The Interpretation of Vaiṣṇava Divinity Doctrine by The Maha Warga Bhujangga Waisnawa in Bali Island

Abstract

Doctrinal issues are often a matter of contention between religious communities or beliefs. Therefore, to build a harmonious life, a bridge of dialogue and efforts to interpret doctrine is needed to create a spirit of appreciation amid different forms and religious expressions. The study is qualitative research in philosophy which examines the nature of the divinity of Vaiṣṇava and the meaning of the doctrine of the divinity of Vaiṣṇava by the Maha Warga Bhujangga Waisnawa in Bali. This research is also an effort to bridge the knowledge of Vaiṣṇava divinity philosophy, which developed in the great Hindu civilization in India and Indonesia, which was built in the religious discipline of Visnu-Bhujangga Waisnawa worshipers. Bali has an old Vaisnava group inherited from the past that combines devotional service and mature philosophy. In the Hindu tradition, philosophy is essential and even strengthens the position of religion or belief. From a Hindu perspective, the Ṛgveda, the oldest religious literature in the world, together with the main Upaniṣads containing philosophical and religious thought, has provided the basis for developing philosophical and religious systems. The Hindu  thinkers after Sankara built their philosophical system known as Bhakti-Vedānta or philosophy combining it with a thick system of devotional service, known as Vaiṣṇava philosophy. The intellectual spirit combined with the devotional movement builds its strength in the body of Sanatana Dharma and has a significant influence on the survival and revival of Hinduism. The Vaiṣṇava system holds that revelation and reason support each other, Vedānta is called theo-philosophy. Understanding God at the level of nature encourages thinking of respect for differences, the spirit of unity, and not fighting over differences in doctrine and different concepts. Dialogue in the realm of philosophy and theology will encourage a harmonious and mutually respectful life. This study concludes that the divine doctrine for Maha Warga Bhujangga Vaishnava is to live Vishnu at the same level of the essence as Brahman. Brahman is the highest reality, the God of religion, and the highest object of worship.