Social Thoughts in Devotional Literature

பக்தி இலக்கியங்களில் சமூகச் சிந்தனைகள்

Abstract

The rich tradition of Tamil Bhakti literature is profoundly rooted in the principles of devotion and social development. At the forefront of this movement were the Arulalars, who guided the people towards a life imbued with the essence of the Tamil mantra "Yanperta Inpam Peruka Evvaikam" from the Thirumanthiram (85). This paper explores the significance of the Arulalars’ teachings, particularly the phrases "Arkum Idumin Avarivar Ennanmin" and "Anbe Shivam - Makkatpaniye Mahesan Pani," emphasizing the inseparable link between spirituality, social welfare, and communal harmony. The transformative power of divine revelation, encapsulated in classical Tamil literature, serves as a guiding light in the quest for spiritual salvation while fostering an inclusive society. The Tamil spiritual landscape is characterized by a rich interweaving of devotion, social context, and intellectual heritage. Central to this landscape is the movement led by the Arulalars, esteemed religious figures who dedicated their lives to imparting wisdom and guidance for spiritual and communal wellbeing. Their teachings resonate deeply with the Tamil mantra "Yanperta Inpam Peruka Evvaikam," which emphasizes the importance of personal and collective elevation through devotion and righteousness. By interpreting the divine through a lens of social development, the Arulalars sought to inspire individuals to cultivate both their spiritual and worldly lives.