What are the compositions of Saint Dnyaneshwar?
Saint Dnyaneshwar, also known as Jnaneshwar, was a 13th-century Indian Marathi saint, philosopher, and yogi of the Nath tradition. He is renowned for his profound spiritual insights and literary works. Here are his major compositions:
1. Dnyaneshwari (Jnaneshwari)
-
Description: This is Dnyaneshwar's magnum opus, a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita. Written in the Marathi language, it made the philosophical and spiritual teachings of the Gita accessible to the common people.
-
Significance: It is celebrated for its poetic beauty, philosophical depth, and its ability to convey complex ideas in a simple and understandable manner. It is considered a foundational text of the Varkari tradition.
2. Amrutanubhav
-
Description: A philosophical treatise consisting of around 800 verses, dealing with metaphysics and spiritual experience.
-
Significance: It explores the nature of reality, the self, and the divine, offering insights into Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
3. Changdev Pasashti
-
Description: A collection of 65 verses addressed to the yogi Changdev Maharaj.
-
Significance: It contains spiritual advice and teachings, emphasizing the importance of self-realization and devotion.
4. Haripath
-
Description: A collection of twenty-eight abhangas (devotional poems) praising Lord Vithal (Vitthala), a form of Krishna worshipped in Maharashtra.
-
Significance: These verses are widely recited by devotees and are central to the daily prayers of the Varkari sect.
5. Abhangas and other poems
-
Description: Dnyaneshwar is also credited with composing numerous other abhangas, which are devotional poems expressing love for God and moral teachings.
-
Significance: These poems reflect his deep devotion and spiritual insights and are cherished by devotees.