About Us

 

Editorial Mission and Scope Statement

for

The Journal of Vaishnava Studies

Mission Statement

The Journal of Vaishnava Studies (JVS) is the premier academic forum for scholarly exploration of Vaishnavism in its authentic and orthodox forms. Rooted in the teachings of the four primary sampradayas—Sri, Brahma, Rudra, and Kumara—our mission is to advance rigorous academic discourse on Vaishnava theology, philosophy, and practice while preserving the tradition's doctrinal integrity.

Scope and Focus

Academic Coverage

  • Theology and Philosophy
  • Historical Studies
  • Literary Analysis
  • Ritual and Liturgical Studies
  • Art and Aesthetics
  • Social and Cultural Impact
  • Comparative Religious Studies

Editorial Philosophy

The journal maintains a clear distinction between recognized Vaishnava traditions and syncretic movements. While we do not endorse perspectives that deviate from Vaishnavism's essential theistic foundations, we welcome scholarly analysis that examines such interpretations in relation to traditional Vaishnava teachings.

Editorial Standards

Scholarly Requirements

  • Rigorous peer review process
  • Citation of primary texts (Bhagavad-gita, Srimad Bhagavatam, etc.)
  • Engagement with established secondary texts and scholarship
  • Critical analysis and methodological rigor
  • Clear articulation of theoretical frameworks

Balanced Representation

Articles addressing controversial topics or critiques of Vaishnava traditions must:

  • Present balanced perspectives
  • Include traditional responses and contextual analysis
  • Demonstrate thorough engagement with primary sources
  • Avoid reductionist or sensationalist approaches

Ethical Guidelines

Academic Integrity

  • Commitment to scholarly objectivity
  • Respect for traditional interpretations
  • Accurate representation of Vaishnava doctrine
  • Recognition of sampradayic authority
  • Protection against misrepresentation

Publication Standards

  • Original research contributions
  • Methodological transparency
  • Proper attribution and citation
  • Ethical research practices
  • Clear disclosure of theoretical perspectives

Target Audience

  • Academic researchers
  • Religious studies scholars
  • Theologians and practitioners
  • Graduate students
  • Religious historians
  • Comparative religion specialists

Vision for Impact

JVS aims to:

  • Advance scholarly understanding of Vaishnavism
  • Preserve authentic theological traditions
  • Foster intellectual dialogue
  • Bridge academic and practitioner perspectives
  • Contribute to the broader field of religious studies

Submission Guidelines

Manuscripts should:

  • Demonstrate original research
  • Engage with primary texts
  • Follow academic citation standards
  • Present balanced analysis
  • Respect traditional theological frameworks
  • Contribute meaningfully to Vaishnava scholarship