Akshar-Purushottam Darshan

Akshar-Purushottam Darshan

Akshar-Purushottam Darshan is a philosophical and theological framework within the Swaminarayan Sampradaya, a sect of Hinduism. It was articulated by Swaminarayan, the founder of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya, and further developed by his spiritual successors. This philosophy emphasizes the dual worship of Akshar (the eternal abode and ideal devotee) and Purushottam (the supreme deity).

Historical Background

The Swaminarayan Sampradaya was established in the early 19th century by Swaminarayan, who is regarded by his followers as a manifestation of the supreme deity, Purushottam. Swaminarayan's teachings were compiled in the Shikshapatri and the Vachanamrut, which serve as foundational texts for the sect.

Core Concepts

Akshar

In the Akshar-Purushottam Darshan, Akshar is considered the divine abode of God and the ideal devotee. Akshar is eternal, omnipresent, and serves as the link between the material world and the supreme deity, Purushottam. Akshar manifests in two forms: the impersonal form as the divine abode and the personal form as the ideal devotee.

Purushottam

Purushottam is the supreme deity, transcending all forms and attributes. In the Swaminarayan tradition, Swaminarayan himself is regarded as Purushottam. He is the ultimate object of worship and the source of all creation.

The Relationship between Akshar and Purushottam

The relationship between Akshar and Purushottam is central to the philosophy. Akshar serves as the eternal servant and devotee of Purushottam, facilitating the liberation of souls by guiding them towards the supreme deity. Devotees are encouraged to become like Akshar in their devotion and service to Purushottam.

Scriptural Basis

The Akshar-Purushottam Darshan is primarily based on the teachings found in the Vachanamrut, a collection of spiritual discourses by Swaminarayan. Additionally, the Swaminarayan Bhashyam, a commentary on the Prasthanatrayi, provides a detailed exposition of this philosophy.

Influence and Legacy

The Akshar-Purushottam Darshan has significantly influenced the practices and beliefs of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya. It has led to the establishment of numerous temples and institutions dedicated to the worship of Akshar and Purushottam. The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, one of the largest branches of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya, actively promotes this philosophy worldwide.

See Also

• Swaminarayan Sampradaya
• Vachanamrut
• BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha

References

• Williams, Raymond Brady. An Introduction to Swaminarayan Hinduism. Cambridge University Press, 2001.
• Paramtattvadas, Sadhu. An Introduction to Swaminarayan Hindu Theology. Cambridge University Press, 2017.