Abhangas

Definition

Abhangas are devotional poems composed primarily in the Marathi language, often attributed to saints from the Bhakti movement, particularly those associated with the Varkari sect. These poetic expressions encapsulate deep devotion and longing for God, serving as a medium to convey personal spiritual experiences and insights into the divine relationship. They play a significant role in the philosophical foundations of Bhakti traditions by emphasizing personal devotion, community worship, and the importance of a personal connection with the divine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Abhangas were primarily composed by saints like Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram during the 13th to 17th centuries, reflecting their profound spiritual experiences.
2. The themes of abhangas often focus on surrendering to God, expressing devotion, and critiquing social norms that detract from spirituality.
3. These poems are typically sung during religious gatherings and festivals, fostering a sense of community among devotees.
4. Abhangas use simple yet powerful language to make spiritual teachings accessible to all, breaking down barriers of caste and class.
5. The rhythmic structure of abhangas enhances their musical quality, making them integral to devotional singing traditions in Maharashtra.

Review Questions

• How do abhangas reflect the core principles of the Bhakti movement?
  • Abhangas embody key principles of the Bhakti movement by emphasizing personal devotion, direct emotional expression towards God, and inclusivity in spirituality. Through their poetic form, they encourage individuals to connect intimately with the divine while challenging rigid social structures. This focus on personal experience over ritualistic practices highlights the movement's goal of accessible spirituality for all.
• What role do abhangas play in shaping community practices within the Varkari sect?
  • Abhangas serve as a central element in Varkari practices by promoting communal singing and shared worship experiences. The recitation of these poems fosters unity among devotees, strengthening communal bonds while allowing individuals to express their faith collectively. This practice is crucial for sustaining the spiritual energy of gatherings such as pilgrimages to the shrine of Lord Vithoba.
• Evaluate the impact of abhangas on contemporary spiritual movements in India.
  • Abhangas have significantly influenced contemporary spiritual movements in India by promoting themes of devotion and inclusivity that resonate with modern seekers. Their accessible language and universal messages continue to inspire new generations exploring spirituality outside traditional religious confines. By bridging cultural gaps and addressing contemporary issues through a devotional lens, abhangas remain relevant in shaping personal and collective spiritual identities.

Related terms

Bhakti: A spiritual path centered on devotion to a personal god, characterized by love and surrender, fostering a direct relationship between the devotee and the divine.

Varkari: A sect within the Bhakti movement that emphasizes worship of Lord Vithoba (a form of Krishna) through communal singing, pilgrimage, and spiritual practices.

Sant: A term referring to a saint or revered figure within the Bhakti movement known for their poetry, teachings, and contributions to devotional practices.