The bhakti distinction between divine love and possessive attachment, essential for loving freely within healthy boundaries.
Prema is the Sanskrit concept of pure, selfless love that exists in bhakti tradition as distinct from kama (desire) and possessiveness. Mirabai's devotion to Krishna embodied prema—a love that sought union without demanding exclusivity or control. In Boundaries in Love, prema teaches us to distinguish between genuine affection and the need to own or control another person. This framework helps practitioners recognize when love becomes conditional, transactional, or driven by fear of abandonment. By cultivating prema, we learn to love others as sovereign beings rather than extensions of ourselves, creating space for authentic connection while maintaining clear personal boundaries. This concept directly addresses the tension between intimacy and independence.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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