Question

what is bhakti?
a. a type of devotional art that depicts the buddha on large hand-woven panels
b. a hindu manuscript
c. a hindu devotional movement
d. a scroll-like painting of hindu gods

please select the best answer from the choices provided

a
b
c
d

Explanation:

Define the term bhakti

The word bhakti is derived from the Sanskrit root bhaj, meaning "to share, to participate, to belong to, or to love." In South Asian religious history, it refers to a personal, intense devotion and love toward a personal deity.

Identify the historical context

The Bhakti movement was a significant religious and social revolution in medieval Hinduism that emphasized a direct, emotional connection between the devotee and God (such as Vishnu, Shiva, or Devi), bypassing complex rituals and priestly intermediaries.

Evaluate the given options

• Option a describes Tibetan thangkas or Buddhist textile art, not bhakti.
• Option b refers to a physical text, whereas bhakti is a practice and movement.
• Option c correctly identifies bhakti as a Hindu devotional movement.
• Option d describes specific narrative scroll paintings (like Patachitra or Phad), not the concept of bhakti itself.

Answer:

• a. a type of devotional art that depicts the Buddha on large hand-woven panels
• b. a Hindu manuscript
• c. a Hindu devotional movement (Correct answer)
• d. a scroll-like painting of Hindu gods