In Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, devotion plays a crucial role in the path towards liberation or moksha. This school of thought, founded by Ramanuja, emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with the divine and views devotion as a means to attain ultimate union with the divine.

According to Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, the ultimate reality is Brahman, the all-pervading and supreme consciousness. However, this Brahman is not a distant and impersonal entity, but rather a loving and compassionate deity who is accessible through devotion. Ramanuja believed that through sincere devotion, one can experience the divine presence and develop a deep connection with Brahman.

Devotion, or Bhakti, is seen as a powerful tool to overcome the limitations of the human mind and ego, and to cultivate a sense of surrender and humility towards the divine. This surrender is not a passive resignation, but an active and loving surrender, where one offers their thoughts, actions, and emotions to the divine. This surrender is seen as the key to breaking free from the cycle of birth and death, and attaining moksha.

In Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, devotion is not limited to mere rituals and external practices, but it is an inner attitude of love, reverence, and service towards the divine. It is believed that through devotion, one can purify their mind and heart, and develop qualities such as compassion, kindness, and selflessness. These qualities are essential for spiritual growth and ultimately lead to the realization of the oneness of the individual soul with Brahman.

Ramanuja also emphasized the importance of a guru or a spiritual teacher in the path of devotion. A guru is seen as a guide who can help the disciple to develop a deep and meaningful relationship with the divine. Through the guru's teachings and guidance, the disciple can cultivate the right attitude towards devotion and overcome any obstacles in their spiritual journey.

In conclusion, devotion plays a central role in Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, as it is seen as a means to attain union with the divine and break free from the cycle of birth and death. It is not just a practice, but an inner attitude of love, surrender, and service towards the divine. Through devotion, one can purify their mind, develop positive qualities, and ultimately realize the ultimate truth of oneness with Brahman.