Bhaktic+Cults

Spurred by the spread of Islam (founded by the prophet Muhammed) to the Southeast, bhaktic cults were a more active form of devotion to the gods and goddesses. Once the Hindus realized that Islam could not be absorbed into the Indian culture, they remphasized bhaktic cults (which were effective in neutralizing the spread of Buddhism) to attempt to prevent the spread of Islam to its (Hinduism's) followers. Vishnu and Shiva were the most popularly followed. Bhaktic cults were created to be particularly appealing to all people, men and women of all castes (even untouchables). The gurus and bhaktic mystics stressed the importance of strong emotional bonds to individual gods and goddesses, the objects of intense devotion. Practices included chants, dances, and even drugs were used to reach a state of "spiritual intoxication" that was the key to an individual's salvation. Once one has achieved this state of bond to his/her god/goddess as well as the "spiritual intoxication" it was said that all past sins were washed away and all caste divisions were removed. This was especially effective in attracting the lower caste members, which Islam's concept of equality had originally interested. Bhaktic cults slowed Islam's spread in South Asia.

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