Selected

Sambandar

1.001 Thiruppiramapuram (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

The Lord has an ear on which a lady’s ear-jewel is worn. He rides on a bull, having worn a spotlessly pure white crescent moon of a single phase. He smeared himself with the ash in the cremation ground which has the nature of a forest. The thief who has captivated my mind this person is really the great one who resides gladly in Piramapuram possessing greatness, where the Lord bestowed his grace on Piraman, who is seated in a (lotus) flower having petals, who bowed to him and worshipped him, in the distant past.

2

Having adorned himself with the mature shell of an aged tortoise, a young cobra and the horn of full growth of a pig. The thief who captivated my mind, having collected alms in a bowl of skull from which the flesh has completely disappeared. The great people who have learning and knowledge acquired by listening to words of wisdom worship with folded hands and praise him. This person is the Lord who rides on a bull and gladly resides in Piramapuram.

3

Having adorned a white crescent moon that gives light, on the golden matted locks of hair standing upright on which the water has spread. The thief who captivated my mind, to make the group of white and beautiful bangles, to slip off my hand. This person is truly the Lord residing gladly in Piramapuram which has a fame spread far and wide as a place which is like a seed in the world which has many holy places.

4

In addition to having discharged an arrow on the forts which delighted in flying in the sky. The thief who captivated my mind, by coming to me in order to collect alms with gladness to heart in the bright skull. In the chest comparable to the mountain where there are abundant konrai flowers and cobras which live in ant-hills desirous of them. This person is truly the Lord who resides gladly in Piramapuram and rejoices in having a lady (in the chest).

5

The Lord has a lady in the self-same form, has matted locks of hair; has hairs plaited when my friends speak about him, appreciating that he rides on a bull. The thief who captivated my mind through the means of their talk and sat in my mind making it his own place. When the blue sea covered the earth at the end of the world. The person is truly the Lord who resides gladly in Piramapuram which got the fame that it did not submerge but floated (on the water).

6

Dancing with singing Marai which is in the form of sound holding a battle-axe. The thief who captivated my mind to make the collection of white bangles worn on the forearm to slip off. This person is truly the Lord who resides gladly in Piramapuram where that famous crescent moon scatters its light here and there in the very tall natural gardens and fragrant and dark flower gardens.

7

The Lord has water (of Kankai) on his matted locks of hair, has a fire on his hand, waving the fire in order to attain greatness and wandering along with the cobra tied round the dress on the waist. The thief who captivated my mind. In the cool sea-shore garden surrounded by the back-water combining with the sea. The male swans which have beautiful feathers. This person is truly the Lord who resides gladly in Piramapuram, where (the male swans) embrace their mates.

8

Having destroyed the strength of the shoulders of the King of great Ilankai, who performed valorous deeds, which pushed out the expansive mountain (of Kailacam), the thief who captivated my mind. This person is truly the Lord who resides gladly in Piramapuram whose fame shines (forever) every time when many universal deluges occur when all things are destroyed, appear in this world where sufferings outweigh happiness.

9

Vishnu and the God who is seated in the cool lotus, having as their objects feet and forehead to find out who was the chief between them, Vishnu going down a long distance as a pig and Piraman going a long distance in the sky as a swan and abandoning their effort. Rose tall (as a column of fire) the thief who captivated my mind. This person is truly the Lord who resides in Piramapuram gladly, which was desired intensely to be worshipped by the people of this world beginning with the ladies with bright forehead.

10

Buddhists and the unfortunate Jains to slander about Siva and to speak words of similar ideas and transgress all limits of decency. The thief who captivated my mind having obtained alms. This person is truly the Lord who resides gladly in Piramapuram, and is a like a mad man to be spoken derisively by people that the act of covering his body with the skin of a rutting elephant to make it bewildered.

11

About this person who gladly resides in Piramapuram who can lead one in the path of obtaining eternal bliss, that Piramapuram which has a natural tank of lotus flowers deriving its name from Piraman who is well versed in the Vedas which has laid down many difficult ways of reaching God. The accumulated karma in several previous birth of those who are able to recite the Tamil verses which show the beautiful path; which were composed by Jnana Sambandar who realized God by fixing his mind and focussing his thoughts on him, will easily vanish.

1.021 Thirussivapuram (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Those who meditate upon Sivapuram of Siva who is seated on a good lotus flower with the idea of endowing functions pertaining to their births, to the living beings which are eminent, the tevar, etc. Who flourish in the heaven, the desirable paths, the three qualities of satya, rajas and tamas, the Vedas that deal with the flame of God, arts, the space, the air, fire, water, earth, will obtain a permanent life in the prosperous world.

2

In the earth where many mountains grow, man who follow faithfully the path laid down in the Vedas with the intention of being permanent till the end of their span of life, in the heaven of the tevar whose lives are longer, and other worlds. Those who meditate upon Sivapuram which has a fortified wall constructed with stones and which is the dwelling place of the supreme Siva who assumes the form, ari (Vishnu) who sleeps in the center of the ocean which has raging and increasing waves, being conscious of the outer world will shine with wealth.

3

The worlds beginning from this earth which is surrounded by the ocean and which is without any defect. The devas of increasing groups, other human beings and other groups of living beings. The fame of those people who worship with joined hands the city of Sivapuram made beautiful by big precious stones and which is the dwelling place of the supreme God who assumes the form of Uruttiran who is the cause for destroying them completely with that intention.

4

With the much fragrant sandalpaste, the devotees who daily worship him intentionally, with plenty of water, very bright lamps; incense, and blossomed flowers which have left the stage of buds. The beautiful city where the God dwells, who has the nature of granting higher states of existence which are without any wants. And those who meditate upon Sivapuram which has water with dams, will be the Lord of the Goddess of victory.

5

Having retained and controlled the vital breath so as to destroy the evil acts of the five senses and six enemies (the six emotions), beginning with excessive anger, with the help of meditation those whose realize always the object that exists in the lotus flower in the crown of the head which is said to have a thousand petals, and who meditate on Sivapuram on whose fortified walls clouds stay and which is the city where the supreme and great God who reaches them with his beautiful form will live as the Goddess of learning grants knowledge.

6

Those who undertake severe penance to destroy the senses that exist in the body and who conduct themselves in the proper way to be praised by the people of the worlds which have visible forms, and who have practice of chanting of Vedas and many other good arts without any faults, and those who meditate upon Sivapuram which grants the highest wealth of eternal bliss and which is the abode of the supreme Siva who thinks of those people reaching his feet.

7

The mountain meru which is in the north to make a sound resembling “gana gana” in its nail assuming a great form with excessive anger. Beautiful Ari (Vishnu) who fixed on a firm basis the earth in which many comfortable things exist, on the tip of its tusk which is on the tall and very strong face, and which resembles in shape the crescent those who meditate upon Sivapuram where Siva granted the vision of his feet when Vishnu worshipped him at this shrine will shine in this world with fame.

8

With the strength got from the grace granted by Ayan, as a result of having performed penance with great exhaustion the abode of Siva who put to use a single toe to break the crowns of Iravanan (Ravana) who set up his twenty hands to uproot the mountain, Kailas where Siva was seated. Those who meditate upon Sivapuram which is well-known in all the quarters, will live always in this fertile world.

9

When Siva appeared in a brilliant form of fire which could not be known by Ayan (Brahma), and Ari (Vishnu) who has the strong weapon of a discus. The family of those who meditate upon beautiful Sivapuram which has strong gardens and which is the city of Siva who taking pity on them became manifest with a form having a frontal eye and a neck where poison is full, when they both praised him with fear, will be eminent in this world.

10

Those who meditate on Sivapuram where good groups of devotees combine together in this world and which is the abode of the supreme God who could not be understood by the Jains who eat food in their hands who have minds of increasing evil ideas, and Buddhists who assert that characters and knowledge are not permanent and the things in this world are also such, will have beautiful bodies.

11

Those who recite the ten beneficial verses which are the words of one proficient in Tamil (i.e., (Sambandar), who is a native of the city of Cirapuram, and who worships the feet of Siva who dwells in the eminent city of Sivapuram. Will excel in all virtues when their family continues without any break, they have landed property, wealth without any wants, beautiful body, liberality without any equal, superior Goddess of victory, the fortune of being hereditary worshippers of God, all these joining them.

1.023 Thirukkoalakkaa (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

To cause the scabbard fish to jump in the sluice, the God in Kolakka where in the tank ladies dive and bathe what is the reason for assuming the form which has matted hair, crescent, smearing of holy ash and a strip of cloth used as a waist-band for securely tying the loin-cloth.

2

The God whose head is adorned by the crescent, having a lady on his half. He created in Kolakkavu a temple for the devotees to worship his feet with joined hands. He drank the poison to save the world from destruction

3

Cobra which has beautiful spots in his ornament. He has a curved crescent on his golden matted hair singing the fame of Kolakka of the perpetual youth, in a worthy manner. To cherish with love the Lord who is capable of chanting the Vedas diseases will vanish.

4

People who wish that the sins which were committed intentionally by the soul united with self-conceit, should relase their hold on you! The Lord who holds a battle-axe and who has a young deer in his beautiful hand and who has an army of demons which surround him. You live happily praising Kolakka without committing any fault.

5

Having a lady who has the gracefulness of a peacock, on his half. If one fixes his thought on Kolakka belonging to our father who burnt the acurar of three forts to perish, which has gardens where there are Indian cuckoos (Kuyil) sins will vanish.

6

You who wish destroy the karma which can ruin you! One who wears on his head fragrant konrai flowers. You live happily thinking in your mind the feet of our Lord who is in Kolakka where festivals in which flag is hoisted, are always celebrated.

7

Near of those who worship with their hands the feet of the Lord which are crowded round by anklets, who is in Kolakka where, in the gardens having shades the swans of black bees hum like the music produced in the flute. There will be no sufferings.

8

Belonging to the God who pressed down the long hands of the king of Ilankai girt by the sea of surging waves, to be fractured the karmas of those who worship in the proper manner Kolakka where musicians sing music with seven notes without any error, will leave them of their own accord.

9

One who could not be seen by Ayan who is seated in the fragrant (lotus) flowers and Vishnu, who is lying on the mighty serpent-bed the perpetual youth who kicked the God of death. You live happily by praising the feet of the God who has a bull and dwells in Kolakka

10

Those who follow the wrong ways, Jains who fill up the dirt on their bodies which they willingly accumulate, without washing it and the Buddhists who cover their bodies with robes soaked in myrtle dye if those who do not pay heed to their teachings, praise Kolakka holding it as their refuge. Their sins will vanish

11

Praising the God in eminent Kolakka and composed by Jnana Sambandar born in Kali having many good things those truthful people who are able to recite the verses which have the strength of the grace of God. Will live with increasing prosperity as their karmas, that are like the heavy round stone, leave them.

1.044 Thiruppaassilaassiraamam (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Having tied coiling the shining matted hair, the crescent on it to shine brightly. One on whose hands the cobras are growing in size, will beg alms from all people without distinction to be surrounded by the demons. Is the God who has a neck resembling sapphire and who dwells in Paccilacciram having made all beautiful adornments? Is it greatness to give this lady bewilderment to make her weak [intent of the song is to cure a girl of a disease]?

2

The skin of a deer is his beautiful upper cloth, the skin of an elephant is his dress worn on the waist. His eyes are fire, sun and moon. He has on his head skulls. He wears on his chest a garland of konrai flowers. When people speak of him as their God, is he the God who has a trident whose blades are like leaves and who is in Paccilacciraman surrounded by beautiful gardens and moving water? Is it his strength to cause pain to this lady to make her weak?

3

Siva will dance in the hot fire at the night when all the worlds are destroyed. He has attachment towards Vishnu. He wears a white sacred thread. He had a neck where poison took refuge. He will voluntarily reach us with desire, our heart being his seat. Is he the God who has the color of red fire and who dwells in Paccilacciraman which is surrounded by mansions on which clouds settle? Is it his fame to cause pain to injure this lady wearing bangles of pure gold?

4

When the garland of konrai which is like gold in color and is shining. Having adorned himself with the pure white chaplet of a crescent which was born in fire and a garland of flowers growing in the forest tract to be spoken highly be devotees as Is he the pure one who is beautiful is he the strong God with a large heart who dwells in paccilacciram surrounded by fertile gardens which have great beauty? Is it his greatness to confuse this girl to cause her pain?

5

Having bathed in the ghee of good smell and milk poured by devotees. And placing the water of Kankai) on the growing matted hair. Singing a vocal muri (a musical composition) when a single vinai, cymbals, flute mula and montai accompany it. Has a group of small putams which have eye-balls as big as those of the owl. Is the God who smears on his chest sandal-wood paste and who dwells in paccilacciramam! Is it his partiality to be clever to cause pain to this young girl?

6

Besmearing his body with sacred ash. When his profuse matted hair is hanging low. Looking intentionally with his frontal eye to destroy all things. Having borne the river (Kankai) causing the cobra capable of dancing to dance. Wearing a loin cloth of having a breath of five fingers. Siva who has a body that cannot be destroyed. Who has putams at his command. Who rides on a bull getting upon it and who dwells in paccilacciramam is it his greatness to inflict suffering to cause pain to this girl?

7

Having adorned himself with a young cobra that bursts into anger, which is in the form of necklace of a single strand, shell of a tortoise, white sacred thread, beautifying konrai flowers, and other fragrant and fresh garlands. To be praised as he is a beautiful youth. Siva who has as his half a young lady. Is he the God who dwells in paccilacciramam and who is as white as the conch! Is it his partiality to show his strength to cause pain to this girl who has tresses of hair hanging low?

8

Bestowing his grace on Vicayan by the display of his archery. And destroying the strength of Iravanan she does not speak about anyone else except Siva who is the first and the middle of the trinity (of piraman, Vishnu and uruttiran) is Siva the tevar above the tevars, who dwells in beautiful paccilacciraman which is praised by all people! Is it his greatness to destroy this girl who wears beautiful ornaments to cause her pain?

9

The four-faced Piraman could not reach the head which was above all the worlds. In addition to the fact that he stood so that nov? Vishnu who is blue in color could reach the red feet which was below all the worlds. Siva who is as white as milk and who dwells in Paccilacciramam which has gardens well fed by water on which the big moon seems to rest is it his nature to do reproachful acts to cause pain to this girl wearing bangles of pure gold?

10

Though the religionists (Jains and Buddhists) have brilliance in conjunction with sense of shame) they deserve to be jeered at. Do not accept their words as they eat twice daily and as the laughter is to be afraid of. Siva who has in one body male and female forms. Is he the God who has on his broad chest many ornaments and who dwells in Paccilacciramam! Is it his magnificence to appear attractively to cause pain to this girl who is like a beautiful and tender creeper?

11

Adorning with garlands to which are added fragrant incense and who dwells in Paccilacciramam to be worshipped by devotees with increasing love in their hearts saying that this God is the spotless person who is beautiful. To praise with the aid of these pleasing Tamil verses which have increasing greatness which were composed by Jnana Sambandar who is proficient in Good Tamil and who is a native of Kali surrounded by cool gardens with plenty of flowers. Karmas will not approach (those who can recite these).

1.054 Thiruvoaththoor (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Dancing Siva who holds a bright weapon of a battle-axe and who dwells in Ottur! If we consider, there is no one who does not praise your qualities and worship your golden feet selecting and fitting flawless flowers and other materials for worship.

