Visnu (supreme deity). She graces them with forgiveness and love.
What does the term astalaksmi refer to?
It refers to the eight forms of the goddess Laksmi, perceived as different types of wealth and prosperity.
How is Sri/Laksmi depicted?
She is associated with lotuses and elephans. One of her hand dispenses favours and the other dispells fears.
How is Laksmi often worshipped?
She is often worshipped through light offerings and food.
who are the Alvars?
they are Tamil poet-saints devoted to Visnu, from South India.
Define bhakti.
Bhakti refers to the loving relationship between a devotee and a personal deity.
What are the Upacaras?
They provide a structure for worship that make the deity happy, by treating the image of the deity as its living presence.
