Rasa Theology

Rupa Goswami, the leading disciple of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, dissected the vast theology of rasa (loving relish) and systematically presented it in his masterpiece known as the Bhakti-rasamrita Sindhu, literally translated as the ‘Nectarean ocean of devotional sentiments.’ Drawing from the Sanskrit dramaturgy of Bharata Muni, Rupa Goswami analyses the subtle loving feelings that souls experience in a variety of relationships with Krishna. Just as a full meal contains salty, spicy, pungent and sweet preparations, all combining to give a complete experience, so the various tastes of rasa create a unique spiritual experience. Rupa Goswami poetically compares the devotees of the Lord to sharks (makara) who swim deep in this ocean of love, oblivious to the small rivers of spiritual side benefits (like liberation from suffering). Whilst swimming in the oceanic relationship with Krishna, they find the most valuable of jewels in the depths of the seabed.

The love experienced between the living entity and God can take many forms, each with unique intensities. To enter such exchanges, one must first become entirely averse to the allure of material pleasures, which block one’s ability to enter the arena of pure spiritual love. In the early stages of spirituality, one may gravitate towards an impersonal conception of the Supreme. God is seen as an energy, consciousness or all-pervading influence. True love, however, is experienced between persons, where there is opportunity for interaction, exchange and an active reciprocation. Though the Lord is the complete whole, both personal and impersonal, His Supreme personal feature invites a more intimate relationship where deeper emotions can be experienced.

The Personality of Godhead manifests Himself in a variety of forms. Vishnu is God at work – the personality who creates and maintains the entire cosmos. Krishna, on the other hand, is God at home – the personality who is more concerned with intimate relationships and loving interactions. Thus, according to rasa theology, a more intimate connection can be established with Krishna. Amongst devotees of Krishna, there are also variations. Some focus on His majestic qualities and awe-inspiring opulence and power (aisvarya). Their understanding gives rise to a mood of respect and reverence, which invariably creates a distance too. Those who focus on Krishna’s sweetness (madhurya), captured by His irresistible beauty and charm, transcend such barriers and enter into closer exchanges.

Of such confidential devotees, there are those who are in union with Krishna and experience the ecstasy of meeting Him face-to-face (sambhoga). Other devotees, however, are subjected to separation from Krishna (vipralambha). Their desperation and anticipation to meet Him creates a heightened emotional churning and unrelenting yearning. The gopis of Vrindavana are the prime example of this. Their feelings of transcendental separation are considered the epitome of divine love for God [].