2

Siva who has on one half a lady with young breasts which are so close that between which even a rib of a palm-leaf cannot enter, who wears dress the skin of a spotted deer; Siva who has matted hair and dwells in Ottur! We shall praise you and your feet.

3

The deceitful God who is in Ottur where the bright plantain fruits pour their sweet honey! You will take the nature of those whose life is a riddle like the inner root. You wear a men’s loin-cloth to cover the private part. How good is your love!

4

Siva who wears on his left ear a women’s ear-ring. Who makes the cobra of five hoods which have spots, to dance! Who drives away the sins of devotees! Who dwells in the region where Ottur is situated! We shall praise you grant us your grace.

5

Siva who wears a men’s earring in the right ear! You have by your side a cruel battle-axe. Grant your grace without invoking you, to those who sing in Tiruvottur your virtues which are without any faults, and dance out of joy.

6

When you come to receive alms is there anyone who can give alms among the children, to you, wishing it with excessive strength of mind, as they lose their strength of mind captivated by your voluptuous form? The naked God in Tiruottur! Grant your grace to them, to give you alms.

7

The first cause of all things who is in Tiruottur! Are there any people who do not talk praising your goodness as the master who has a head on which the konrai which has abundant pollen, glitters?

8

Siva won a victory over the arakkan who said what a small thing is this mountain when compared to my strength! The acts good and bad, will leave people who say, Ottur of Siva who shot an arrow on the three forts of the enemies

9

Siva who stood as an unequalled bright column of fire for very long time in Ottur! Piraman who had learnt the four Vedas and Vishnu went in all directions searching for you in a large measure.

10

Do not believe and accept as truth the words of the black Jains and tevar who cover their bodies with a robe soaked in red-ochre. (People of this world!) Meditate without ceasing on the feet of the God of great fame who is in Ottur and destroyed the forts by discharging a single arrow.

11

The acts of those who cherish with love the verses composed by Jnana Sambandar of famous Pukali, on the deity who desires konrai flowers and who is in Ottur where male palmyras bring forth clusters of immature nuts being transformed female palmyras, will be destroyed.

1.067 Thiruppazhanam (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Chanting the Veda, wearing the white sacred thread and mounting a white bull, will come with pomp surrounded by demons, wears a skin flayed from the tiger, uttering continuously the names, chief, naked one, and one in whom people can repose confidence. Siva in the city of Palanam will do away with the sins of those who worship his feet.

2

Siva has a frontal eye above the eyes in the face and has a crescent on his matted hair. Our father, Siva who kicked with his upper part of his foot without minding as a worthy object to make Kalan to die completely for the blood with the offensive smell of the wound to run like a river. Is in the city of Palanam which has beautiful gardens where intoxicated bees hum like tunes, with the daughter of the Himalaya mountain.

3

Siva has a crescent and water on his matted hair. Has as his place the cremation ground where the ghost which has open eyes as big as a drum dwells. The chief of the people of this world. Is in the city of Palanam where devotees praise him with flowers in which bees hum, dance and sing, during which the beating of drums, the blowing of conches and offering of food never ceases.

4

In the cremation ground where the shaggy rock-horned owl which lives in the high strong branch, hoots. Dancing at night when the putams are singing. The great one who received honey (toddy) in the skull of the ancient Piraman who is seated in the beautiful (lotus) flower. The supreme God who admits us as his protege. One who has the six attributes. One who has the appellation of Parameccuravan is in the city of Palanam.

5

The God who burnt the three forts with a superior and cruel bow, and has a bull that is capable of killing. Palanam where peacocks with long tails and indian cuckcoos are found in abundance. The Kaviri which is like the sea. Is in the city of Palanam where the waves pushes in the opposite direction jack-fruits and mango-fruits of good taste, beauty and fragrance jump in the floods, and wash them on the banks.

6

Whistling sound, the sound of the conch calling devotees. And the bustle of never-ceasing festivals holding a skull which had a brain in it (this is the action of Siva) shot an arrow on the forts to reduce them to dust, to be praised by the devotees. Is in the city of Palanam where from the coconut trees having leaves, plaintain trees having cluster of fruits, and ripe fruits of the areca-palm with spathes, which are growing in the groves, fall on the banks where mire has not dried up.

7

Siva is praised by devotees who never utter falsehood, by turns has a holy body which is red, has a black neck, has on his chest a white sacred thread. Dances indicating with his hand freedom from fear the God in the city of Palanam placed on his matted hair which is full of water, a dancing cobra with a hood, together with a crescent.

8

Siva who pressed down with his toe to kill all the twenty shoulders of the one who was as tall as to touch the cloud, and who lifted the mountain out of enmity. Siva who drank the poison and besmeared himself with the powder of holy ash. Is in the city of Palanam surrounded by rice-fields and fertile lotus flowers full of fragrance.

9

Siva has a golden matted hair in which the bright garlands of konrai which has bees on them spread their fragrance. Who has a body which could not be found by Ayan who is seated on a long lotus and tall Vishnu who completely measured as three feet the world which has the sky as its cover. And who has besmeared his chest with holy ash, is in the city of Palanam.

10

Running even before cleaning their eyes to be praised by devotees who do not regard the words of contempt spoken by those who drink the gruel mixed with other food-stuffs. Having drunk the honey in the fertile lotus in a large measure by its suckers is the city of Palanam where the bees hum like the melodies played on the lute.

11

In venupuram where the pearls that are produced in bamboos abundantly spread their fragrance. Jnana Sambandar who is such a great person to direct people by the power of his words to salvation. About Palanam where people practise songs which are sweet to be spoken highly. Those who are capable of reciting ten verses which are like garlands and which are eminent by the truths they contain, are good people.

1.092 thiruveezhimizhalai (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Siva in Milalai which has no blemish. Grant me coins without discount in changing them. There is no reproach.

2

Siva who is the master! And who is in Milalai which has Vedas! Grant me the coins which are defective, in the proper manner, without defect.

3

Siva who has a red form! Who is in Milalai where truth reigns! And who has a cobra with a hood! Grant me a defectless coins to save me.

4

Siva who smeared holy ash! Who mounted on a bull who is in Milalai which is highly praised grant me not only blemishless coin but also eternal bliss.

5

Siva who issued from the frontal eye fire with smoke to burn Kaman. Siva in famous Milalai! Grant me well-being (protection)

6

Siva who has a twisted matted hair! Who has a neck resembling sapphire! Who is in beautiful Milalai! Command us to do service to you.

7

Siva who has as one half a young lady! Who is in eminent Milalai! Who has Kankai on the head! Remove our doubts.

8

You took pity on Arakkan when he was crushed! Who is in Milalai whose fame has spread everywhere. Give up being partial.

9

You have a head and (feet) which both Ayan and Vishnu tried to find out. Grant me the eternal bliss also.

10

The Jains who pluck the hairs on their heads are not capable of knowing what they should know. Siva who is in Milalai full of fragrance! It is difficult to be separated from you.

11

(Those who are able to recite) the verses dedicated to Vilimilalai by Sambandar of the great city of Kali, [will attain all good things].

1.098 Thirussiraappa’l’li (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

When I talk about Siva who has two holy tanks, nanrutaiyan and tiyatillan, who has a spotless white bull who has Umai on one half, who has wealth unlike the wealth that people get as a result of their virtuous acts done in previous births, who has the hill of cirappalli as his abode, my heart is comforted

2

The red-faced female monkey holding in the hand its young one being sulky with the its male monkey in order to spring on the bamboo. Siva who has covered himself with the skin of a ferocious elephant wet with blood, who is in Cirappalli, where that monkey climbs up the black hill is it not a blemish for you to keep a cobra with hood, along with the crescent?

3

When the sound of the mulavu drum which is played on a low pitch is sweet to hear under the shade of the hill in Cirappalli surrounded by red and cool millet farms and mountain springs, Siva who has on his matted hair beautiful flowers, there will be no afflications to the devotees of our God who rides on a bull

4

Staying in the blue nelumbo flowers which blossom profusely in the mountain springs on the slopes which have many ghats in Cirappalli where the vantu (insect) of many wings and tumpi (bees) hum like music Siva who has a very black neck, the God who dances in burning fire and who has on his head a prospering crescent, is our Lord

5

Though Siva destroyed the three forts on the acurar whose nature did not eschew killing, with the mountain converted into a bow. Those who do not accept the chief in Cirappalli everyday and refute his eminence of being-chief? Will the cloth soaked in blue will become white in color in this earth?

6

Siva who is in Arappalli where in the desirable slopes the cool flowers of the east Indian kino tree of spreading color appears like pure gold, rejoices in having a young lady on one half, will consume the poison. will also receive alms in the skull. who is able to understand his actions properly?

7

The Lord who dwells in the very high temple at Cirappalli where the black monkey with black fingers plays in the slopes where the bamboos grow tall. If it is the real motive for the Lord to dance having the fire-brand held by the pey (ghosts) as a small portable lamp, it is not.

8

Having pressed down to destroy the strength of the (arakkan) who had broad shoulders like the mountain Siva eats the alms having wandered to collect it using the skull of Piraman in the lotus flower as a begging bowl he completely disregards the reproach some acts of the God in Cirappalli are not included among the Vedas which he is able to chant, and songs that he is able to sing.

9

Though Vishnu who is lying on a bed of a serpent and Piraman who dwells in a lotus flower searched for Siva, though the latter concealed himself so as not to be found out by them, the Lord of a long matted hair who dwells in Cirappalli which has on all sides boulders! Do not think of begging alms in every house if strangers see you in that act, will they not dispise you?

10

Jains who have discarded dress without any sense of shame, the words that the Buddhists who chant their Veda, and who have consumed the kanci (rice gruel) in the early morning and noon, speak without regarding them those who say we shall get great fame, reach Cirappalli, which is the far-famed temple of our Lord, by going there.

11

About the God in Cirappalli where the bee (ten) hums like sweet music, those who are able to recite the songs of exquisite beauty composed by Jnana Sambandar belonging to Kavuniya Kottiram, who is a native of Kalamalam where the conches climb up the sea-shore surrounded by waves, will live permanently along with the celestials who are connected with heaven.

1.116 Pothu (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

(Devotees) you know the saying that the present suffering is the result of acts done in previous births. Is it not a drawback to you sitting idle without any effort to save yourselves from that? We shall praise the feet of our master by doing manual service. We are his slave. Our acts will not come in contact with us; Tirunilakantam is our refuge and support.

2

Praising Siva as you who burnt the three forts by your skill in archery, planting trees to grow gardens and digging many tanks with a tender heart both day and night, we who are your devotees praise your feet which are soft as flower, plucking flowers and scattering them at your feet, sins will not come into contact with us.

3

Siva who has a spread-out matted hair and who brought us as slaves by bond paying price so that all the pleasures enjoyed with women and all other pleasures may not catch hold of us! Siva who has a trident of three blades, a club and a battle-axe! Sins will not come into contact with us roaring. [See 1st verse.]

4

The embodiment of virtuous acts who is worshipped by the viccatarar (a class of celestials) who rule over heaven and the brahmins as, the embodiment of virtuous acts, you who have three eyes which do not wink. We approached your feet the strong sins will not come into contact with us.

5

You have strong shoulders which are like globular mountain and which have no other thing comparable to them! Is it good nature not to listen to our request, having admitted us as your protege being able to do so. We approached your feet renouncing the life which has many companions which are famous. Sins will not come into contact with us, being angry with us.

6

Changing the mind which has the nature of forgetfulness. Having affirmed our lives. God who is not born! We are devotees who pay homage and praise you bringing flowers plucked fresh, scattering them at your perfect feet so that any wrong may not happen. The sins which have no superiority will not come into contact with us.

7

[This verse is lost]

8

Having cut at the root of birth and renouncing our lives, we your devotees, praise you coming to your shrine with flowers to scatter at your feet wearing Kalal, our hearts melting. Siva who pressed down the arakkan who had no one to oppose him in battle suitably and granted your grace! These sins which do not have any sacredness will not come into contact with us.

9

Piraman of four faces who is seated in a (lotus) flower of fragrance and Naranan, who were quarrelling. You whose feet and head which were visible to the eye were difficult to be seen by them! You may be visible to the eye if you wish it. We who are your devotees worshipping with joined hands, pay obeisance to you. The angry sins will not come into contact with us.

10

Following Buddhism, Jains who stripping of clothes from their bodies, lost happiness in this world as well as the other world as they had no good fortune and love for those two. Siva who has a twisted and murky matted hair on which beautiful and fragrant konrai (flower) is worn. We praise your feet. Sins which are hot like pit of burning charcoals will not come into contact with us.

11

In this birth in which we are born as human beings. Cherishing with love in order to reach the feet of our God. If we are born again after death. Those who are able to recite all the ten verses of refined Tamil done by Jnana Sambandar who practises different kinds of services to the feet of Siva who is the master of the celestials who do not wink. Will join with Intiran in the heaven which is full of many kinds of wealth.

1.123 Thiruvalivalam (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

The supreme God who dwells in Valivalam which has groves of mango trees and fragrant flowers. Has a holy body in which Umayaval who has curly tresses of hair adorned with flowers, a forehead like the bow which has many bands and eyes comparable to the deer and arrow which is to be discharged, stays with desire.

2

The supreme God who dwells in Valivalam which has gardens of fragrant flowers having honey. As the body is agreably smeared with the sacred ash to which Siva is partial, has a holy form which is beautiful like the gem of coral which shines in the silk which everyone desires, and glitters.

3

The supreme God who dwells in Valivalam which has gardens with abundant fragrance and dense by the trees in it, the poison that rose when the fearful ocean was churned, to frighten the living beings in this world, has a neck which is like the sapphire which adorns a mountain of silver.

4

The supreme God who dwells in Valivalam. Is always thinking in his mind about the water of the Kankai which flows down to put out the fire of the matted hair which resembles fire, and about the cobra which is wet in that water has lines on its body and is moving slowly to swallow the crescent.

5

The supreme God in Valivalam where many people who are the incarnation of unbounded liberality, crowd, when Umai assumed the form of a female elephant, Siva assuming the form of a strong male elephant, was gracious enough to beget Ganapati who destroys obstacles to devotees who worship his feet.

6

The supreme God who dwells in valivalam surrounded by a beautiful wall of fortification which is eminent like a mountain. The living being in the worlds beginning with this earth to have union with their females. Being united with Umai who has exceedingly fragrant tresses of hair. Bestowed his grace to destroy grey hairs and wrinkling of the skin due to old age.

7

The supreme God in Valivalam which has a strong fortified wall of workmanship of exquisite beauty is the God who comes to receive the alms, and enters into the houses of beautiful ladies who have slendar waists and whose soft feet fear to tread upon the earth.

8

The supreme God who dwells in the brilliant Valivalam and who grants his grace when devotees seek his monetary assistance, from the treasures which is with him. Having thought that the twenty hands of Iravanan should be separate from the body under the beautiful mountain, Kailas, breaking his head to pieces, gave him the name of one who wept.

9

The supreme God who dwells in Valivalam which has fortified walls in which the crowded flags seem to touch the sky, Piraman who is seated in a (lotus) flower in which there is honey, and ari (Vishnu) who dug the earth transforming himself into a strong pig. Has a form whose feet and head they could not reach.

