The Sahajiya Cult, which can be traced back to 10^th and 11^th centuries, is usually associated with:

The correct answer is 1.

Key Points

The Sahajiya Cult, which can be traced back to the 10th and 11th centuries, is usually associated with Early Bhakti Traditions. 

• Here's a detailed explanation of the Sahajiya Cult:
  • Origin and Timeframe:
    • The Sahajiya movement originated in medieval India, particularly in Bengal, during the 10th and 11th centuries.
    • The term "Sahajiya" can be translated to mean "those who follow the easy path" or "practitioners of the spontaneous way."
  • Association with Bhakti Traditions:
    • The Sahajiya cult is closely associated with the Bhakti movement, which emphasized devotion (bhakti) to a personal god or goddess, often in a more emotional and personalized manner.
    • Bhakti saints like Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and his followers played a significant role in popularizing the Sahajiya philosophy.
  • Philosophical Perspective:
    • The Sahajiya philosophy focused on the idea of experiencing a direct and intimate connection with the divine through spontaneous and emotional devotion.
    • It rejected formal rituals and external practices in favor of a heartfelt and personal relationship with the deity.
  • Role of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu:
    • Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a prominent saint of the Bhakti movement, is often considered a central figure in the Sahajiya tradition.
    • His teachings emphasized the importance of chanting the holy names of God, especially the Hare Krishna mantra, as a means to attain spiritual realization.