Introduction:
Sri Ramanuja, born in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu the renowned philosopher and theologian in the Vishishtadvaita tradition of Hinduism, is known for his 18 Rahasyas, or secrets, which are considered key teachings and principles in His philosophy. These Rahasyas are fundamental to understanding His interpretation of Vedanta and His devotion to Lord Vishnu. Here are the 18 Rahasyas of Sri Ramanuja.
Vishnu is the Supreme Reality
Sri Ramanuja emphasized that Lord Vishnu, or Narayana, is the ultimate reality, and everything exists within Him
Surrender to the Lord:
Surrendering to the divine grace of the Lord is the way to attain liberation.
The Importance of Bhakti
Devotion and love for the Lord are essential for spiritual growth.
Prapatti
Prapatti refers to total surrender to the Lord, acknowledging one’s helplessness and complete reliance on His grace.
The Eternal Bond
Sri Ramanuja stressed the eternal relationship between the individual soul (Jeevatma) and the Supreme Soul (Paramatma).
The Role of the Guru
A qualified spiritual teacher is crucial for guiding seekers on the path to liberation.
Worship and Service
Engaging in the worship and service of the Lord is a way to express devotion
Nama Japa
Repeating the divine names of the Lord (Nama Japam) is an important practice for spiritual growth
Acharya Sampradaya
Sri Ramanuja upheld the importance of tradition and the teachings passed down by great Acharyas (spiritual leaders).
Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads
Sri Ramanuja believed that the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads contain the ultimate knowledge of the self and God
Saranagati
Surrendering to the Lord includes offering oneself completely, both body and soul.
The Role of Scriptures
Scriptures are the source of divine knowledge and should be studied with reverence.
Dedication to Service
Selfless service (Kainkarya) to the Lord and His devotees is essential.
Bhakti Yoga
Sri Ramanuja advocated Bhakti Yoga as a means to attain the Lord’s grace.
Detachment from Material Desires
Detaching oneself from material desires and attachments is necessary for spiritual progress.
The Power of Prayer
Prayers and hymns dedicated to the Lord are potent means of seeking His blessings.
Acharya Abhiman
Respect and honor for one’s spiritual teacher (Guru / Aacharyan) is of utmost importance.
The Grace of the Lord
Ultimately, Sri Ramanuja emphasized that liberation is not attainable through one’s efforts alone but through the grace of the Lord.
Conclusion
These 18 Rahasyas encapsulate the core teachings of Sri Ramanuja and his philosophy of Vishishtadvaita, emphasizing devotion, surrender, and the eternal relationship between the individual soul and the Supreme Soul.
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