10

The supreme God who dwells in Valivalam which has a fortified wall like the mountain. The Buddhists who don a robe soaked in myrtle dye of the marutu tree which is full of leaves, has a person which is sought by the old and strong Veda, and destroyed the ideas of the Jains who have the habit of eating their food standing.

11

On the Lord who dwells Valivalam which knows no destruction. All the ten verses which were composed with mature thought by the expert in Tamil who learnt the beautiful Veda and arts by his skill with the grace of God and who is the chief of the city of Kalumalam which has a pleasant natural beauty. Will bestow on the reciters by supreme objective of eternal bliss.

1.136 Thiruththarumapuram (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Siva feels happy in having the daughter of the mountain who has a gait like the tender swan and the lovable tender female elephant, as his companion, dances when the groups of army of putam (demons) stand by his side and sing. Has water on his tall and spreading matted hair coiled into his crown, will sing the seven notes of the diatonic scale along with Veda. The foam of the white waves of the deep sea dash against the shore and increase in size. His place is Tarumapuram which has beautiful gardens where the bees with wings hum noisily in the shining flowers of the mast-wood tree which shed their pollen in the neighborhood.

2

His vehicle is the bull which has no other protector except Siva, and which has a rapid gait, adorns with a crescent which crawls in the sky, when the sacred thread is rolling over his broad chest on which white sacred ash is smeared, will dance, has matted hair in which the fertile water and cobra are staying. On the heap of white sand which is reached by conches which are kicked by the waves of the sea sliding down, feeling exhausted, dropping, becoming broken, and joining together. Beautiful Tarumapuram where the pearls, one of the nine gems, has brilliance, and emits a faint ray of light to dispel the darkness of the night to become reduced, is his place.

3

Siva rides on a bull which is like a big mountain that touches the sky, adorns his head with a river, wears the lustrous womens’ earring which is spiralling and loosened is shining, has a chaplet (wreath or garland?) of white crescent of bright rays by the side of the frontal eye, has as a half a lady, having as the begging bowl a skull of those who are dead and gone, and has a stench of flesh that has dropped down. When Ayan and Vishnu were worshipping his form, he would not be part from the act of embracing, being united with, and loving, a lady. Tarumapuram where black backwater are close to each other, where in the adjacent places arabian jasmine (mullai) of cool petals and jasmine of bright petals blossom is his place.

4

Siva will dance with a lady having a beautiful forehead and soft breasts wearing a bodice, has on his matted hair a shining crescent whose brilliance is increasing. Wears a garland of konrai flowers which blossoms profusely in winter, has a flag of a bull of rapid gait and dwells in the cremation ground having fissures. He is praised much by the people of this earth and the celestials in heaven, does not think of the contempt of receiving alms in a dead skull, cobras are his garlands, Tarumapuram which has thriving gardens into which clouds creep through and where the pollen which is abundant in flowers drop on the ground; is his place.

5

If we search for any comparison to him there is nothing, has the nature of giving place to the swift flowing water [Ganga] to spread in his long matted hair, has ever so many thousands of names, has no birth which is the beginning, and death. Who can know the nature of killing his enemies who were opposed to him? Cobra which has poison in its mouth is a garland to him. His beautiful garland is the golden and luxuriant konrai flowers that blossom beautifully. His wife is the daughter of Imavan (Himalayas) his vehicle is a bull that can fight. His place is Tarumapuram which has gardens which are fragrant and dense.

6

Siva placed with joy as one half a young lady with tresses of hair wearing garlands, soft breasts which swells when embraced and wearing the shining curved strands of pearls knit together, and beauty-spots and has a beautiful waist like a creeper, red lips and bright eyes resembling those of a kind of deer known as malai. His weapons are the cruel battle-axe which is proud by its victory. His place is Tarumapuram where the flocks of birds sleep at midnight in the sea-shore garden, where fragrant screw-pine and fetid cassia tress are growing tall, from which honey flows when the large swarms of bees beat the flowers with their soft wings, humming all the while the seven notes of music, to make even the yal [a stringed instrument that was precursor to the veena] to feel bashful.

7

The body, in which there is a lady wearing ornaments of perfect workmanship, looks like a female deer, gait like that of swan, and long tresses of hair in which there is honey, to emit red rays. Siva has a dress of a skin, concealing a skull, ancient water, dense konrai flowers, white crescent of crowded light in the pure red matted hair. By the side of the Indian night shade, the white long-flowered nail-dye which grows in plenty in the shore-gardens where the backwater is cool and pleasing to look at, bends down into the backwater which is adjacent to the sea. Tarumapuram which has crowded fields from which the fragrance of red-Indian-water lily spreads, and deep pools where lotus and blue nelumbo flowers are growing together.

8

Siva wears on his globular shoulders which are like mountains increasingly soft flowers to add fragrance when the chest is shining with pure and colorful sacred ash. Wears a men’s loin-cloth and the skin of a spotted deer as dress and upper garment. Is the youth who holds a trident which is trained in killing enemies. The chief who made that strength of arakkan who had ten heads become distressed to roar, and then granted his grace when he again sang the Sama Veda in a high pitch. Tarumapuram which has a long shore on which the big and strong sea heaps sand, is the place for our Siva who has a bull which has the nature of leaping.

9

Siva has as one half a lady of soft breasts which are swelling under the bodice, on his matted hair the beautiful crescent and cobras are staying, his victorious weapons are the sharp trident and white battle-axe, is the youth that holds in his hand a mountain which has no equal and was bent as a bow Vishnu who has a discus with many sharp points and Piraman who is seated in a lotus of inner petals, could not find out the nature of his feet and head. The place where Siva who rejoiced in wearing garlands of konrai which blossom like garlands. Is the city of Tarumapuram which has waves thrown by the big ocean

10

Siva, who smears himself with the ash in the cremation ground, who is red in color, who is happily hailed as the true fruit of the penance performed by the devotees, poets, and people who do penance to end the cycle of birth and death, who possesses an indestructible nature, though the Buddhists and the Jains, who carry a network of ropes for placing water-pots suspended by a cord from the hand and who smear their bodies with that gall-nut powder, tell all sorts of lies about him, is not separated from embracing the two breasts, which are close to each other and which are adorned with yellow spots, of eminent Umai, the daughter of the mountain, whose teeth are white as pearls. Tarumapuram which has big gardens which are beaten by the tides of the big ocean which pushes the group of streams which leap.

11

With the aid of the verses of refined Tamil of Jnana Sambandar who is a native of Pukali to which no other city can be compared, where wealth is flourishing, and water is dashing against the banks, and where many festivals are conducted and surrounded by tall and beautiful mansions. Those who have the right, cherish with love the two feet, which are worthy of love, of Siva who has a cobra and a crescent in his very long and twisted matted hair, will reach heaven which is sweet and contains enjoyable things,wwill not have afflictions, diseases and sorrows, but will enjoy all the pleasures too.

2.018 Thirumarukal  (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

This lady will say, “One who has a matted hair,” says, “you are my refuge,” says, “one who has a bull.” She falls on the ground frightened. Siva who has as his abode Marukal where blue nelumbo flowers that grow in the sluices to the fields blossom. Is it proper for this lady to suffer mental fatigue?

2

This lady says, “Siva is my mind,” says, “one who is primordial,” says, “the cause of all things.” Our father who is in Marukal where bunches of blue nelumbo flowers are shining’. Is it proper for this lady to be troubled in mind.

3

Siva who wears an anklet making sound, has a cobra that has poison in its mouth, and a matted hair which bears the crescent! You rejoice in staying in Marukal where great brahmins who have learnt the Vedas live. You took away the bangles that are worn in the wrist and snatched her beauty.

4

You concealed in your matted hair water which makes a sound. You wander throughout the world for alms. You have fame that has blame attached to it. You rejoice in staying in Marukal which has plenty of water. You desired this lady to become enfeebled also.

5

You have a beautiful blue neck which resembles the cloud which has clear blue color and appears in the sky. You made the beautiful bright eyes resembling blue nelumbo flowers of this lady on whose tresses of hair black bees him in the chaplets and who is to be treated with esteem, in Marukal to forget herself.

6

You are praised by many people. You have a flourishing crescent on your matted hair. In Marukal turning in the bed without sleeping till day-break. Is it proper that this lady who is your slave to be subject of slanderous talk?

7

This lady will wake up from sleep saying, “Let the feet of our Lord live long, without failing.” She will meditate on them night and day. One who has a weapon of a battle-axe! The Lord in Marukal! You made this lady who worship you, to suffer.

8

When the King of Ilankai lifted the mountain. When Siva fixed firmly his toe to make him confused. Becoming dazed without knowing what to do the Lord in Marukal surrounded by a fortified wall, from left to right, and received boons from you! You made this lady who wears a garland the subject of slanderous talk.

9

Siva who assumed the form of a ball of fire whose matted hair which is like fire, and feet could not be found out by the two (Vishnu and Piraman). The Lord in Marukal whom your flowers could not leave; you made this preeminent lady to faint.

10

The Jains who have no sense and cakkiyar (Buddhists?) who have spread themselves everywhere wander doing what is not the proper path. You, holding a young deer in the hand! The Lord in Marukal! You removed the firm adherence to a life of chastity of this lady who has tresses of curly hair.

11

Meditating on the feet of Siva realizing the superior spiritual wisdom granted by the Lord in Marukal where people who are capable of the powerful spiritual wisdom, live. The fame of those who can recite the songs composed by Jnana Sambandar who has knowledge of iyal (literary?) Tamil, will shine in this wide world.

2.037 thiruma’raikkaadu (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

The youth who dwells in Maraikkatu surrounded by gardens having sweet honey and is praised and paid homage by the four Vedas! Please answer my questions, having compassion on me well. As the doors of your temple should close of their own accord.

2

The youth who dwells in Maraikkatu surrounded by sea on which ships sail and which washes on the shore conches and pearls! When there is Umai, a lady of distinction on a half of your body. What is this idea of containing Ganga to reach your matted hair?

3

The youth who dwells in Maraikkatu which is surrounded by gardens in which bottle-flower trees, common delight of the woods, mast wood trees and fetid cassia trees are thriving. Is it beautiful to place the cobra along with the crescent on the red matted hair in which skulls and flowers are shining?

4

The youth who dwells in Maraikkatu which has gardens having petals of flowers, many kinds of flowers, pearls along with the spreading red coral reef. What is the idea behind consuming the poison what rose in the ocean though you had on your body as a half Umai?

5

Lord who dwells in Maraikkatu surrounded by garden in which there is plenty of honey and where the celestials, Vedas and sages of great penance worshipped you! What is idea of your assuming the form of a ferocious hunter living in the forest, you who is worshipped with joined hands and praised by all others?

6

Lord in the great Maraikkatu where the Vedas worshipped with flowers praising your feet for many long years! One who has all the seven worlds as your possession! What is the reason for collecting alms standing before the entrance of every house in a skull and eating the food in it.

7

O Lord who dwells in the great Tirumaraikkatu where there are carnatic carp which roll topsy turvy, by the side of the ocean! What is the idea in burning Kaman who had a bow with two ends, to make Vishnu, Ayan and Intiran to be frightened, long ago?

8

O Siva who is in Maraikkatu where people who go from left to right singing benedictory verses and which is on the shore where the waves of the sea on which ships sail move about! What is the reason for granting your grace after fixing firmly the toe wearing garlands offered by devotees and making him suffer by being crushed, to Iravanan who has the kingdom of Ilankai?

9

O God who dwells in Maraikkatu surrounded by garden having abundant honey, where many crores of uruttirar (lesser Gods) paid homage to you esteeming you as their king! What is the reason for Vishnu who took the form of a pig and Piraman who took the form of an eagle for not finding your head and feet, though they moved swiftly both in the earth and the sky?

10

O Lord who dwells in Maraikkatu where the waves move about and where the Vedas and many Gods of sacrifices worshipped your feet with wonder! Which is the reason for the ignorant people of Jains and cakkiyar who are outside the pale of Saivism; to spread slander?

11

Those who are able to recite these ten verses which have the seven notes of music and are like garland and composed by Jnana Sambandar of the city of Kali who was full of the spiritual knowledge of having realized Siva, on the Lord in Maraikkatu, informing many acts of Siva. Will reach heaven to be worshipped by the people of this world.

2.047 Thirumayilaappoor (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Siva dwells permanently in the beautiful Mayilai which has a sea-shore garden of mast-wood trees which pour honey; desired Kapaliccaram Do you go without witnessing the food cooked and served to the groups of many Saivite devotees who are united with Siva non dually beautiful lady like a portrait!

2

Siva who is in the form of the sacred ash which immediately grants its fruits in the great Mayilai where beautiful ladies who coat their bright eyes with collyrium. Dwells with desire in Kapaliccaram. Do you go without witnessing the festival on the star onam in the month of aippaci the feast enjoyed by the devotees who have done severe penance?

3

In the streets of unbounded liberality of the residents in the great mayilai where beautiful ladies wearing bangles in their hands gather. Dwelt with desire in Kapaliccaram which has does not know quaking. In the festival of the star of Karttikai which is ancient. Do you go without seeing the lightings of lamps in the evening of tirukkarttikai by the young ladies who have rising breasts on which they have smeared white sandal paste

4

In the streets where people who are well-versed in weilding the sharp vel, gain victory over their opponents in the great mayilai where the crawling waves move about. Do you go with out seeing the festival on the star artirai of Siva who dwell in Kapaliccaram which has gardens as cool as clouds.

5

Siva who dwells with desire in Kapaliccaram and who is in the form of the sacred ash, in the great mayilai where beautiful ladies who coat their bright eyes with collyriyum gather together. Do you go without seeing the festival in pucum in the mouth of tai when ladies wearing suitable jewels celebrate the festival with white rice soaked in ghee?

6

Siva who witnessed the bath in the sea during the month of maci which is proximate to mayilai which has coconut tree full of flat leaves. Dwells with desire in Kapaliccaram. Do you go without seeing the dancing of the devotees who sing in praise of the feet of the Lord who rides a strong bull capable of killing.

7

The God who remained at the temple Kapaliccaram witnessing the festival of bustle in the large Mayilai where young innocent ladies crowd in the streets full of festive activities. Do you go without seeing the festival of bustle in the star uttaram in the month of pankuni when songs pertaining to the festival of offerings of food to God are sung.

8

Siva had a foot which became great and with which he broke off the shoulders of the arakkan who was low, dwells in Kapaliccaram which is captivating the eye, with desire. Do you go without seeing the eight day of the fortnight (light or dark) to the complete satisfaction of the eyes, when the eighteen classes of celestial hosts who are well-versed in heptotonic music worship Siva.

9

Piraman of four faces who is seated on a beautiful lotus flower and narenan. Siva who has a form and whose holy feet bath of them had no ability to know completely and who dwells in Kapaliccaram praised by learned people do you go without seeing the golden swing festival.

10

Jains who lead a life having stripped off their cloths, and the black cakkiyar, slander loudly. Siva who dwells with desire in Kapaliccaram surrounded by darkgardens in the country. Do you go without seeing the great bath at the end of the festival?

11

In the form of songs addressed to the lady who is like a portrait, wearing flower, in which there is honey, with reference to Siva who dwells with desire in Kapaliccaram which has fragrant gardens. Those who are able to recite all the ten verses which praised the festivals conducted in mayilai, by Nanacam who has good knowledge of refined tamil. Will be live along with those who have attained salvation.

