Philosophy
What is Bhakti Yoga?
Yoga means to link up. Bhakti means loving service. Together they describe a path of connecting with the Supreme through devotion rather than through effort alone.
Where the word comes from
Yoga is more than physical exercise
The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit root yuj, which means to link up with, or to combine. Bhakti is derived from the Sanskrit word bhaj, which means loving service.
yuj
to link up with, to join, to combine
bhaj
loving service, offered with affection
So bhakti-yoga means to connect with the Supreme by means of loving devotional service.
Four paths, one culmination
The four yogas of the Bhagavad-gita
The Bhagavad-gita, the core spiritual text for ISKCON, describes four systems of yoga — four ways of reconnecting the self with the Supreme.
karma-yoga
Conscious action. Ordinary work performed as an offering rather than for oneself.
jnana-yoga
Philosophical study. Learning to distinguish the eternal self from the temporary body.
dhyana-yoga
Meditation, of which yoga-asanas and breathing exercises are only the first steps.
bhakti-yoga
Dedication and love. The path the Gita finally recommends, and where the other three arrive.
Today some practitioners treat the physical benefits of yoga as the end in themselves. In the traditional yoga systems, physical exercise is only one step on the path of God realization.
The culmination
The Gita ultimately prescribes bhakti-yoga — the path of dedication and love — as the culmination of the other yoga practices. Bhakti-yoga focuses on developing our dedication, service and love for the Divinity, Lord Krishna.
In the sixth chapter, after describing meditation at length, Krishna concludes that of all yogis the one absorbed in loving service to Him stands highest of all.
How it is practiced
Core Practices of Bhakti Yoga
Bhakti yoga is developed through several essential practices.
Mantra Meditation
Practitioners engage in the chanting of God's names, either individually on beads (japa) or in community through musical chanting (kirtan).
Sacred Study
Regular study of spiritual texts under the guidance of a spiritual teacher, particularly the Bhagavad-gita and Srimad Bhagavatam, helps deepen understanding and devotion.
Spiritual Community
Association with like-minded spiritual aspirants provides support and inspiration on the path.
Sanctified Diet
Following a pure vegetarian diet that has been offered to the Divine with devotion.
Principled Living
Upholding the principles of truthfulness, mercy, austerity, and cleanliness in daily life.
Through these practices, bhakti-yoga offers a comprehensive approach to spiritual life that combines devotional service with practical application, leading practitioners toward the ultimate goal of pure love for the Divine.
Come and practice with us
Bhakti yoga is learned by doing it in company. There are three easy places to begin, and nobody will ask what you already know.
Keep reading — What is Mantra Meditation? · Deity worship versus idol worship