Alvars

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The Alvars (aːɻʋaːr) were the twelve saints, who during the early medieval period of Tamil history (between the seventh and the tenth centuries CE) helped revive Hinduism through their devotional hymns. They were Vaishnavites (worshipers of Lord Vishnu). They included a woman (Andal). The collection of their hymns are known as Divya Prabhandham.

The Bhakti literature that sprang from these Alvars has contributed to the establishment and sustenance of a culture that broke away from the ritual-oriented Vedic religion and rooted itself in Devotion as the only path for salvation. In addition they helped to make the Tamil religious life independent of a knowledge of Sanskrit.

1 Legacy
2 Alvars
3 See also
4 References
5 External links

[edit] Legacy

The twelve Alvars, the last of whom lived in the 9th century CE – were all inspired and ardent devotees who transmitted their divine infatuation to millions. They have left behind an imperishable legacy of devotional Tamil poetry - naalaayira Divya Prabhandham (considered to be the essence of the Vedas, in Tamil, and all in praise of Lord Vishnu). These have been rarely equalled either in quantity or in quality ever after.

The one held in greatest esteem among the Alvars is Nammalvar. He lived during the seventh century CE. His contribution to the four thousand prabandhams is as many as 1352. His hymns are considered by the Vaishnavites to contain the essense of the Vedas. His works - Thiru Aasiriyam, Thiru Virudham, Periya Thiruvandhadhi corresspond to the Yajur, Rig and Atarvana veda respectively. His other work Periya Thirumozhi (Divine words) is the one of the key works of Vaishnavism.

Periyalvar delighted in worshipping Vishnu as mother, nurse, devotee and lady love. Andal, who grew up in Periyalvar's home, is attributed the Tiruppaavai, a most beautiful collection of 30 verses giving expression to the purest love of God.