2.048 thiruve’nkaadu (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

The Lord who has on his forehead an eye which is fire? Has on his hand fire, has a lady on his form, has a crescent on his matted locks of hair. Is in the form of music which has many pans. Is in the form of cloud which nourishes the vegetation. And who resides in Venkatu. Has a banner in which the bull is exhibited.

2

Devils will not approach people. If they are possessed by them they will go away from those people. People will be granted boon like getting issued and other boons which they have in their minds. People should not have even the slightest doubt about these. Sins will not afflict those who bathe in the water of the three tanks in Venkatu of the Lord who has Umai whose shoulders resemble the bamboo, on his half.

3

The renowned personage who is small as well as big, who has male and female halves, who is the eight directions, the life in this world and the life after that, the eight forms, which are the five elements, moon, sun and esteemed person who performs sacrifices. The Lord desired Venkatu as his place, to be worshipped by the king of the residents of heaven

4

In the cool jungle of Venkatu of the Lord who has a neck which drank the poison. Mistaking the reflection in the water of the flower of the curved fragrant screw-pine, whose petals have unfolded, to be the white crane. The fish Kentai, which moves swiftly in the tank, hides under the lotus flower. The lustrous pearl which left the sea seems to be showing its teeth.

5

At the feet ofthe Lord in Venkatu which has cool sea-shore gardens flourishing by the sea. After the life of Kalan who came to attack upon the good brahmin who worshipped with a great quantity of fragrant sandal-paste and garlands, was separated (by the Lord) the messagers of Naman will be afraid of attacking people who are devotees of the Lord who has poison in his neck.

6

The Lord has borne on his matted locks of hair the cool crescent and the cruel cobra together. The temple where the Lord who is happy to have on his form Umai who has a forehead resembling the bright crescent, as a half. When devotees are chanting his many names with words as sweet as melodies. Is Venkatu where the green parrot is perched majestically on the black palmyra tree on which white clouds rest.

7

The Lord who gave the discus to Vishnu who tied round his waist bones. And who has the good three tanks – which drive away sins and Venkatu which showered grace in an abundant measure when the white-colored elephant by name Ayiravatam reached that place and worshipped the Lord is the Lord who has three eyes.

8

The temple in which the Lord who crushed the chest of the madcap who lifted the mountain to make the lady of sweet words like melodies to be seized with fear, and then bestowed his grace, in the distant past, resides. The blue peacock of dense stars in its tail to dance. And the sea to roar. Is Venkatu where in the garden which covers the sky bees with lines make a sound.

9

These two one of whom is seated in the red lotus of abundant honey and the other who is lying on the (milky) ocean) one who is difficult to be known though ran and flew high and went on digging the earth to be claimed as his good proteges by Siva. We will not recognise the knowledge of those whose hearts do not become tender and melt out of love thinking of the Lord in eminent Venkatu where the white-colored elephant (Airavatam) did penance, as worthy of being called knowledge.

10

They who are buddhists and jains who talk harshly and arrogantly are ignorant persons who say that their words are real doctrines leave their company. Those who are endowed with sense! Listen to what I say. You understand that those who say the Lord is in Venkatu of great extent, and eminence desired by the vetiyar (brahmins) will not have even the slightest evil.

11

About Venkatu where the God different from the world has on his head a white crescent which shines in the sky, resides. (sung by) Jnana Sambandar well-versed in Tamil, and chief of the residents of Canpai which is surrounded by cool gardens. Those who are able to recite these ten verses which are like a garland of centamil which thrives by its melody. Will live in this world flourshingly and ascending heaven will reside there to add splendour to the heaven.

2.066 Thiruvaalavaay (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Sacred ash can protect those who meditate on it. It is on the bodies of the celestials in heaven. Adds beauty. Is praised by all. It is mentioned in the akamams. It is the indestructible thing in the caiva religion. Such is the nature of the sacred ash of the God who is in tiruvalavay and who has as one half Umai who has lips like the red coral.

2

Sacred ash is highly spoken in Veda. Removes cruel sufferings grants Sivaanam. Dispels meanness. Has such greatness that it can be taught to disciples by the preceptor (it is fit to be smeared when one reads religious books). It is permanently established in truth. The sacred ash of Siva in tiruvalavay surrounded by fields full of cool water.

3

Sacred ash grants eternal bliss. Makes the sages appear beautiful is itself eternal truth. Is praised by worthy persons who are devotees of Siva. Endows one with love towards the feet of Siva. Is sweet to be praised. Grants eight kinds of miraculous powers. The sacred ash of Siva in tiruvalavay.

4

Sacred ash is pleasant to look at beauty. Adds beauty to those who smear it. Gives greatness to those who wear it with desire. Deters death(makes one lovely by its excellence) gives natural intellect grants superiority.

5

Sacred ash is pleasing to smear. Is the embodiment of all virtuous acts. Is sweet to speak about. Destroys desires to all who have done great penance. Grants bliss which is the ultimate goal of human beings. Is praised by all the countries

6

Sacred ash is wealth. Cuts at the root of sufferings. Decreases physical and mental pains. Grants heaven after death it is appropriate to all religions and in particular to caivaites. The white sacred ash which people who have virtuous acts to their credit smear on their bodies. It is the sacred ash of Siva in tiruvalavay surrounded by beautiful mansions.

7

The sacred ash destroyed forts, is useful for this birth and the birth after. It is practised by smearing and its efficacy is established by that act. Is good fortune. Prevents the state of Kevalam and cakalam. Shines in the state of cuttam. Is the sacred ash of Siva in alavay who has a trident shining with sharpness.

8

The sacred ash was on the body of Iravanan. It is fit to be meditated upon. It is the form of the parasatti. Cuts all sins. It is the form of the ultimate reality. Is the sacred ash of Siva in alavay who has on his holy form cobras which adore him.

9

The sacred ash has the nature of not being known even to Vishnu and Ayan. The fire powder of white sacred ash is seen on the bodies of the celestials who live in the upper world of heaven. Gives happiness by removing properly the sufferings of being born in bodies. Is the sacred ash of Siva in alavay who has a neck in which he retained the poison he consumed as nectar.

10

The sacred ash makes eyes of the amannar who hold an ascetic’s pitcher in their hands and of the groups of cakkiyar (buddists) to be perplexed. Is pleasant to meditate on. Has greatness which is praised by people who have approached Siva who pervades eight directions. Is the sacred ash of Siva in alavay who is praised, and paid homage, by the celestials in heaven.

11

Praising the sacred ash of Siva in alavay who rides on a strong bull capable of killing. Jnana Sambandar the brahmin, who is a permanent resident of Pukali. Clarifying the superiority of Caivam. To cure the hot fever which occured in the body of Pantiyan. Those who have committed to memory and can recite the ten verses composed by him are really good people.

2.090 Thiru:nelvaayilaraththu’rai (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Pushing big fragrant flowers on the bank of the river niva in which swift water is inceasing. The grace of the God in the temple aratturai in nelvayil which has beautiful and cool gardens. Praising Siva as, our father, Lord of the universe, our Lord and who is seated on a bull’ except for those who meditated on him in the above-mentioned manner. Approaching him proper is difficult.

2

On the bank of the river, niva in which the arriving floods take in a sweep big flowers and pushing them. The grace of the God in aratturai in nelvayil which is full of gardens. Is not such a thing that it will reach the intellectually blind people who do not sincerely praise the wealth and fame of our Lord who adorns his cool and long matted hair with a young crescent, but simply worship with joined hands mechanically.

3

On the bank of the river, niva bringing floods pushing gold and mingling with precious stones. The grace of God in aratturai in nelvayil united with beauty. Cherishing with love the Lord as Siva who adorns his ruddy matted hair intertwined with a crescent. Will not reach the cruel people who do not perform service to him by the mind, the speech, and the body being in agreement, but simply worship with joined hands mechanically.

4

On the bank of the river, niva in which the floods pushing gold and precious stones and dash against the bank. The grace of the God who dwells in the temple aratturai in nelvayil where swans live in large numbers. Wearing as dress a loin cloth which is stitched smearing themselves with pure sacred ash. Is not such an easy thing to reach even a little to other people except those who think of him and languish.

5

The grace of the God who dwells in aratturai in nelvayil where the river, siva, comes and rubs the banks carrying the crowded flowers from the flower gardens from which the fragrance rubs all things and flows. Meditating as the immaculate God who danced in the hot cremation ground where the wild cats rub their bodies. Except for those whose hearts melt and languish. For others is impossible to reach them at even a little.

6

On the bank of the river, niva which has cool increasing water which is pushing big flowers of bottle-flower trees. The grace of the God in the temple aratturai in nelvayil where bustle fills everywhere. Praising to the complete satisfaction of the heart as the unequalled one who concealed the spreading water in the matted hair. Except for those who praise him in the second person and languish for others is difficult to reach that with affection.

7

On the bank of the river, niva of increasing cool water which is pushing big and beautiful flowers. The grace of the God in the temple aratturai in nelvayil which has gardens in which peacocks dance. It is difficult for others except for those who cherish Siva with love and have good conduct as Siva who smears sacred ash and has a blue neck like the sapphire

8

Iravanan who has strength enough to fight and who lifted the fertile, cool and big mountain, Kayilai, to roar. Except for those who say God who has a toe which he fixed to press close! Protect me. The God in the temple aratturai, in nelvayil which has gardens close to one another, on the bank of the river, niva, which has swelling cool water which carries and pushes luxuriant fruits, will not grant his grace.

9

On the bank of the river, niva which has swelling floods and which spreads fragrance and pushes gold. The grace of the God in the temple aratturai in nelvayil which has gardens united with that place. Except for those who bow before Siva who could not be seen by Ayan who had studied works of subtle truths, and Vishnu, and languish. For others is difficult to reach it.

10

On the bank of the river, niva of swelling floods, which dashes against the banks and carries fragrance of flowers and pushes gold. The grace of the God who dwells in the temple, aratturai in nelvayil having gardens which make a big sound when wind passes through them. Those who have fallen into the buddhists religion. And the sinners like those who have fallen into aman religion and others who do not have the good fortune to embrace Saivism, will feel it difficult to reach it if they worship with joined hands mechanically.

11

Campantan who is a native of kali surrounded by dark gardens due to the densensess of trees. About the grace of the God in aratturai where the beautiful water which dashes against the banks, spreads. The acts, good and bad of those who can recite the verses which were sung by him in the proper manner will decrease gradually leaving them. Only for those who are well versed in the meaning of these ten verses. There is no doubt about it.

2.107 Thirukkaetheessuram (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

The place which Siva who destroyed the forts fighting with them, putting to use as the bow the big mountain, meru, which has the title of being the assembly of the celestials, vacuki as the bow-string and the burning fire as the bow, considers always to be his residence with attachment. If people worship with joined hands the shrine, Keticcaran which can be reckoned in matottam beautified by gardens whose fragrance spreads even in the roaring sea. Evil destiny will not reach them.

2

Siva has a vinai on which he plays songs; has very many kinds of conduct, driving a bull, will desire performing rare dances. Has a neck which became black by consuming the poison at the request of the immortals. Sufferings and the acts which are the cause for them will perish if one rises from bed worshipping with joined hands indestructible Keticcaram in matottam which is shining with beauty on the shore of the expansive sea and which is the abode of Siva.

3

Siva has a lady on one half. Has a matted hair on which the crescent crawls. Will sing and dance desirous of smearing himself with fine powder of sacred ash, producing a big sound of the sounding Kalal and anklet. Wanders in every house desiring the alms given by the inmates, which he eats. The irresistible acts will not go near those who reach Ketaccaram in the eminent matottam to which the chief is attached.

4

Siva smears his body with sacred ash. Wears in the waist a tiger’s skin. Holds in his opened hand a trident of three blades, well sharpened. Wears a sacred thread with an affectionate mind towards Keticcaran which the God wished for staying in matottam on the shore of the sea where waves roll up and down. The acts which are crowded with those who esteem the feet of the Lord bowing their heads, will leave them.

5

Being extremely good. Is capable of bestowing his grace on those who get near him, possessing well spiritual wisdom. Praising and meditating upon Ketticcaran of our father who has limitless fame and who is in matottam near the sea which abounds in many valuable things. The votaries who cherish with love and worship with joined hands, the feet of aran, cutting quickly the sufferings. Will not be born even in superior births and will not die in this world and heaven.

6

Placing fittingly the beautiful and eminent Kankai on the long matted hair which is like a chest has a significance in bestowing a half of his body to Umai, who has beautiful eyes resembling carp. The residence of Siva. The Lord who wore on his long chest a white hog’s tusk will not leave the temple Keticcaram situated in matottam where female monkeys live with joy in the plaintain gardens.

7

Having imparted religious instruction to four sages in the past. The master who granted the living beings lives to live with their bodies according to the acts done by them in previous births. The temple where he dwells with love to be worshipped with joined hands by the people of this world. In matottam where the peacocks dance in the gardens which blossom big flowers in which the bees hum meldoy-types. Is Keticcaram where Siva bestows his grace on his devotees when they praise him daily

8

Pressing down the chief of the tribe in Ilankai in the south who lifted the mountain pining, to make his strong shoulders and head lose their beauty. The master who later granted his grace to him. Is the God in keticcaram whom the devotees worship by prostrating and thinking of matottam where that famous gold, brilliant precious gems of pearls which are found in the sea, reach the shore.

9

What a wonderful ability is yours when Piraman who is in a lotus flower and that Vishnu who has the color of the sea which dashes against the shore, both of them persevered running and digging the, earth and flying rising above to search your feet (and head respectively), wishing to find them! (Vishnu dug the earth; Piraman flew in the sky.) Staying permanently in the good city of big matottam where mango-trees, areca palms and plaintain trees grow densely. Our Lord who is in perfect Keticcaram along with Goddess parvati!

10

The buddhists who dress themselves in two cloths (one for the waist and one to cover the body). And the ignorant Jains who indulge in slander. (People of this world!) Do not listen to the ignorant words spoken by those who eat well, deceiving people Siva who covered himself with a skin, flaying a frenzied elephant to become bewildered. The father in matottam. Which Keticcaran on the bank of the tank of palavi which is permanent

11

Inmatottam where the sound of the sea which captivates the mind like the sound produced by the muracu played on occasion of marriage, on all sides. The God who has a victorious bull and the Lord who is in Keticcaram sing the songs which are garlands of verses which were done by Jnana Sambandar who is the chief of the people around the region of beautiful Kali, practising them daily. Votaries! You can obtain higher state of existence (enjoyment of eternal bliss Civalokam)

3.004 Thiruvaavaduthu’rai (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

When I am undergoing sufferings. When I am depressed in spirits. When my big karma-s follow me I shall wake up from sleep worshipping your feet. Siva who gave out the Veda-s and who controlled the poison which was mixed with the nectar in the ocean (of milk) and made it stay in the neck! Siva in avatuturai! If there is nothing to give to us. Is this way you admit us as your protege? Is your sweet grace like that?

2

One who is the embodiment of all virtuous acts and who placed on your head on which expansive and suining soft water and stays crescent! When I am alive, when I am dead, when I suffer and when I fall down walking. I would not leave the support of your feet.

