Bhakti- an Important Religious Development

Around the fifth century AD, there was a revival of Hinduism and the worship of the gods Vishnu and Shiva. Various goddesses also came to be worshipped widely. Some examples are Durga, Kali and Parvati, all consorts of Lord Shiva, and Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and consort of Lord Vishnu. The worshippers of Vishnu were called Bhagvatas. Everyone, irrespective of caste, sex or wealth was allowed to worship Vishnu. This worship was based on bhakti (the indivisual's faith and devotion). Bhakti was believed to be a direct bond between the devotee and the god he or she worshipped, established without rituals or the help of priests. It was believed that a devotee could attain moksha through bhakti. Image worship became very popular. Vishnu is said to have appeared again and again on earth to destroy evil and restore order. The worship of Krishna, an avatar (incarnation) of Vishnu, became very popular. Krishna came to be worshipped as a playful child, a divine lover and a great philosopher. His philosopher image can be seen in the Mahabharata, where he becomes a guide to his devotee Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. Bhakti found expression in literature, music and art.