A Study of Whether Hindu Religious Ideas Are Depicted in the Bhaktishataka

Abstract

The śataka kavya literature holds a significant position in the history of Sanskrit literature. śataka Granthas refer to books composed of one hundred or fewer verses that are not connected with a subsequent verse. Sri Ramachandra Bharati, a Brahmin scholar, is the composer of the Bhaktishataka. This remarkable poem consists of 107 verses and is highly regarded as an exceptional century poem. Through the virtues of Buddha portrayed in this work, the reader is not only enlightened with a pure mind but also filled with devotion, leading to spiritual perfection. The poet's verse proposal, allegorical presentation, and unwavering devotion to the Buddha all exemplify his repeated seeking of refuge in the Buddha. He holds the Buddha in the highest regard, considering him as his revered teacher and expressing worship from all directions. With immense devotion, the poet mentions the places where the Buddha resided and the paths he traversed countless times, emphasizing the profound significance of these sacred locations. Additionally, this devotion is further indicated in the poet's expressions throughout the text. The primary objective of this research is to investigate the representation of Hindu religious concepts in the Bhakti śhataka, a collection that expresses deep devotion to Gautama Buddha. The study aims to ascertain whether the Bhakti śhataka reflects Hindu religious ideas. The qualitative method was employed as the chosen research approach. Among all the verses, eleven of them revolve around the concept of God. Sri Ramachandra Bharati, the author of Bhaktiśathaka, displayed profound devotion to the Buddha, sharing the same main goal as the enlightened one.