3

Siva who holds in his hand a burning and scorching fire, and wears flowers of fragrant and blossomed konrai, and water! My father! One in whom anyone can repose confidence! I would not forget worship in my mind whether I am in the waking state or sleeping state. [see 1st verse]

4

Siva who out of anger, discharged single arrow from the bow with bands which flourishes to cause fire to rise in the three cities. Even if I sneeze, and sufferings arise, my tongue will not cry about anything else except the beautiful feet which are like (lotus) flowers.

5

Siva who revealed the Vedas, who wears conspicuously on the head the fragrant and beautiful flowers placked just then and who has a neck made beautiful by the poison! If the thing kept in the hand slips down and leaves me completely. I won’t think of anything else except the feet wearing armours of exquisite workmanship same as 1st verse.

6

Siva who does good, who smears beautiful white holy ash and who has tied in the waist a cobra of five hoods! My father! My tongue will not praise any other thing except your feet, even when I am frightened by a cruel suffering that happens all on a sudden. Same as for 1st verse.

7

Siva who opened his frontal eye for the fire to consume and destroy the form of the one who is compared to the beauty of others in that manner! [it can be only imagined but cannot be described in so many words]. Even if a Karma appears combining with fever. My father! My tongue will not cry about anything else except your feet. [see 1st verse].

8

Siva who pressed down Iravanan who wore a crown set with beautiful gems, under the mountain, to undergo unbearable pain. Even though I suffer from a disease, when a great affliction is increasing. I would not think of anything else except your eminent feet. [see 1st verse].

9 Siva whose limits could not be fathomed by both Kannan and Piraman who is seated on a fragrant lotus flower! Kampar makes a pun on the word Kannan; when I am eating, when I am hungry and when I am asleep. My tongue will not speak about anything else except your shining feet which can be compared to lotus flowers. [see 1st verse].

10

My father! When buddhists and Jains talk slanderous words. Siva who trained himself in granting grace to his devotees. Even though a disease afflicts me combining with madness. My tongue will not cry about anything else except your feet. [see 1st verse].

11

About our master who has a trident of sharp blades and who is staying with pleasure in avatuturai where water is always moving. Those who are able to recite the highly valuable garland of tamil verse composed by Jnana Sambandar of increasing good qualities. Having gone freed from the bondage of Karmas. Will ascend into the world of the celestials as permanent residents. Will not stay in this world [According to periya puranam, Campantar got a purse of one thousand gold coins from Siva to meet the expenses of the sacrifice that his father was to perform; this is mentioned by Navukkaracar in the last two lines of the 1st tirunericai on this shrine, which follows]

3.022 pothu (pagnsaakkarath thiruppathikam) (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

(People of this world!) When you are asleep and when you are awake. Meditate daily on the pancakkaram, your hearts becoming tender losing its hardness. When markkanteyan sang benediction on the feet on Siva without deception. The mantiram consisting of five letters kicked the God of death who come to take away his life and to be struck with fear.

2

Being the mantiram and the four Vedas (pancakkaram includes all the things mentioned in the Vedas admits as proteges the celestials, being permanent in their thoughts. The five letters are the mantiram in the three parts of the day, morning, noon and evening, for the brahmins who are upright and who maintain three kinds of fire.

3

Restraining the breath in the body. Lighting the lamp of knowledge of divine wisdom which has a bright flame opening the other path of the good knowledge. The five letters destroy the sufferings of those who praise Siva

4

Show the path to salvation which is auspicious after destroying the afflictions of those who chant with desire, without any distinction whether they are good people or bad people. The five letters destroy the sufferings when the messengers of the God of death carry you to torture you

5

The arrows of the strong matan, which have fragrance spreading, are five in number. The elements which are inside one self are five in number; the divine gardens in heaven are five the hoods of the cobras which stay in Siva’s body are five. There are five fingers in the beautiful hands of those who recite mantirams; just like those, the mantiram of Siva consists of five letters.

6

At times when one sneezes and coughs following each other. When we have to experience cruel suffering of the hell. When the acts reach us attacking us in this birth. The mantiram of five letter is of help to us in the next birth as a result of having chanted that mantiram without ceasing.

7

Destroys the misery of those who desire salvation getting rid of birth. Will give wealth daily afterwards the mantiram consisting of five letters is desired by Siva who performs the great dance which is permanent.

8

The mantiram consisting of five letters. Was cherished with love by the lady who has tresses of hair on which bees settle. Were the cause of iravanan singing them and saving himself, in the past, grants rule over the many universe if the devotees recite them as their duty and praise Siva.

9

The five letters. To those devotees who praise many a time daily uttering the name of Siva and nature of the red feet which have the fame of not being seen by Vishnu who has color of the sable cloud and Piraman of four faces. Have the nature of enjoying them endlessly.

10

Those who did not accept the false doctrines of buddhists and Jains who held in their hands stake for impaling, were very clear in their minds. Are weapons to beat with, the enemies of acts of those who adorn their bodies with sacred ash which is capable of destroying all sins

11

 Jnana Sambandar who had knowledge of refined tamil. Who learnt the four Vedas. And the chief of the inhabitants of Kali. Those who are capable of reciting the harmless garlands which contain the greatness of the mantiram of five letters on which he meditated and sang. After their life in this world will become celestials.

3.024 Thirukkazhumalam (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

One can lead a virtuous life in this world, daily. If we think about it, nothing will be wanting for the final beatitude. All things pleasing to the eye will come to us of their own accord. Is the noble-natured God, who was seated along with the eminent lady in the fertile city of Kalumalam, well?

2

Saying, the food of milk in the golden cup which is like the flower is harmful when my father was angry, God admitted me into his grace. He wears an earring in the ear. Is the noble-natured God who was seated with a simple-minded lady in the fertile city of Kalumalam, well?

3

We can save ourselves from sufferings by performing devoted service to God. In the fertile city of Kalumalam the God who has flowers of Indian laburnan on which bees settle and a matted hair coiled like a crown on which there are flowers having honey, and a frontal eye. Is the noble natured God who was seated along with the company of a lady, well?

4

My mind! You shake off laziness thinking we are having anxiety! In the company of the lady wearing suitable ornaments, and bright bangles on the forearm in the fertile city of Kalumalam where in the fields the carp leap. Is the noble natured God was seated to praise him by uttering his many names, well?

5

My mind! You leave the anxiety thinking we have no place of refuge! God who has a flag on which is drawn the figure of a bull. The city which the celestials worship and then wake up from bed. In the fertile city of Kalumalam which has mansions of tall entrance. Is the noble-natured God who was seated with the lady whose gait is like that of the female swan, well?

6

My mind! There is no other support for us. In the fertile city of Kalumalam where good brahmins who have learnt the Veda, live. The noble-natured God who begot and admitted me into his grace. Is the who was seated with a lady of small waist, big sides and ornaments of perfect workmanship, well?

7

My mind! Leave telling your grievances to others for redress when several blemishes surround you. With a lady wearing ornaments suited to her beauty who has a forearm full of bangles. In the fertile city of Kalumalam which is made beautiful by dark gardens. Is the noble-natured God who has matted hairs coiled into a crown on which the crescent whose surface increases in size progressively, well?

8

When the arakkan who lifted the sacred mountain cried aloud from sorrow. God squeezed him with his toe when he played upon the long yal melodies. He granted him a sharp sword in the fertile city of Kalumalam is the noble-natured God who was seated with a lady who bestows increasing grace on devotees, well? Arakkan is spoken highly and ridiculed after;

9

Being difficult even to think (of him) by the tall Vishnu and Piraman. The God has a form of fire whose head and feet could not be found out by both of them. In the fertile city of Kalumalam which is beautiful by gardens spreading fragrance is the noble-natured God who was seated with a lady whose gait can be compared to that of the female elephant, well?

10

(People of this world!) Save yourselves by reaching the feet of the God, weeding out as useless the sharp pointed words of cakkiyar (buddhists) and Jains who wear mats tying them with cords. In the fertile city of Kalumalam where gardens are as cool as clouds, thrive. Is the noble-natured God who is in company with the lady who performed big charitable deeds, well?

11

On our Lord who was in the company of the lady who has big and broad breasts, in the fertile city of Kalumalam where tanks of black mire and honey are on the increase. The verses of chaste Tamil composed by Jnana Sambandar of rare knowledge of Tamil. Those who recite with desire these, will go to heaven after life in this world, and rule there.

3.039 thiruaalavaay (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Lady who has eyes that are comparable to the startled eyes of the deer! The great chief queen of the Valuti! Listen to what I say. Do not feel distressed that I am such a young boy from whose mouth milk is flowing. When the God in Tiruvalavay stands by my side as help, I can not be easily defeated by the low people who inflict many sufferings on others and who live in hills beginning with great anaimalai; [there were eight hills round Maturai where Jains lived]

2

Speaking in a roaring voice in broken samskrit in which akamams and mantirams are contained, along with pakatam. Doing acts intentionally and wandering like the big and angry elephants to make the people who follow the Vedas feel ashamed. When Aran in Tiruvalavay stands by my side as help I am not to be easily defeated by the Jains who have accumulated dirt and who eat standing [eating food standing is prohibited by rishi]

3

Being killed by the hand weapon which has the name of a poem and rising having been completely routed in a religions dispute and talking disagreement and agreement to create fear in the minds of by standers, speaking that God exists and does not exist when Aran in Tiruvalavay stands by my side as help I am not to be easily defeated by the Jains who think nakedness is beauty, to make people ashamed by their form.

4

Bearing names such as cantucenan, intucenan, tarumacenan, black Kantucenan and Kanakacenan. Wandering like female monkeys. When Aran in Tiruvalavay stands by my side as help I am not to be easily defeated by the Jains who have lost the inward eye and who do not know the good things in ariyam and refined tamil.

5

By the proud and haughty people who move by the side of good people, adding to literature Kiliviruttam and eliviruttam, making people believe them to be truth. By the low cheats who rob all wealth by the show of many acts of charity. When Aran in Tiruvalavay stands by my side as help I am not to be easily defeated by the mischievous Jains who have no pity.

6

When Aran in Tiruvalavay stands by my side as help I am not to be easily defeated by Kanakananti, Putpananti, Pavanananti, Kumanananti, great Cunakananti, Kunakananti, Tivanananti and Anakanantiyar who do not accept Saivitereligious teachings and who have abstained from liquor and who perform penance without any benefit, by such people who believe that Siva is the only God.

7

We have not the slightest attachments towards object. We have not the slightest distress. Saying thus, and talking many secret words. Without any renown which is without blemish. Uselessly. When Aran in Tiruvalavay stands by my side as help I am not to be easily defeated by the Jains who have the nature of people having mysterious powers, uttering the names antanam, the doctrine of Jains, the doctrine of Buddhism and cittanam.

8

Siva who is like the fire and who destroyed the pride of the Arakkan who thought that there was no one superior to him to oppose him. Without having the capability to pay homage to him. Holding in the hand a bundle of peacock’s feathers and an ascetic’s pitcher, and performing a false penance. Holding under the armpit a mat making people quiver with fear when Aran in Tiruvalavay stands by my side as help I am not to be easily defeated by the Jains who have the conduct of following other people.

9

Jains did not praise the feet of Siva who is the embodiment of all virtuous acts and who is not known to Piraman who is on a (lotus) flower and to Ari (Vishnu) creating a state by causing suffering to other and performing a false penance plucking the hairs on the head as if they are in a dying state. Smearing their bodies with the power of gall-nut; when Aran in Tiruvalavay stands by my side as help I am not to be easily defeated by the Jains whose mouths are as foul-smelling as the mire.

10

Without praising our Siva who is our master, who has beautiful lotus red feet of which the Jains and those Cakkiyar have no toleration. Getting themselves into trouble by performing a false penance. Not treading the path laid down in the great works. When Aran in Tiruvalavay stands by my side as help I am not to be easily defeated by the mischievous revilers, Jains who ridicule learned people

11

When Cokkan of exquisite beauty dwells in my mind I am not to be easily defeated by the low people Jains who are haughty. These verses composed in the presence of Tennan (Kunpantiyan) who has a shining crown. There will be no sufferings to those who can recite all the ten verses which are equal to truth by Jnana Sambandar having knowledge of Tamil and who is the chief of Pukali which has an appropriate fame.

3.051 thiruvaalavaay (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Impartial God! [God who has a red color] father who dwells with desire in Tiruvalavay! Grant me your grace by assuring me Do not fear? Let the fire that was set to the building in which I am staying, by the Jains who are liars go and gradually seize the pantiyan.

2

Siva who took the form of one who possessed eight miraculous powers! The father who dwells with desire in Tiruvalavay. Let the fire that was lit by the Jains who are deceits, seize the pantiyan who rules over the southern part of Tamil Natu, and who is a very devout camanan.

3

The beautiful God, Siva who destroyed the sacrifice performed by Takkan and then granted him your grace! See 1st verse. Let the fire that was set to my building by the haughty Jains go to the side of the Jains themselves and then seize pantiyan.

4

Estimable God! One who has eight forms and dwells with desire in tiruvalavay! Let the fire set to my building by the mischievous Jains seize the Pantiyan who rules the Southern portion of Tamil Nadu and who is a well-educated scholar.

5

The chief in Alavay who burnt the three cities of the enemies! Let the fire set to my building by the Jains who did not think it improper, seize pantiyan who is well versed in iyal and icaittamil.

6

The chief in alavay! Grant me your grace, who took refuge in you, thinking you are my protector. Let the fire set to my building by the Jains practicing deceit, seize pantiyan who rules the southern portion of tamil natu, which has all the five regions;.

7

Siva who rides on a white bull which has bright glowing eyes! Siva who is in tiruvalavay and has gracious looks! (See 1st verse.) Let the fire set to my building by the low people of Jains who are as black as the night, seize pantiyan who rules over the southern portion and who has no defect.

8

Trustworthy Siva in Alavay who destroyed the valor of the wicked person, Iravanan who is a dissolute person! Let the fire lit by the Jains who did not praise you seize the King who rules the southern portion and who belongs to the pantiyan dynasty.

9

Siva who assumed a form which could not be known by Vishnu who measured the world and Ayan (Piraman) God in Tiruvalavay! Grant me your grace. Let the fire lit by the impure Jains seize pantiyan who rules the southern portion and who is eulogized in poetry.

10

The God who dwells with desire in Alavay which adds beauty to all the eight directions of the world! Let the fire set to my building by the Jains who are low in character, seize pantiyan who rules the southern region and who is a great scholar

11

By the grace of the father, the first cause of all things in Alavay. The heat to be transferred to Tennavan to be in conformity with the ways of world. Those who are able to recite all the ten verses composed by Jnana Sambandar are people who have wealth without blemish.

3.054 Pothu (12 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Let the brahmins, celestials and the herd of cows live long. Let the cool water pour from the clouds. Let the king become exalted. Let all the evils fall down. Let the name of Siva surround the world. Let the world also be free from sufferings on account of that.

2

Though Siva is difficult to be seen by those who do not have love, he will appear before sincere devotees in a form. He will have in his palm fire; will ride with joy on a bull, his neck too is black. He is great though he dwells in the cremation ground. Who can know his true nature?

3

Smearing himself with a well-burnt ash as he would smear sandal mixed with perfumes. Siva has no father and mother. He will remove the sins of those who wake up thinking of him only. What is the manner of our father!

