Miscellaneous - Religion   

Spirit of service

CHENNAI: The exclusive bond that is developed between the Lord and His devotees is explicit in the lives of the Sivan Adiyars (devotees of Siva). They exemplify the truth that sincerity and humility are the two facets of devotion. Beneath their outward identifiable marks (rudraksha beads, sacred ash and matted hair) is discernible innate heroism and extreme selflessness transcending social and political barriers.

The Periyapuranam describes the many ways in which worship of Siva was practised and popularised. There were no caste restrictions and kings, soldiers, merchants, fishermen, and humble labourers came together under the Lord's reign where single-minded devotion to Siva was predominant. An impeccable integrity governed every aspect of their lives. All this fostered mutual regard, respect and adoration amongst them.

While service to Siva is considered sacred, greater value is placed on service to His devotees, for the pride and satisfaction experienced when serving the servants of the Lord is much greater, said Sri K. Sivakumar in a lecture.

Saint Sundaramurthy, who, it is believed, had the unique privilege of enjoying a special friendship with Lord Siva, wished to serve those who worshipped the Lord with utmost devotion. He keeps this remarkable spirit of camaraderie alive, as is evident in the hymn Thiru-thondar Thokai, a synoptic eulogy to the sixty-three Nayanmars whose intense devotion to Siva remains unparalleled.

The Lord's deep concern for His devotees is the inspiring force behind this spirit of service. He is always ready to serve His devotees if only they place unflinching faith in Him.Since every devout saint knows that He resides in His true devotees, the tendency to serve the Thondars becomes automatic. When the devotees are worshipped, the worship reaches the Lord.

The strain of humility is present because the devotees are honest about their inadequacy and their undeserving state. They acknowledge God's boundless compassion that has sought them while accepting it is God's duty to grace His devotees. This conduct stresses that one should not bear enmity if one is to strive for release from births.

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