奎师那资料汇编（英文版）

This excerpt from Krishna: A Sourcebook, edited by Edwin F. Bryant, compiles diverse perspectives on Krishna, highlighting his evolution from archaeological evidence and early legends mentioned in Buddhist and Jain texts to his central role as the Supreme Personal Being in various devotional traditions. The sourcebook explores the development of the bhakti (devotion) path, asserting its importance as the highest form of yoga and human existence, particularly in the Bhagavad Gita and the three primary texts detailing Krishna’s early life: the Harivamsha, Vishnu Purana, and Bhagavata Purana. Crucially, the text delves into regional and theological interpretations of Krishna, ranging from Advaita Vedanta's view of him as the Supreme Brahman in human form to the Gaudiya Vaishnava school's focus on a passionate, emotional relationship with him and his consort Radha, often emphasizing his androgynous qualities and the power of chanting his Holy Name.