Bhakti rasa.

 In a spiritual or devotional context, bhavam refers to a state of mind, emotion, or attitude, especially in relation to devotion, meditation, or spiritual practice. In Indian philosophy, particularly in Bhakti Yoga and Rasa Theory, different states of bhavam are described. Here are the primary types:

1. Sthayi Bhavam (Permanent Emotion)

The dominant or permanent emotional state that remains in the devotee.

In bhakti, it is usually Bhakti Sthayi Bhavam (permanent state of devotion).

Examples: Shanta (peaceful), Dasya (servitude), Sakhya (friendship), Vatsalya (parental affection), Madhurya (divine love).

2. Vibhava Bhavam (Determinants)

The cause or stimulant that evokes a particular emotion.

It could be a deity's form, qualities, stories, or the devotee's own remembrance.

Example: Listening to Krishna's leelas may awaken Madhurya Bhavam.

3. Anubhava Bhavam (Consequent Expressions)

Physical or emotional expressions that follow the internal experience of devotion.

Example: Tears of joy, trembling, or goosebumps during intense devotion.

4. Sanchari Bhavam (Transient Emotions)

Temporary emotional states that accompany the primary emotion.

Example: A devotee may experience Joy, Sorrow, or Astonishment momentarily while the underlying devotion remains.

5. Satvika Bhavam (Involuntary Divine Emotions)

Pure, spontaneous emotions that manifest without conscious effort.

Example: Devotees like Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa exhibited Satvika Bhavam through uncontrollable tears or blissful laughter.

6. Bhakti Bhavam (Devotional States)

Specifically in the path of devotion, bhakti bhavam is classified into five major types:

Shanta Bhavam - Peaceful reverence.

Dasya Bhavam - Servitude, like Hanuman towards Rama.

Sakhya Bhavam - Friendship, like Arjuna with Krishna.

Vatsalya Bhavam - Parental love, like Yashoda with Krishna.

Madhurya Bhavam - Loving devotion, like Radha’s divine love for Krishna.

7. Rasa Bhavam (Aesthetic Emotions)

Described in Natya Shastra by Bharata Muni, these are artistic expressions that evoke emotional responses.

The nine Rasas (Navarasa) are: Shringara (Love), Hasya (Joy), Karuna (Compassion), Raudra (Anger), Veera (Courage), Bhayanaka (Fear), Bibhatsa (Disgust), Adbhuta (Wonder), and Shanta (Peace).

8. Guna Bhavam (Qualitative State)

Based on the three Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas) that govern human behavior:

Sattvika Bhavam - Pure, calm, and selfless state.

Rajasika Bhavam - Passionate, restless, or ego-driven state.

Tamasika Bhavam - Ignorant, lazy, or destructive state.

9. Jnana Bhavam (State of Knowledge)

A state of realization and wisdom.

Through the path of Jnana Yoga, one attains Advaita Bhavam — the realization of the unity of all existence.

Understanding and experiencing these various bhavams is an essential aspect of spiritual growth, ultimately leading to Para Bhakti (supreme devotion) or Jnana (self-realization).