Miscellaneous - Religion   

Communion with God

CHENNAI : Realised souls are born time and again in this world to re-establish the eternal and universal values of life and achieve certain specific purposes ordained by God. The advent of the Nayanamars is significant for apart from strengthening the roots of devotion and faith in the common man, they re-established Tamil culture and Saiva ideals on a firm footing at a time when there was a serious threat from the more influential forces of Buddhism and Jainism. Being endowed with musical genius, they were able to combine music, poetry and faith in the most extraordinary manner that till date has continued to keep the devotional spark alive.

The devotional hymns of Gnanasambandar, Tirunavukkarasar and Sundaramurthy, collectively called the "Thevaram", express the Vedic truths in simple Tamil and the language of devotion is highly inspirational. These saints travelled extensively around the present day Tamil Nadu, visiting the many Siva shrines and singing the glory of the deities in these temples. Sri R. Selvaganapathy pointed out in a discourse that Sekkizhar's Periyapuranam besides chronicling the lives of the Nayanmars highlights the inspirational quality of their devotion that gives ample evidence of Lord Siva's infinite grace. It is shown that true devotion alone matters. One can easily approach God through sincere devotion and nothing can stand in the way of devotee and God. These saints had the privilege of direct and personal communion with the Lord.

It is believed that Gnanasambandar's first song was sung on the deity at Seerkhazhi when he was a mere child. Legend has it that he was inspired and endowed with wisdom from the Divine Couple Siva and Parvati.

Tirunavukkarasar's hymns are religious and deeply philosophical. The soul-stirring hymns easily draw one to contemplate on the glory and infinite mercy of the Lord. When caught in worldly life one tends to seek material benefits and lose track of the purpose of life. One should learn to be thankful to God for the benefits He bestows on us. It is one's duty to pay obeisance to Him and not ask for worldly benefits.

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