Periya Purana
Exploring the Divine Lives of the Nayanars in Tamil Shaivism
Introduction:
The Periya Purana, also known as the Tiruttontarpuranam, holds a significant place in Tamil Shaivism as a revered scripture that narrates the lives and miraculous deeds of the 63 Nayanars. Written in Tamil, the Periya Purana celebrates the devotion, divine experiences, and spiritual journeys of these great saints who dedicated their lives to the worship of Lord Shiva. This article aims to provide a brief overview of the Periya Purana, its historical context, and its profound influence on the followers of Tamil Shaivism.
Historical Background and Significance :
The Periya Purana is an important religious text in Tamil Nadu, South India, deeply rooted in the Bhakti tradition. It was composed by Sekkizhar, a revered saint-poet and disciple of Nambi Andar Nambi, during the 12th century CE. The Periya Purana holds immense cultural and spiritual significance as it highlights the lives and devotion of the Nayanars, who played a pivotal role in shaping the religious landscape of Tamil Nadu.
Overview of the Nayanars :
The Nayanars were a group of 63 ardent devotees of Lord Shiva who lived between the 6th and 8th centuries CE. They hailed from various walks of life, including kings, saints, farmers, artisans, and outcasts, united by their unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva. The Periya Purana provides individual biographies of each Nayanar, chronicling their divine experiences, their unwavering faith, and the miracles they performed through their devotion.
Devotional Miracles and Divine Experiences :
The Periya Purana is replete with accounts of miracles and divine experiences attributed to the Nayanars. These accounts portray the Nayanars’ deep spiritual connection with Lord Shiva, their unwavering faith, and their selfless devotion. The Purana describes their acts of sacrifice, renunciation, and divine intervention, which showcased their devotion and brought about profound transformations in their lives and the lives of others.
Teachings and Philosophy :
Beyond narrating the extraordinary lives of the Nayanars, the Periya Purana imparts profound spiritual teachings and philosophical insights. It emphasizes the importance of surrender, love, and devotion in attaining union with Lord Shiva. The Purana highlights the timeless principles of Shaivism, including the concepts of bhakti (devotion), karma (action), dharma (righteousness), and moksha (liberation). It inspires readers to cultivate devotion, embrace moral values, and lead a life centered on spiritual pursuits.
Cultural and Artistic Influence :
The Periya Purana has played a vital role in shaping Tamil culture, literature, and art forms. Its vibrant narratives and devotional poetry have inspired countless poets, musicians, and artists over the centuries. The Purana has been the source of inspiration for bhajan (devotional song) traditions, dance forms like Bharatanatyam, and the vibrant Bhakti movement in Tamil Nadu. It continues to be recited, celebrated, and revered in temples, homes, and cultural festivals across the region.
Conclusion:
The Periya Purana stands as a testament to the profound devotion and spiritual journey of the Nayanars, the revered saints of Tamil Shaivism. Through its rich narratives, divine experiences, and philosophical teachings, the Purana serves as a guiding light for devotees seeking inspiration, transformation, and union with Lord Shiva. The Periya Purana’s enduring legacy continues to inspire generations, fostering deep devotion, and preserving the vibrant tradition of Tamil Shaivism.
Editor – Kaalchakra Team
[ Note – Before Concluding anything as a Finale, Please Go through Original Scriptures of Vaidik Literature Written in Sanskrit and Also with Meaning of That time of Language. Because English is a Limited language to Explaining the Deeper Knowledge of Vaidik Kaal. ]