The Hierarchy of Deities in Madhva’s Âgbhâṣya

Authors

  • Valerie Stoker

Keywords:

Madhva, Dvaita Vedānta, devatātāratamya, Vaiṣṇavism, Ṛgveda, Ṛgveda commentary, canonical hierarchy, Vedic exegesis, Valerie Stoker, Hindu theology, divine ontology

Abstract

The article "The Hierarchy of Deities in Madhva’s Âgbhâṣya" by Valerie Stoker explores Madhva’s doctrine of devatātāratamya—an unchanging divine hierarchy central to his philosophical and theological interpretation of the Vedas. Through analysis of Madhva’s commentaries, particularly on the Ṛgveda, the article examines how this structure supports a Vaiṣṇava framework, redefines canonical orthodoxy, and integrates post-Vedic sectarian texts. It further considers how Madhva’s system reflects historical contexts, engages competing hermeneutic traditions, and ensures Vedic relevance for 13th-century devotional practice.

Published

2001-06-20