World Women's Day-The Heart (the seat of Mahalakshmi) in the Context of Sri Vaishnavism

The Interplay of Heart and Mind in the Context of Sri Vaishnavism

In the rich tapestry of Hindu philosophy, particularly within the Sri Vaishnavism tradition, the conceptualization of divinity and the human experience intertwines through profound symbolism and metaphysical understanding. The imagery of Mahalakshmi, the Divine Consort of Lord Vishnu (Sriman Narayanan), residing in His chest is emblematic of divine grace and the virtues of love, kindness, and compassion that permeate creation. This symbolism invites us to explore the relationship between the heart—often viewed as the seat of softer feelings—and the mind, the rational faculty responsible for discerning right from wrong.

The heart, in Vedic scriptures, is not merely an anatomical entity; it embodies the emotional essence of beings.Similar to our hearts supplying warm blood to the Brain, Mahalakshmi Thayar from the Heart of the Lord passes on Her Grace to the Brain which through the Supreme Consciousness/Mind controls the Body/Universe including the Heart. The Atharva Veda refers to the heart as the “hridaya,” a sacred space where emotions such as love and compassion thrive. Here, the heart is seen as the center of our spiritual existence, resonating with the vibrational frequency of love, which can dissolve the barriers of ego and separation. Shrimad Bhagavatam, a crucial text in Vaishnavism, emphasizes the transformative power of love through devotion (bhakti), where the devotee’s heart becomes a vessel for divine grace.

In a similar vein, the brain, which represents the cognitive and rational aspects of our being, holds the role of decision-making and discernment. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna imparts wisdom to Arjuna, emphasizing the importance of knowledge (jnana) in making righteous choices. However, while the mind advises based on logic and analysis, it is often the heart that gives meaning and purpose to such decisions. Thus, the heart and mind must work in harmony to navigate the complexities of life.

This interdependence is beautifully captured in the Vedic principle of "Dharma," or righteousness. The understanding of dharma requires not only intellectual engagement but also an intuitive connection to the heart's wisdom. The Mahabharata, another significant scripture, illustrates this interplay vividly through the character of Dharmaraja Yudhishthira, whose righteous actions stem from a deep understanding of both ethical principles and emotional intelligence.

When knowledge is infused with the qualities of love and compassion, it transcends into wisdom. The Upanishads, which delve into the nature of reality and the self, proclaim that true knowledge aligns itself with the principles of love. When we act with compassion, we elevate our consciousness and align ourselves with the divine will, thus experiencing a deeper connection to both humanity and the cosmos.

In Sri Vaishnavism, the ultimate goal is to achieve a state of union with the divine, which is symbolically represented by the merging of individual consciousness (jivatma) with supreme consciousness (paramatma). This union is facilitated by cultivating an open heart—a heart that embodies the qualities of Mahalakshmi and expresses love and kindness toward all beings. In his teachings, Vedanta Deśika, a revered Sri Vaishnava philosopher, stresses that the grace of the Lord manifests in layers of devotion that purify both the heart and mind, fostering a holistic understanding of one’s duty in the world.

In the context of Sri Vaishnavism, "Purushakaram" refers to the concept of a divine intermediary or facilitator, particularly in the process of devotion and liberation (moksha). The term combines two elements: "Purusha," meaning a person or being, and "Kara," meaning doer or one who acts.

Significance of Purushakaram in Sri Vaishnavism

1. Divine Intercession: In Sri Vaishnavism, Purushakaram is often associated with the role of divine beings such as the Acharyas, the spiritual teachers, and intermediaries that connect devotees to God (Vishnu). They guide the devotees on the path of righteousness and devotion, helping to remove obstacles in the pursuit of spiritual goals.

2. Role of Mahalakshmi: In many interpretations, Purushakaram can also refer to Mahalakshmi, who is considered the divine energy that enables the devotion of the devotees to reach the Lord. As the embodiment of grace and abundance, she plays a crucial role in facilitating the process of devotion and the attainment of moksha.

3. Bhakti and Grace: The concept emphasizes that while human effort (Purusha) is essential in the path of bhakti (devotion), divine grace is what ultimately leads to salvation. It highlights the interplay between self-effort and the reliance on divine will.

4. Philosophical Underpinnings: Purushakaram reflects the core philosophical teaching of Sri Vaishnavism that while individuals must strive to cultivate devotion and righteousness, they should also seek the grace of God through surrender and humility.

Therefore, Purushakaram in Sri Vaishnavism signifies the importance of divine intermediaries and the necessity of divine grace coupled with human effort on the spiritual path. It encapsulates the relationship between the devotee and the divine, emphasizing a balanced approach to spiritual practice.

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The imagery of Mahalakshmi (Purushakaram)residing in the chest(is that why Treasure is kept in Treasure Chest?!!) of Sriman Narayanan encapsulates the interplay between heart and mind, highlighting that knowledge and wisdom flourish when nurtured by love and compassion. As Vedic scriptures illuminate, a life guided by this harmonious relationship leads to a deeper understanding of dharma and fosters a more profound connection with the divine. As we aspire to embody these virtues, we engage in the eternal dance of existence, where the heart’s grace illuminates the mind’s path, ultimately guiding us toward spiritual fulfilment and collective upliftment.