The Monkey-Cat Debate in Śrīvaiṣṇavism

Conceptualizing Grace in Medieval India

Authors

  • Thomas A. Forsthoefel

Keywords:

Śrīvaiṣṇavism, monkey-cat debate, grace, soteriology, Rāmānuja, Vedānta Deśika, Piḷḷai Lokācārya, Vaṭakalai, Teṅkalai, Viśiṣṭādvaita

Abstract

The article "The Monkey-Cat Debate in Śrīvaiṣṇavism: Conceptualizing Grace in Medieval India" by Thomas A. Forsthoefel and Patricia Y. Mumme explores theological tensions in Śrīvaiṣṇava thought regarding divine grace and human effort. It analyzes the doctrinal divide between the Vaṭakalai and Teṅkalai sects through the metaphor of a monkey (symbolizing personal effort) versus a kitten (symbolizing total dependence). Through engagement with classical texts and key figures like Rāmānuja, Piḷḷai Lokācārya, and Vedānta Deśika, the article highlights how differing views on agency and surrender shape the soteriology within the tradition.

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Published

1999-06-20

Issue

Vol. 8 No. 1 (1999): Controversies (Fall)

Section

Articles