Defining Categories in Hindu Literature: The Purånas as Ûruti in Baladeva Vidyåbhüsana and Jîva Gosvåmî: Journal of Vaishnava Studies

Abstract

For the Gau∂îya Vaiß∫ava tradition coming from K®ß∫a Caitanya (1486–1533), Ûrîmad-bhågavata, or Bhågavata-purå∫a, is the highest
scriptural authority. Indeed, Jîva Gosvåmî (16th century) describes it as sarva-pramå∫ånåµ cakravarti-bhütam, “the emperor of all authorities.” In this tradition’s theological project of establishing its doctrines with reference to scripture, the role of Ûrîmad-bhågavata has been paramount. And rightly so, for out of all canonical Sanskrit texts, Ûrîmad-bhågavata stands out as placing the greatest emphasis on Krisna as the Supreme Divinity, over and above even the majestic manifestation of Visnu. This emphasis on Krisna is one of the primary distinguishing characteristics of Krisna Caitanya’s teachings.