Understanding Shankardeva and His Teachings

Shankardeva was a prominent saint, scholar, social-religious reformer, and figure of importance in the cultural and religious history of Assam, India. He is credited with founding the Eka Sarana Dharma, a Vaishnavite movement that had a profound impact on Assamese society in the late fifteenth century. His teachings are central to this religious tradition.

Shankardeva's Contribution to Vaishnavism

Shankardeva propagated a form of Vaishnavism that emphasized devotion to Lord Krishna, particularly through the chanting of His names (nama) and singing of hymns (kirtana). This movement stressed devotion (bhakti) as the sole means of salvation, rejecting elaborate rituals and caste distinctions. His teachings form the bedrock of Vaishnavism in Assam.

Identifying the Name for Shankardeva's Teachings

The question asks for the specific name by which the teachings of Shankardeva, the main propagator of Vaishnavism in the late fifteenth century, are addressed. While his movement is broadly part of Vaishnavism and specifically known as Eka Sarana Dharma, the core teachings are also referred to by a particular name among the given options.

Let's examine the options provided:

1. Vallabh Dharma: This refers to the teachings of Vallabhacharya, another prominent Vaishnava philosopher, but his movement is distinct from Shankardeva's and centered in other parts of India.
2. Krishna Dharma: While Shankardeva's teachings are centered on devotion to Krishna, "Krishna Dharma" is a general term and not the specific name given to his distinct religious system.
3. Guru Sandesh: This literally means "Guru's message" and is a general term that could apply to any guru's teachings, but it is not the specific historical name associated with Shankardeva's movement.
4. Bhagavati Dharma: This is the name often used to refer to the religious path or the teachings propagated by Shankardeva. It signifies a religion focused on devotion to Bhagavan (Lord Krishna).

Historical sources and tradition confirm that Shankardeva's distinct Vaishnava movement and its teachings are specifically known as Bhagavati Dharma, named after the prominence of the scripture Bhagavata Purana in his system and the focus on devotion to Bhagavan.

Therefore, the teachings of Shankardeva are addressed by the name Bhagavati Dharma in the late fifteenth century context.

Conclusion

Based on historical context and the specifics of Shankardeva's religious reforms and teachings in Assam, the term Bhagavati Dharma accurately describes the name associated with his propagation of Vaishnavism.

The final answer is Bhagavati Dharma.