Smartism Faith ID

An Introduction to Smartism

Smartism is an ancient yet progressive sect within Hinduism that centers around the worship of five primary deities: Vishnu, Shiva, Shakti, Ganesh, and Surya. This sub-tradition is also occasionally referred to as 'Panchopasana' or 'five venerations'. The Smarta tradition is known for its flexibility and openness, prioritizing personal spirituality over rigid dogma.

Origins and Development

Smartism is traditionally understood to have been founded by the sage Adi Shankara, an influential figure in Hindu philosophy during the 8th century AD. Under Shankara's influence, emphasis shifted from the sacrificial rituals of the Vedic tradition to philosophical contemplation and meditation on the absolute reality or Brahman.

Theological Tenets of Smartism

Smartism incorporates doctrinal elements from several other Hindu traditions. For example, it embraces the Advaita Vedanta's concept of Brahman, viewing the ultimate reality as formless, infinite, and beyond human comprehension. This divine reality manifests itself in the form of numerous gods and goddesses, all of whom are ultimately expressions of the same absolute truth.

Practices and Traditions

In Smartism, devotees are free to choose whichever deity they wish to worship. Some may distribute their devotion equally among the five main deities, while others might focus mostly on one deity, regarding the others as alternate forms of the same divine reality. In practical terms, this makes Smartism one of the most individualistic and flexible traditions within Hinduism.

The Smarta tradition also encourages followers to perform their dharma or duties faithfully, to strive for spiritual knowledge, to meditate on the divine reality, and to strive for detachment from worldly desires.

Modern-Day Smartism

Smartism is widely practiced today, particularly in Southern India. The Smarta approach of choosing one's own deity and interpreting scriptures personally continues to appeal to many contemporary Hindus, for whom religious flexibility is a matter of both personal faith and philosophical conviction. At the same time, the teachings of Adi Shankara and the philosophical insights of the Advaita Vedanta continue to resonate with many seekers of spiritual truth.