4

If anyone questions about the manner in which the first cause of all things, Siva, grants his grace and [about] his many attributes and greatness; they are innumerable. We need not dilate (debate?) upon that bowing your heads to the feet of our father. Approaching him, let those who are fit to receive his grace listen to them so that sufferings which cause pain, and sins which come as the cause of those.

5

You need not investigate Siva by statement of reason and by words which are used as illustrations. Our light divine is brilliant both inside and outside. You live meditating on that light; people who want to be rid of great sufferings! People who are abounding in virtues! Approach him at least for a moment!

6

Wise men say that Siva dances, kicks the God of death who is difficult to be warded off and sings the Vedas; [Are these acts done by Siva to attain fame or to save souls?] If one investigates what is the use of fame to him? If you question that he completely roots out the sufferings and births as the sins leave the souls. Can you establish that there is any other idea except his grace which he bestows without any ulterior motive?

7

Carrying in his hands fragrant buds and flowers. When Siva was bathed with milk which was of good quality. When Cantecan severed completely the leg which had joints, of his father, long ago. Have we not heard people with intelligence to say that he reached the feet of Siva who has three eyes

8

As the world is eminent having as its cause Siva who is the cause of the Vedas. The people of this world to praise him so that any fault might not occur in their conduct. The works of Cutan which proclaim Siva all living beings who is the cause as the supreme God, are the eighteen Puranam.

9

The round world surrounded by the ocean was harassed and put to much suffering and became weak by enemies seeing the mental agony of the God who is sleeping on the ocean which was dashing against the shore as if engaged in a battle against it. Desiring to bestow his grace to Vishnu who had Siva in his heart having left the ocean of water and coming to this earth. The famous acts of granting a discus capable of fighting, was praised by all people.

10

Desiring to feed the Tevar who were on their side the nectar which is not sold anywhere Vishnu and Piraman of four faces who was well-versed in the Vedas consuming the alalam which rose there, whose cruelty was unbearable, by those who churned the ocean which was its source. That act was of Siva bestowing his grace on the immortals.

11

Besides that act of grace one who founded the Cankam in beautiful and cool maturai for those people who are not clear about the superiority of Siva to be clear in their minds about that fact. If we think of the fact that the palm leaf in which the verse was written, thrown into the clear water went up-stream safely without being washed away by the water, and reached the bank. Is not the God who held aloft a bull in his flag, a great God?

12

The song with which Jnana Sambandar of Pukali where good people gather praised the Lord of the universe whom all the good people praise all those which were composed on a sacred poem to be esteemed by all people. Those who are capable of reciting these are capable of ruling over the heaven also.

3.087 Thiru:na’l’laa’ru (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

As the (songs) are intimately connected with the two beautiful, cool, tender and growing luster of the twin breasts of the daughter of the mountain, whose beauty is like the tender brightness of the growing leaves. And as these contain the names of the God in nallaru, if they are consigned into the fire which is bright like her body, they will suffer no damage. It is truth.

2

As the songs are connected with the young, beautiful and bud-like breasts of the beautiful daughter of the mountain who has curly tresses of hair in which flowers are inserted, and they contain the names of Siva in nallaru who took the body of beautiful nata tattuvam. If they are consigned into fire which is superior and one of the eight forms of Siva, they will suffer no damage; it is truth.

3

As these verses are connected with the two tender and beautiful breasts which are adorned with elegant strand of increasing luster in which are set rows of precious stones like bunches of flowers. And these contain the names of the God in nallaru where there are fields in which crops are planted and are close to each other. If these are consigned into the small fire they will suffer no damage; it is truth.

4

As these verses are connected with the tender, beautiful and bright breasts which were a bodice, which gives knowledge which is not divine wisdom and knowledge of God, of the daughter of the ancient mountain, who has eyes with rows of lives and coated with collyrium. And they contain the names of the God in nallaru who has a neck made beautiful by the poison. If these are consigned into the fire which has wonderful beauty will not suffer any damage; it is truth.

5

As these songs are connected with the two bright beautiful breasts which are like pots and wear ornaments with big precious stones which emit rays, belonging to the daughter of the mountain and which are well decorated. They contain the names of Siva in nallaru where cool water enters. If these are consigned into the fire which rises high to touch the sky these will not suffer any damage; it is truth.

6

These songs are closely connected with the tender growing and beautiful breasts which have the color of tender leaves and are like conical pieces in dice-play and wear gold ornaments, of the daughter of the mountain who has curly tresses of hair in which are inserted flowers. And these contain the names of Siva in nallaru who has the color of gold. These suffer no damage if these are consigned into the fire which rises high; it is truth.

7

These songs are closely connected with the breasts which wear ornaments set with famous precious stones, of the daughter of the mountain who has tresses of hair as black as the sable cloud, and wavy and curly and tied into a knot. And they contain the names of Siva in nallaru who wears a garland of laughing skulls. If these are consigned into the rising fire they will not suffer any damage; it is truth.

8

These songs are connected the breasts which are like pots and wear ornaments made of gold set with precious stones and smeared with musk, has the color of tender leaves, of the daughter of the mountain which has permanent and increasing brightness. These contain the names of Siva in nallaru who pressed down to crush iravanan of ten faces who can be compared to himself in committing cruel acts. If these are consigned into the five which is like lightning, these will not suffer any any damage; it is truth.

9

These songs are connected with the two breasts which can be only compared to each other and has heaviness and emit brilliance and swelling in size and has lactation, of the daughter of the mountain, who has the gracefulness of the peacock of the forest. And these contain the names of Siva in nallaru who could not be known by Piraman and ari (Vishnu). If these are consigned into the fire which has the nature of rising up they will suffer no damage, it is truth.

10

These songs are closely connected with the two breasts which were different and wonderful, precious stones and have lactation of the daughter of the ancient mountain and whose eyes are like the arrow. And these contain the names of Siva in nallaru who is far removed from the lies of buddhists and Jains. If these are consigned into the ball of fire these will not suffer any damage; it is truth.

11

The songs were composed in the immediate presence of the King to be placed in the fire, by Jnana Sambandar who had connection with the two breasts of the lady who has a small waist, and who is a native of the city of Kalumalam which has good history; those who are able to understand the meanings of the ten verses have no sufferings; are pure souls.

3.109 kUTachchathukkam (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

Siva in Mayentiram who desires the white jaumoon plum tree to dwell, who cannot be found out by Ari who swallowed the world, and Piraman seated on a (lotus) flower. Who resides in Kayilai which has extensive area and the one who is in the eminent arur is the God who is the origin of all things; who is in anaikka

2

Siva who was difficult to be known by Vishnu and Ayan coming near him. Who is in Mayentiram and who besmears himself with well-burnt holy white ash who is in Kayilai and has a fragrant long matted hair. Anaikka is the shrine of the origin of all things who is in beautiful and cool arur.

3

Siva in Mayentiram whom Vishnu and Ayan searched who is in Kayilai, and took away the life of the God of death. And who is under the white jaumoon plum tree under which water springs like the sea [anaikka is the shrine important for water, one of the five elements.] Is anaikka of the origin of all things who is in arur noted for sugar-canes.

4

Siva who could not be found out by Ari who rides on Karutan, and [by] Ayan who rides on a bull which is feared by enemies and is in Mayentiram who stays in Kayilai and has a black neck. The origin of all things who is the embodiment of grace and who is in arur is in anaikka

5

Siva who is difficult to be worshipped by Matucutanan (Vishnu) and Piraman of four faces. Who revealed the akamam-s in Mayentira mountain. Who is in Kayilai and is embraced by Umai who has brilliant breasts the supreme God above all other deities in arur is the origin of all things in anaikka

6

Superior person who could not be seen by Vishnu who got a discus on request, and by Piraman who is in Kayilai and Mayentiram who has a body like fire and who cut off the head of Takkan who has as his ornaments uruttirakkam is in arur and anaikka

7

Siva who could not be seen by Kannan (Vishnu) and Piraman of four faces. Who dwells in Mayentiram and desires to remain under the white jaumoon plum tree who is in Kayilai, who granted his grace to Kannappar and our chief in arur is the origin of all things who is in anaikka

8

Siva is difficult to be seen by Vishnu who has the color of the sea, and Piraman of four faces. He crushed the heads of arakkan under the big mountain. Our Lord in Mayentiram who drank the poison. And one who has a strong bull and dwells in arur. Is the first supreme being who is in anaikka.

9

The first supreme being whom Vishnu and Ayan could not know and the one in Mayentiram who is praised by the Veda-s. And one who has on one ear a men’s earring. And our father in arur is the first supreme being dwelling in anaikka

10

(People of this world!) Do not pay heed to the knowledge of the aman and buddhists who have no good knowledge. Siva who holds in his hands a deer with frightened looks is in arur and Mayentiram and who is in Kayilai who could not be known by Vishnu who is sleeping in the ocean which has rolling waves, and Ayan when both searched (his head and feet) is in anaikka

11

Siva whom Vishnu who took the form of a pig and Ayan (who took the form of a swan) could not find out. And who is Kayilai which has many gardens, and in Mayentiram is in anaikka belonging to the supreme being who is in arur. (People of the world!) Recite the tamil verses composed by Jnana Sambandar.

3.123 Thirukkoa’namalai (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

The spotless supreme being, Siva the sound of rows of Kalal and the sound of anklets which he wears make a big sound. Has a form in his holy body which is smeared with sacred ash and in which the daughter of the mountain is united as one half has in his banner the form of a bull dwells with desire in Konamamalai where the waves of the ocean scrape the sandal-wood washed ashore and the black eagle-wood logs and sift the pearls.

2

Flaying the elephant that came speedily. Siva would cover his body with that skin. Being united with a lady whose forehead is in shape like the crescent, who wears bangles and whose gait is comparable to the gait of a female elephant. Being surrounded by the sea which roars so that people who hear that sound say it is very harsh. Carrying pearls coming near the inhabitants on the shore dwells in Konamamalai which appears to be prosperous

3

Siva placed in the spreading matted hair coiled into a crown a cobra with a hood, and a cool young crescent. Was united with a young and beautiful lady with red lips which has the red color of the common creeper of the hedges. Has an unequalled weapon, meru which he bent into a cruel bow which supported the angry serpent as a bow-string, opening the eye to pierce through the unequalled enemies on the forts. Dwelt with desire in Konamamalai surrounded by a roaring sea.

4

Placing in the matted hair a young lady, Kankai, ridiculing her speed. The spotless God, Siva, who granted a boon that the Cupid would have a form before his wife, after having burnt and reduced to ash the beautiful Matanan, to his wife Rati who implored Siva, One, having feet like lotus dwelt in Konamamalai where the strong waves carry with them from the sea superior gold, oysters and pearls which are produced in the fertile ocean which roars, and wash out on the shore sifting them.

5

Siva has the unique quality of not leaving the mouths and minds of those who sing his praises of his feet being united together in affection, invoking him as the master who is kinder than the mother has many forms which are visible to the subtle eye. Having removed the physical ailments and the spiritual impurities from those who have the business of worshipping God, has revealed works of intellectual sharpness. Dwelt in Konamamalai in this world surrounded by tanks along with the sea.

6

Siva has the uprightness of granting his grace to the bachelor who worshipped him with affection with a sincere mind and whose life the God of death came to take away, by kicking the latter so that he might not return to take away his life. Accepted us as his slaves. Dwelt in Konamamalai surrounded by the garden where the superior blossomed jasmine, common delight of the woods, mast-wood trees, east indian kino trees, fertile panicled golden blossomed pear-trees, champak trees, and the creeper of arabian jasmine which spreads on the wild-line trees, are growing.

7 (This verse is lost)

8

Siva snubbed the pride of Iravanan who lifted the mountain. Connected him with boons exhibiting intimacy and granting wealth when he praised. Does not know when he was born and when he would die. Prevented the sacrifice from being finished. Is greatly famous to whom the votaries have their lives, greatness of his grace and the compassion that he bestowed on them, dedicated dwelt in Konamamalai.

9

Siva has the nature of dwelling as a great person who went to every house for alms holding a white skull in one hand without loathsomeness rose high as a column of bright fire that could not be known by both Vishnu who has a color of the renowned ocean, and Piraman. Stood as a preceptor even to the good Vishnu who returned after an unsuccessful search for the head, to worship his feet wearing sounding Kalal. Dwelt with desire in Konamamalai.

10

Having overcome the unprincipled slander of the Jains who eat standing and the terar who eat sitting. Has the nature of consuming the poison. Being united with a lady of tender nature on one half. Surrounded by the bright ocean where waves are crowded, and by jasmine creepers. Dwelt in Konamamalai where the fragrance comes and moves in the bright sea-shore garden and the hill, as many waves which flow down, strike against them.

11

On Siva who has no faults and who dwells with desire in Konamamalai surrounded by the roaring sea. Jnana Sambandar who is full of ideas, who is the chief of the inhabitants of Kali, and who has vast erudition and knowledge gained by listening to words of wisdom. Those who hear and those who recite the garlands of ten verses composed in refined tamil of great fame. Will not be afflicted with the old acts done in previous births and they will have relations of great people. They will live in heaven having become great.

3.125 thiru:nalloorp peruma’nam (11 verses)

Author: Sambandar

1

One who adorns himself with the garlands of verses which have subtle meaning like fragrance! Lord Siva who is in Nallurpperumanam where servants of God gather together! I do not desire the marriage during which the bridegroom has to place the right foot of the bride on the grinding-stone and other ceremonies. Have not the songs which I sang of Kalumalam (Cirkali) and many other shrines, come true?

2

The pearls in the cool sea which reach the sand which is heaped by the waves. Girls who are beautiful like the portrait Having them as big sand particles adding with them the flowers which have fragrance, play celebration of marriages. God is in that Nallurpperumanam. Has a lady in one half.

3

Residing in Nallurpperumanam where the devotees having a mind full of love, get all good things. Those who praise the feet of my father who is the cause for happiness will not undergo sufferings will do more and more service to God.

4 It is the tiger’s skin that is tied round the waist. The blanket with which he covers is the skin of the elephant which has a nature of killing. His loin cloth is wide. The above mentioned belong to our God who is residing in Nallurpperumanam where good-natured people worship him.

5

You desired the bull as your vehicle. You desired the white ash, having danced in the fire in the cremation ground. You were pleased to enjoy the fragrance of blossomed konrai flowers which are in rows and have honey. You delighted in Tirunallurpperumanam as quite different from other shines. You were pleased to have Umai as your half.

6

He is easily accessible to devotees who worship him without failing in their routine. He has a plate tied to his head when he assumed the form of a hunter. You seem to be more partial towards the city of Nallurpperumanam where dances and musical instruments played as their accompaniments never cease. You are our master

7

He has a neck as black as the sable cloud; Has eight shoulders. Has Vennirru Umai as a half. Has a serpent tied as a girdle upon the skin of the tiger which can pounce; God in Nallurpperumanam is in the enjoyment of all pleasures. Though he was like that, he was practising only yokam.

8

You were deserving, and appropriate, to your greatness. On that day having placed the arakkan beneath the high mountain to pine and be disheartened. You were smiling (at his ignorance) today you entered into Nallurpperumanam and stayed there. Please bestow grace upon us to reach your feet

9

One who is seated in the cool lotus flower suitable to him. And the Vishnu of good nature are incapable of knowing his greatness. Great men say that all the four great marai (Veda-s) are his songs. Nallurpperumanam is the temple belonging to the Lord of twisted matted locks of hair.

