Bhakti movement in henotheistic context where the individual is encouraged to discover his own definition and sense of God. The "Bhagavad Gita", a post-Vedic scripture composed in 5th to 2nd century BCE, introduces "bhakti marga" (the path of faith/devotion) as one of three ways to spiritual freedom and release, the other two being "karma marga" (the path of works) and "jnana marga" (the path of knowledge). In verses 6.31 through 6.47 of the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna as an avatar of deity Vishnu, describes "bhakti yoga" and loving devotion, as one of the several paths to the highest spiritual attainments. Shandilya and Narada
Bhagavad Gita "bhakti" effort is assisted with "right knowledge" and dedication to one's "dharma". Theologian Catherine Cornille writes, "The text [of the "Gita"] offers a survey of the different possible disciplines for attaining liberation through knowledge ("Jnana"), action ("karma"), and loving devotion to God ("bhakti"), focusing on the latter as both the easiest and the highest path to salvation." According to M. R. Sampatkumaran, a "Bhagavad Gita" scholar, the "Gita" message is that mere knowledge of the scriptures cannot lead to final release, but "devotion, meditation, and worship" are essential." The "Gita" likely spawned a "powerful devotionalism" movement, states Fowler, because the