Divine Love in the Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava Tradition

Abstract

This article explores the concept of divine love (prīti) within the Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava tradition, as elucidated by Śrī Jīva Gosvāmī in his Prīti Sandarbha. Contrasting the universal human desire for happiness and freedom from suffering with the limitations of material pursuits and even traditional concepts of liberation (mukti), the author presents prīti as the ultimate goal of life (parama-puruṣārtha). Śrī Jīva defines prīti not merely as affection but as a profound experience encompassing both supreme bliss (sukham) and selfless fondness (priyatā) for Bhagavān (Śrī Kṛṣṇa). The article highlights the intrinsic characteristics of bhakti and prīti, emphasizing their transcendental nature, capacity to attract Kṛṣṇa, and superiority over mukti devoid of love. By examining Śrī Jīva's interpretation of the mahā-vākya "Tat Tvam Asi" ("You are that") through the lens of prīti, the essay underscores the oneness experienced through intense divine love, distinct from ontological oneness. Ultimately, the article concludes that this selfless prīti for Bhagavān, rooted in His pleasure potency (hlādinī śakti), is the highest fulfillment, leading to unending happiness and the complete realization of the self's potential in loving service.