ABSTRACT
Vi$~u points in one direction and the Bhiigavata in another, and both directions have found acceptance within Vai~l).avism. This final chapter will begin by looking at the answers which all three texts give to this question, particularly in relation to the three words which the
Vi$~u and the Bhiigavata use to express the Supreme Reality: brahman, paramiitman and bhagaviin. Then Kr~l).a's relation to the other avatiiras will be examined, both to the figures found in the avatiira lists generally and to his brother in particular. Last of all, the integrity and creativity of these texts will be reconsidered.
