A Structure of Mystical Experience in the Vaishnava Vedānta (Based on Yamunacarya’s Strotra-ratna)

Abstract

The paper deals with one of the most influential texts in history of Vishishtadvaita. The poetical hymns of Yamunacarya (916–1041) or “Stotra-ratna” consist of 62–65 verses, devoted to Vishnu. The main theme of this work is prapatti or the absolute surrender to God. The eminent role and place of “Stotra-ratna” in the history of vishishtadvaita literature is due to the fact that these hymns were a sample for two hymnal traditions of this philosophical school. The basic ideas of vishishtadvaita (such as an understanding Vishnu as the principal deity; Bhakti as the main method of salvation etc.) were expressed in vaishnava hymns beginning with “Stotraratna” of Yamunacarya, who sais about his inability to live without God.