10

You who quarrel on hearing the ignorant words of ignorant Jains and cakkiyar! Come cakkiyar: the followers of Buddha who is also called cakkiyamuni]] the chief. To worship the feet of the Lord who is the meaning of the Veda it is easy to attain eternal bliss.

11

About the God in Nallurpperumanam who can give positions which can be received by devotees. Sung by Jnana Sambandar who was born in Kali surrounded by fragrant gardens. For those who are capable of reciting the Tamil verses which can bestow good benefits, with the idea of reaching the feet of God. Reproch spoken by the people, and sins will become extinct. (they) will not undergo any suffering.

Appar

4.001 thiruvathikai veeraddaanam (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

The father who dwells in Atikai Virattanam on the (northern) bank of Ketilam! You do not cure my disease which is giving me pain like the God of death. I do not know that I did many cruel acts intentionally to get this disease. Siva who has a bull! I bow to your feet only, always night and day without leaving them. Being invisible. Inside my belly. To disable me by binding together with the intestines. I who am your slave could not bear the pain

2

I kept my mind as a place for you only. I do not know having spent even a moment without thinking of you. I have never experienced anything comparable to this cruelty. Having disabled me by bringing together the intestines with the belly. You neither destroy this disease which afflicts me like the poison, drawing near me, by driving it away from coming near me nor do you say Do not be afraid’

3

You are capable of destroying the sins of those who bow to you you wander to receive alms in the white dead skull you are able to smear you body with the ash of people who died on account of diseases and other reasons. You desired riding on a bull. You adorned your head on all side with white skulls; my God! Arthritic complaint is inflicting excruciating pain if we try to live becoming a slave to you having decided so. Please be gracious enough to cure me of it. I was formerly your slave.

4

You getting angry with me for my ignorance for having embraced Jains. As the arthritic complaint inflicts pain and disables me. I became your slave even after that the arthritic complaint is inflicting pain, please be gracious enough to cure me of it. Is it not the duty of persons of first rank to remove the sufferings of those who approach them for help? The father in Atikai Virattanam on the bank of the Ketilam where ladies who have a gait like the swan, are in large numbers!

5

The father in Atikai Virattanam on the bank of the Ketilam full of water! As I neglected the word of the watchman of the tank, who sees to it that none make the water unclean. Those who were standing on the bank telling me you yourself find the depth of the tank. As they pushed me to get into the tank which has water of swimming depth. I do not know any way in the ghat to stand in the water just deep enough to stand. I have not heard any news like this till now. To make me disabled by bringing together the intestines with the belly. They went satisfied

6

I do not know I forgot to worship you with water, flowers and fragrant incense. I never forget to sing your praises contained in Tamil and singing music. I never forgot you in prosperity and adversity. I never forgot to utter your names which are superior, in my tongue which is very low. You wander to receive alms in the skull of people who died be gracious enough to cure me of the arthritis which is inside my body. I your slave, suffered much due to that.

7

I gave up the house-holders life and the wealth earned by fair ways which is required to run that life; as there was nobody superior to me to guard me. I lived having become your protege by my strength of penance done in previous births; if it is so. Arthritis is inflicting pain. Be gracious enough to cure me of it. As it drags along rolling and pulling out, inside my belly. I fainted caught with fear.

8

As there was not even a little of deceitful thought in my mind. I your slave, decided to land a house-holder’s life with joy. If I am troubled in mind there is no one to be my companion. Our God who wears a white man’s ear-ring made of conch! I, your slave, fainted to inflict pain seizing me to become confused inside my belly increasing on it severity.

9

God who has a body which is shining like gold! Who has a ruddy and twisted matted hair you neither drive away sufferings, anxieties and diseases, nor conceal them, without approaching me. If this is the suffering that your devotees have to undergo. People like me will not trust you here after. Love is enough

10

The father in Atikai Virattanam on the bank of the river Ketilam which is full of roaring water! You covered your body with a skin of an elephant flayed and wet with blood; you are capable of dancing in the cremation ground outside dwelling places, using it as a stage. Think of that act of pressing down the arakkan who roared under the big mountain and then granting your grace hearing him chant Cama Veda. (If you think of that) even if I get up falling down, rolling and being irritated. You relieve my pains (As you do not think of that you do not relieve my pains).

4.002 thiruvathikai veeraddaanam (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

Sacred ash which is considered to be equal to the paste of sandal-wood. The moon of white rays which he wears as the chief gem in the crest. A dress made of colorful skin. The color of coral, which is increasing. A superior bull which can fight and also afford protection. The cobra which covers the chest. We are the kindred of Siva who has also the river, Ketilam which has strong and good water. We need not be afraid of anything even in a small measure. And there is nothing to be afraid of me.

2

The hog’s tusk which is worn as an ornament. The tortoise shell which is shining like gold to roll up and down. The white sacred thread which is white like the ray of the moon and surrounds on the right side of the long and strong shoulders. The feather of the crane which is beautiful to look at. The flag of the battle axe which is combined with other flags; we the kindred of Siva, who has also the river, Ketilam which has plenty of water.

3

A young cobra which is as a single strand of garland suitable to the chest and two uruttinapattam worn on the shoulders; the ornament worn on the neck which has stands of pearls; a trident of three blades which appear like shooting sprouts. A shrine very near atikai known as cittavatam we are the kindred of the God who has Ketilam of leaping water which surrounds virattam and which rises into the sky.

4

Holding a beautiful and young one of a stag, a battle-axe and a cobra on one hand. And holding a vinai on another hand. Strong shoulders which are like the big mountain in the west. The practice of dance bending the body like a bent bow. With a half on the left side embracing Vishnu. The sign of having received the big world. We are the kindred of the God who has Ketilam of floods having its source in a hill;

5

The elephant faced God, Kanapati who wanders frightening in the minds of people who rise suffering intensely, having very many desires. The two lights which have the strength to dispel darkness and the great mountain, Kayilayam. We are the kindred of the God who has Ketilam having water which confers good on people who bathe on it.

6

The light of the fire brand which is concealed (this is Siva’s grace which shines without being known to souls). The loud sound of the sounding drum which tapers in the middle like the hour-glass. Songs which were not practised even by the eighteen classes of celestial hosts. The dance performed in the stage which could not be known to people who are well-versed in treatises on dance. We are the kindred of Siva who has also Ketilam of spreadings water.

7

The skin of a tiger with stripes, which is capable of killing. The women’s ear-ring made of fold which is shining on the shoulders. It denotes shoulder by akupeyar the men’s ear-ring made of conch and has great value. The bowl of skull which has no estimate of price. The chest that has been occupied by the daughter of the mountain. The neck that shines resembling the sapphire; we are the kindred of Siva who has also Ketilam whose water spreads everywhere.

8

The state of performing dance. The cobra that is tied in the waist. And a dance which could not be investigated by many instruments and by many putams which have long practice of singing. We are the kindred of Siva who has also the river, Ketilam of running water, surrounding the virattam temple which is very great.

9

The garment of a cobra which surrounded the waist. The men’s loin-cloth and a strip of cloth used as a waist bank both of which are torn from a big cloth. Umai who speak words as sweet as the music produced by yal, to be frightened. The state of flaying without fear an elephant which is like a mountain difficult to ascend. We are the kindred of Siva who has also Ketilam which has deep water surrounding virattam, which has gardens in which flowers unfold their petals.

10

The lady of distinction, Umai to tremble with fear. (pressing down) to make the ten mouths of the arakkan who mustering all his strength caught hold of the mountain with the hands in which the nerves appear prominantly, and lifted it. Who granted many boons after that (the boons are the name of Iravanan, long life, and a beautiful sword). We are the kindred of Siva who has also the river, Ketilam, full of water which surrounds virattam which has growing gardens.

4.009 thiruangkamaalai (12 verses)

Author: Appar

1

My head! Having adorned his head with a garland of skulls. You bow down to the chief who collects alms in a skull. My head, you bow down to Siva

2

My eyes! Having a vision of. Siva who has a neck that consumed the poison that rose in the sea. My eyes! Have a vision of the master who dances standing and swinging the eight shoulders;

3

My ears, hear, my ears, hear the different attributes of Siva, our master, who has a body the color of which is like the red coral and fire.

4

My nose! Make a sound about the Lord who has three eyes and dwells in the cremation ground which is the oldest; the husband of the lady who is all speech.

5

My tongue! Sing songs of benediction about the master who dances in the cremation-ground where peys live, having covered himself with the skin of an elephant of must fluid.

6

My mind! You meditate upon the spotless Siva who has an erect and murky matted hair. My mind! Meditate on the husband of the daughter of the mountain on which the clouds move as if dancing.

7

My hands! You worship with your hands joined by scattering fragrant big flowers. The supreme Siva who has tied in his waist a cobra which has a hood in its head.

8

What is the benefit we get from this body? Going from left to right round the temple of aran. What is the benefit we get from this body when we do not say you protect me’ showering flowers with the hands, at his feet.

9

What is the use of the legs? What is the use of the legs when we do not go round the temple Kokaranam of beautiful towers which is the temple where the Lord with a neck which has poison, dwells.

10

Are there any other intimate relatives except the dancer who dwells in Kurralam when the God of death walks away taking our lives. Having reached the red feet of Siva who holds a young deer, being counted among the hosts of putam and pey belonging to Siva, shall I feel exulted?

12

I searched within myself and realised the God who could not be searched by Tirumal and Nanmukan (Piraman) though they tried their level best to search and find him out.

4.011 Namasivayat tiruppatikam (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

The first cause who is the Veda-s which are in the form of words [Siva is the meaning of those words] the supreme being, the light divine. Who is the world of salvation which knows no destruction. As I worship with joined hands, the heart to hold the feet, and the feet to hold the heart, the feet which are perfect, two in number and as valuable as gold. Though I was bound to a stone pillar and thrown into the sea; Namasivaya is the companion which will grant salvation.

2

That which sets off the beauty of flowers is the attractive lotus. That which sets off the beauty of cows is aran (Siva) bathing in their five products. That which sets off the beauty of rulers is their impartiality. That which sets off the beauty of the tongue is Namasivaya.

3

If the fire enters into the firewood piled to reach the sky, to consume it, nothing will be left. Namasivaya will root out the sins which the soul commits and gets practice in this would, drawing near them.

4

Even if we are caught in any suffering like iravanan. We would not request anyone begging him, if you free us from this suffering as you are our master and as we have a steady mind fixed to you feet of Siva, even if we undergo acute suffering. Namasivaya is the mantiram that destroys the quivering which is the result of the feat of death even if we are caught under a mountain and lie their by its grace.

5

For all the people who have taken religious vows, that which sets off the beauty is well-burnt sacred ash. That which sets off the beauty of brahmins is being well-versed in the abstruse Vedas and six ankams. That which sets off the beauty of the crescent is the shining and long head of Siva. Namasivaya sets off the beauty of us who are caivaites.

6

Siva, the dispenser of good things has no partiality. Does not do any good except to people who approach him. Grants daily goodthings. Though some do not have noble lineage. Namasivaya will give abundantly good things suitable to that birth.

7

Those preminent devotees who have given up worldly attachements joined the path to salvation. When they went, joining that path. I ran after them. When I saw the form ofreach letter reaching the aim by running. I sought the mantiram, Namasivaya. That mantiram also sought me

8

It is inner light inside the body. Destroys ignorance elucidates the meaning of words which are inside them. Has the light divine. As the souls are innumerable, lights them internally. It stands to be seen by all religionists without their knowledge. It is the lamp that shines inside the form of spiritual knowledge that mantiram is Namasivaya.

9

The first of all things and who is the oldest path and has three eyes. It is definite that his path is the refuge for all souls. Namasivaya is the salvation for all those who reached God, having gone in that path.

10

To worship with joined hands in the appropriate manner the perfect fact which wear flower farlands of Siva who has on his left half a lady and a young deer. There will be definitely no affliction to those who are capable of praising Siva with ten verses extolling the greatness which is united inseparable with the tongue.

4.021 Thiruvaaroor (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

A canopy with pearls. Beautiful yak tail which has a handle of gold. Following in an order. Pious devotees and young ladies surround the deity. Maviratis who wear garlands of white skulls of beautiful perfection, are following the offerings to God. That is the beauty of the festival of atirai day of Siva, our father

2

Those who live very near tiruvarur and at a distance, ((and worship Siva)) are good people. ((those who do not worship him)) are bad people. [Those who do not worship Siva in arur, though they live very near that place, are far away from God; though they are good people in other respects are in this respect bad people is another interpretation.] There are people who lie down densely crowded thinking that their diseases will be removed. That is the beauty of the festival of atirai day of Siva who is near at hand to those who praise him as ruby, gold, strong youth, bridegroom!

3

In every street white flags and canopies adorn them. Emitting rays. The brilliance of the big lustrous gems are conspicuous. Everywhere superior coral garlands and garlands of pearl are hung. That is the beauty of Siva’s festival of atirai day in arur.

4

Speaking about the attributes of Siva. Joining together and singing his praises. Being at variance with each other. Will prattle like mad people. The celestials will descend to the earth and worship daily paying obeisance to him. That is the beauty of the God in arur on the festival of atirai day

5

The conch which is as white as the moonlight and the drum make roaring noise. As the sound of the musical instrument, kallavatam which is played by many people who cannot afford separation from God spreads everywhere; the peacocks with big tails mistaking it to be the thunder of the clouds. That is the beauty of the festival on atirai star in arur where those peacocks come with joy and get confused. Have become

6

The devotees will frighten, sobbing, opening the eyes and sounding forth. Forgetting their good qualities and acts. Being unable to stand firm on account of ecstasy they will hit against something with their heads. Our master, Siva, original head of our family, my father. For those who praise him as mentioned above that is the beauty of the festival on atirai star celebrated in arur belonging to our father, God.

7

Ladies who have lips like the red coral will meditate upon the lotus red feet of the Lord. The ladies of marriageable age will join with the youths and get charmed. That is the beauty of the festival of atirai day in arur of Siva who is praised vociferously by the celestials beginning with intiran and persons who possess mystic powers.

8

Young people were going in the vanguard bowing their heads; the celestial damsels of the heaven who have shoulders like bamboos of perfect shape to follow in the rear; the devotees who sing smearing the different kinds of sacred ash, to surround on all sides that is the beauty of the festival of atirai day, in arur of the deity.

9

Those who say the days when we do not worship you are days of distress. Those who say the days when we praise you are happy days. And those who say, order is to creep through a narrow passage behind you, are to be seen. That is the beauty of the festival of atirai day in arur of Siva who is the embodiment of love.

10

When the pious people pay obeisance and praise Siva who is like the ocean that moves slowly on the land. The majestic manner of songs containing the fame of Siva and dances never cease, being full. That is the beauty of the festival on atirai day of the God in arur who is praised and paid obeisance all the world over without exception of any village.

