- This is the community of Hindus dedicated to the Vishnu form of God. They are the largest group as well. Devotees belong to one of four sampradayas (sects) of Vaishnavism, the primary two focusing their venerations on Krishna and Rama, the two main representations of Vishnu as God. Vaishnavas are personalists who tend towards the bhakti traditions over any other. This branch of Hinduism dates back at least 5,000 years (millions according to the Vaishna world view). After the 12th century AD, bhakti renaissance occurred, bringing back large amounts of devotional sentiment. Centers of worship were revived and the religion gained millions of followers.
- Main Writings:
- Mahabharata
- Ramayana
- Gita
- Vishnu Purana
- Vedanta Sutras
Shaktism:
- Shaktism focuses on the deity, Devi, most often in the form of Shiva's wife. This is a complementary focus to Shaivism and in fact derives much of its philosophy from it. This sect emphasizes the non-difference between matter and spirit. This branch of Hinduism is known for sacrifices to the Gods.
- Main Writings:
- Devi Purana
- The Tantras
- Mahabhagavata Purana
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