Bhakti The Yoga of Love (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780648893288)

In this comprehensive study of Bhakti, the Yoga of Divine Love, Gregor Maehle blends insights from traditional texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, the Bhagavata Purana and Narada's Bhakti Sutra with the teachings of revered authorities including Shri Ramanujacharya, Shri Ramakrishna and Shri Aurobindo. The author also shares his own personal experiences with Bhakti and explores the psychological nuances involved in transforming human love into divine love. The book covers various ways in which we can experience the Divine, our relationship with It, and why this relationship matters to the Divine. The text also delves into how the devotee is transformed in the process and discusses attitudes that facilitate Bhakti, different types of Bhakti, the practices involved, and the effects and outcomes of the Yoga of Devotion. Also explored are how Karma, Jnana, and Raja Yoga support Bhakti, and how they can be integrated into an all-inclusive whole. Furthermore, the work provides a comprehensive analysis of concepts related to Bhakti, including spiritual personality types, self-offering, the law of being, and the law of becoming. He also illuminates the ethical considerations that must be considered while practising Bhakti and clarifies important terms such as avatar, shraddha, and svadharma. Additionally, the text addresses common spiritual misunderstandings and guides those who wish to gain a deeper understanding of Bhakti. Overall, this resource is an invaluable asset to anyone seeking to explore the intricacies of this essential spiritual practice.