Could the Swaminarayan Saṃpradāya Be Considered a Vaishnava Lineage?

Abstract

This article investigates whether the Swaminarayan Saṃpradāya, founded by Swaminarayan (1781-1830 CE) in 19th-century Gujarat, can be considered a Vaiṣṇava lineage. While acknowledging its bhakti-based nature and historical connections, the author argues for its distinct identity within Hinduism. Similarities with Vaiṣṇavism include Swaminarayan's initiation into the Uddhava Saṃpradāya, his placement within Ramanujacharya's lineage, the adoption of Vaiṣṇava devotional practices (e.g., ārati, pūjā, ekādaśī, Krishna worship), and the acceptance of eight Vaiṣṇava scriptures and Viśiṣṭādvaita philosophy as authoritative. However, the article highlights fundamental distinctions, primarily Swaminarayan's unique five-entity ontological system, comprising Parabrahman, Akṣarabrahman, māyā, īśvaras, and jīvas. This system posits īśvaras (including all avatāras) as subordinate to the supreme Parabrahman, and Akṣarabrahman as a distinct, superior entity, leading to a unique soteriological path centered on achieving qualitative oneness with Akṣarabrahman to serve Parabrahman. These theological and ontological differences, the author concludes, establish the Swaminarayan Saṃpradāya as a correlated yet independent Hindu tradition.