THE FOUR MAIN SECTS OF HINDUSIM
VaishnavismWHEN
Vaishnavism came into existence with the Indo-Aryans' compilation of the Vedas. WHO Vaishnavites worship Vishnu to the point of monotheism. WHERE Northern and Southern India UNIQUE EMPHASES Prapatti/bhakti - complete devotion or surrender to Vishnu Incarnation - Vishnu often reincarnates into a human or animal to protect dharma (morally correct behavior) |
ShaktismWHEN
Shaktism began sometime in the fifth century (400-499 CE). WHO Shaktas worship the Divine Mother, Shakti or Devi, who nurtures the earth. WHERE Northeastern India (Bengal and Assam) UNIQUE EMPHASES Sakti - female power Advaitic - tracks the soul's destiny Kundalini - power within the spine awakened through yoga and chanting |
SaivismWHEN
Saivism is the oldest of the four sects, dating back 8,000 years to the Indo-Aryans and, later, to the Gupta empire (third century). WHO Shaivas worship the god Shiva as their Supreme Being. WHERE Nepal, Sri Lanka, Northern India, Southern India UNIQUE EMPHASES Dualism - Shiva has two sides Self-discipline - Shivas follow "satgurus" and practice yoga |
SmartismWHEN
Smartism was formed by Adi Sankara in the ninth century (800-899 CE). WHO Smartas worship the Supreme, in six forms: Vishnu, Shakti, Shiva, Ganesha, Surya and Skanda. WHERE Northern and Southern India UNIQUE EMPHASES Accepting - Smartas are considered the most liberal denomination of Hinduism because of their acceptance of many gods as equal Brahman - Smartas consider all gods to be forms of Brahman |