4.038 Thiruvaiyaa’ru (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

The father who is in Aiyaru placed kankai inside the matted hair placed a shinning cobra having spots placed the crescent to glow with brightness He placed all living beings everywhere to worship him. Placed a young lady on one half held in his hands a young deer and a battle-axe. Placed in his palm fire

2

Laid down rules in caiva akamam to besmear the holy ash. Wore on his chest a sacred thread, of increasing whiteness. Wore a fearful cobra he kicked kalan to make his life to leave his body. Placed the lady of beautiful form in a portion of his chest. Addition to all these he placed his two feet for worship

3

Has as a dress a strip of cloth used as a waist-band He placed himself in all the worlds. Kept in his hand a battle-axe that can kill enemies. Had a skin of a tiger that can pounce upon its prey has a banner on which the form of a bull is drawn. Wears a white sacred thread of three strands. Has grace to grant to his devotees if they approach him.

4

Has many devotees to worship him and do other services; placed the crescent without the dark spot, on the matted hair. Placed a circlet of flowers to be prominent on his matted hair: He always granted me happpiness placed on one half a lady having tresses in which bees swarm, being united together Siva in Aiyaru, our father, who is praised by the celestials living in many universes.

5

Made the celestials to worship him caused the irresistible karnams to perish Danced in the cremation ground placed the five produces in the cow. Granted his grace to those who bathe him with those five He covered himself with the skin of an elephant.

6

Has an ear-ring made of conch. Has holy ash to besmear on the body created the sun to shine in the day. Created all the worlds that had their origin in him created the night and the day weeded out the evil destiny;

7

Reserved his grace for his devotees. Had a galloping bull for riding. Made my mind to focus all thoughts on him caused me to think of auspicious things only. Has in him liberation which has the full measure of happiness. Has devised many paths in the hierarchical manner. Covered himself with the skin of an elephant.

8

Has a bull on which he rides with joy has itaimarutu as his temple wears beautiful and fragrant konrai. Wears a cobra as belt in his waist. Placed Umai as one half on the left side, has a skin of a tiger capable of killing. Concealed the river, Ganga, in a single matted hair.

\9

He has many putams has holy ash whose whiteness is shining. Has many musical compositions to be sung has a kind of lute called kinnaram. He has feet to be praised by devotees he has devotees to pay obeisance to them. Created and destroyed all things.

10

Bestowed wealth to give to suppliants bestowed his grace on those who give liberally. Created fearful hells to all those who conceal their wealth and refuse to give placed in a portion of the spreading matted hair kankai of big expanse of water bestowed his grace on arakkan (Iravanan)

4.081 koayil (9 verses)

Author: Appar

1

One who has fixed firmly the dark color in his neck. The chief of the world who can be compared to the Karpakam tree. One who is capable of discharging an arrow on the three forts which were inimical. Who danced when the red fire made a roaring noise. The Lord of Tillai. The great dancer in Cirrampalam I shall praise him as Lord of the inhabitants of the celestial world.

2

One who destroyed Kalan who is an adept in taking away the lives of living beings, in order to save his devotee, kicking him with his leg. Please go to tillai and worship the dance performed in cirrampalam in tillai. Your meditate on the significant looks of our Lord which seem to ask, when did you come? There will be no fault on your part.

3

Stone hearted people! What is the use of repeating the ideas that have passed, without any good? Having danced in cirrampalam in tillai which is praised by people of good mind. Having shone like a hill of silver set upon a golden mountain. He entered into my mind to become one with it. There is not even the trace of his having entered into my mind.

4

The curved eye-brows the gentle smile in the red lips which are like the fruits of the common creeper on the hedges. The cool matted locks the white ashes resembling milk smeared on the form which is red as coral. If one is fortunate to see the beautiful and sweet foot raised in dance, Being born in this wide world as a human being is also desirable.

5

You who are devotees! We who are fortunate in getting this human birth which is very difficult to get must regard it as very valuable. One who granted the weapon of pacupatam to parttan (Arjunan) He made the fire consume the three cities on that day long ago, by fixing the arrow in the bow. Is it not our humble duty to be a servant of the dancer in ampalam in tillai.

6

The beautiful flourishing matted locks to glitter like gold. The desiring groups of devotees. Roared vociferously. Many dwarf putakanam to beat the drum Kotti intermittently better than the dancer in cirrampalam where bees hum tunes onomatopoetically like tettena who is capable of strange incidents in the matter of my daughter wearing collection of bangles.

7

The datura flower worn on the head. The (cool) looks of the three eyes, gentle smile. The hand that holds tuti drum. White ashes in which the form was steeped the fit half of the lady with curly hairs. The skin of the pouncing tiger. The jingling anklets of the dancer in ampalam in tillai. What a wonder it is that they occupied my cruel mind with the above mentioned things!

8

Aran who is in the cirrampalam of beautiful tillai! I was chanting with my tongue as a weapon the five letters that form your name I am not one who came in the middle. I have been your servant all the seven births. I will not go leaving you even if you dismiss me I am seeking refuge in you, having worshipped and bowed you having smeared myself with pure ashes.

9

Having adorned with white sacred ashes the form which glitters like gold. The twisted matted locks to shine like lightning. In tillai which is abundant with the marks of his beauteous form when he wanders begging alms. On seeing the dance of my father in cirrampalam the people of this wide world enjoyed pleasure.

9

The foot was raised to trample the moon in the sacrifice to takkan. Was raised to destroy Kalan, the God of death, was raised to be searched by naranan and nanmukan (Vishnu and Brahma) is not that foot which was raised to dance in cirrampalam in tillai. That accepted us as his protégé?

4.109 Thiruththoongkaanaimaadam (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

The flame in Tunkanai Matam in Katantai where the clouds desired by people are crowded! There is one respectful representation to your golden feet. If it is your will to protect the life of mine who is worshiping you. The dark God of death to leave me at a distance. Inscribe on my shoulder the trident of three blades which shine like lightning.

2

My Siva who is the embodiment of all virtues and who is in Tunkanai Matam in Katantai where red lotus flowers are in abundance! Alas! Thinking what the humble devotee thought about me if you do not save me from the incurable disease and mental worry. Reproach will attach you. The God of people who cherish you with love! Smear on me the holy ash from your feet.

3-9

Lost

10

Our ultimate reality in Tunkanai Matam in Katantai where the big gardens stroke the moon! When the chariot in which he was driving did not proceed further. To make Iravanan who lifted Kayilai suffer. You fixed one toe. Admit me as your protégé inscribing on my shoulder the form of bull which is as white as the big snow-clad Himalayam.

5.001 Koayil (11 verses)

Author: Appar

1

Tillaicirrampalam will supply me food; will give me gold. Over and above that. Having seen my desire to increase in intensity in this world will it still grant me this human birth to desire pleasure (from worshipping him)

2

One who destroyed the Kaman who has the harmful bow of sugar-cane. Our Lord who is in Perumparrappuliyur gathering beautiful flowers so that even buds may not be available. You worship (the Lord) by scattering the flowers (at his feet) to make the bees to suffer.

3

Being attacked by your action which grow you. Before your neighbors speak many words ridiculing you laughing at your ignorance that you were lying (as a corpse) to be consumed by fire. People of this world! You go to Tiruccirrampalam, and reach it and save yourself

4

To the Lord in Cirrampalam in the big city of Tillai. To me who became a servant which knows no time limit and from which I cannot redeem myself what effect can suffering have on me? What harm can the action from which it is difficult to be freed, do to me? What harm can the dual, old strong actions do to me?

5

As long as life exists in this body. I shall meditate upon my Lord. The Lord of Cirrampalam where there are bright honey-combs. Will place me in heaven to stay there permanently if I wish it.

6

The esteemed one who resides in Cirrampalam in Tillai where learned people live and where wise people and celestials go and receive their boons. The God of death will not go. Near those people of good conduct who go to worship the red feet (of the Lord).

7

He is one without parallel. He is the matchless light for all the worlds. He is the pure person. One who resides in Cirrampalam in Tillai. He is the aged elder. He is the youth our Lord who has on his half Uma, and drank the poison, will know his devotees (and bestow his grace upon them)

8

The form of a hot fire which occupied completely the sky. Cannot be known by the two, (Brahman and Vishnu) who pervaded the minds of their devotees. Having pervaded the ampalam surrounded by sweet-smelling gardens full of honey can be split into; the unequalled one who dances there.

9

Having bent the bow to form a semi circle one who destroyed (in the twinkling of the eye) simultaneously the three circular forts of the Avunar (the destruction of Tiripuram) the actions of people who worship with their hands even the direction in which the surrounding area of Tillai lies. It is quite true that they would flee quickly crossing their limits.

10

When the feet of the Lord who dances in the ampalam of Tillai surrounded by mansions having high storeys are in my mind. Are these Gods, Naranan and Nanmukan who have thought about him in their minds and wandered and searched him to find, capable of seeing him?

11

One who has a young maid who speaks sweet and true words on one side of his form. One who is in Cirrampalam to crush the ten heads of Ravanan who removed the mountain (Kailacam) and shook it will a roaring noise. Save yourselves by going on pilgrimage and reaching the red feet which trampled (upon them) [Note: It is a distinguishing feature of Tirunavukkaracu to mention the Ravanan anecdote in the last stanza of every patikam]

5.010 Thiruma’raikkaadu (11 verses)

Author: Appar

1

O Lord who has Umai whose words are as sweet as music, on one half! O Lord in Maraikkatu around which people of this world go from left to right! Kindly open the doors with certainty to have a vision of you with my eyes. [The Veda-s worshipped Siva in Maraikkatu and closed the doors in front of the temple turned towards him. People made a side entrance and went into the temple and worshipped God. When Campantar and Navukkaracar were there the devotees requested then to open the door closed by the Veda-s. Navukkaracar sang verses to open the doors and Campantar sang to close them. After that people entered into the temple by the direct entrance and worshipped the Lord.]

2

O Siva who has a red matted hair which is close together in the body! O Lord who has a neck whose color is like that of the sable cloud just rising and has the brightness of the fresh tender leaf! You yourself who admitted me as your protege bestow your grace on me. Remove the strength of these long and big doors.

3

O Father who has the eight forms! O God who had the fitness to burn the famous cities of the acurar who were mischievous O superior Lord who tied a plate on the head! Order the doors to be opened speedily

4

O Lord who chanted the abstruse four Veda-s! O Lord who burnt with propriety the big cities which were flying in the sky! O old Lord who wears a broad men’s loincloth! Order to separate the big and sacred doors.

5

O Lord in Maraikkatu which exists without destruction like the mountain, Kayilai! O Lord whose feet are praised by those who are well-versed in arts and by their authors who come and pay homage! O Lord who has the form which has the color of the invaluable big gem! Open the doors which are united and not opened till now.

6

O Lord in Maraikkatu surrounded by gardens which create coolness and where in the neighbourhood of the forest tract the fragrant screw-pines blossom. O Lord who is difficult to be seen by anyone however great the may be! God! Open the doors to have a vision of you directly looking at you.

7

O Lord who is different from the world and who smears himself with well burnt white sacred ash! O Lord who has no death! O Lord in beautiful Maraikkatu! Our father! You remove the fastening of these great doors so that devotees can enter directly and pay homage to you.

8

O Lord in beautiful maraikkatu, who wears on the head the river, Kankai! O youth who gave one half of your body to the lady, Umai! Our Lord who rides on a bull! Remove the strength of these doors which have not changed from their being closed centuries ago

9

O Lord who has the propriety of smearing white sacred ash of fineness! The supreme God who rides on a bull fitting it out for riding! The chief! O Lord in Maraikkatu worshipped by Vedas and who is the first cause of all things! Have the doors opened which are closed tightly.

10

O Lord in Maraikkatu to whom people of this world pay homage when the celestials in heaven advance towards them to welcome and receive them! Condescend to open the doors certainly to have a vision of you with my eyes.

11

O my Lord! You who pressed down the arakkan by your toe do not have enen the slightest pity on me. O Lord in Maraikkatu surrounded by mast-wood trees from which honey flows. Order these doors to open quickly.

5.019 Thirukkadampoor (11 verses)

Author: Appar

1

The shrine of Siva who has a growing and beautiful matted hair on which the cool crescent and a cobra which bends its body and swallows it prey is the Karakkoyil in the village which has Katampu trees which blossoms in winter and which is black in color and where the musical instrument, Kinnoram, producing music at a high pitch, never ceases.

2

Siva is able to conquer the knowledge of the five senses and other enemies he is able to chant also the Veda He is naturally free from confusion due to ignorance and unsteadiness Karakkoyil in Katampur is the shrine of Siva who is united with a lady of soft shoulders who stays in his house.

3

Without becoming slaves to things unreal (getting rid of attachments to things of the world) rising from sleep doing services to devotees who rise from sleep doing service to the God who wears a tiger’s skin to make those who rise from sleep and indulge in abuse about Siva, feel ashamed you rise in esteem by worshipping with your hands the Karakkoyil

4

My mind! Singing songs with melodies in his presence you worship the Karakkoyil in Katampur belonging to the God of three eyes, who burnt all the three forts of the acurar who had no good thoughts

5

Siva whose neck is like the blue nelumbo flowers blossoming in the tank the Karmas of those who think about the Karakkoyil in Katampur of the God who has a jingling anklet and a matted hair which desires konrai flowers of golden color which adorn it, will leave them.

6

Dilating upon the good qualities of the true devotees and explaining them to others and talking about their own faults all those who have love towards God will bow before him and sing his praises bowing before him with defectless flowers in Karakkoyil the putakanankal will sing the praise of the feet, daily

7

In addition to different kinds of pucanai such as is done according to vedic rules, Saiviteinjunctions and devotion, chanting Veda with melody done by the people of this world daily in Karakkoyil in Katampur the inhabitants of heaven think of performing acts which are the wonder of the people of this world, and do them

8

When the young lady is by his side, and sings, Siva dances holding a fire of unbearable heat in his palm the Karmas of those who worship with their hands Karakkoyil where Siva who has on his long matted hair Kankai, resides, will get decreased gradually, losing their vehemence.

9

Siva who has as a half Umai who gave birth to our Katampan who dwells in the holy temple of Karakkoyil in beautiful Katampai (Katampur) It is his duty to protect even me who is low and who is his devotee my duty is to follow the path shown by his grace without ever thinking with egotism even in a small measure in a small measure It is my action

10

The shrine of our Lord who assumed the form of a big fire which was the cause for disagreement between Vishnu who slept on a bed of a serpent having a hood in the ocean of milk, and Piraman who was seated in fragrant lotus flower, as to their respective superiority is Karakkoyil where the putakanam sing the praise of Siva

11

Siva who pressed down to grind under the mountain the heads of Iravanan of twenty shoulders, and bestowed his grace on him afterwards. The Karmas of those who have the mind to praise the Karakkoyil surrounded by cool water in which waves are rolling, will be destroyed

5.090 Pothu (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

The shelter afforded by the twin feet of our father, the Lord of the universe. Is like the music produced in a flawless vinai. The moon that rises in the evening the balmy southern breeze that blows gently. The increasing milder part of the hot season (the months of cittirai and vaikaci) and the coolness of the natural tank in which the swarming bees hum with a great noise on flowers.

2

The spiritual wisdom and education useful for the mundane world are Namasivaya only. The mantiram that I know is Namasivaya only. My tongue will praise Siva by chanting Namasivaya only without ceasing. Namasivaya only will show the path to salvation.

3

Some people will not save themselves by approaching persons who have been admitted as protege who in their turn became slaves to God. They have not the strength of mind to stand steadfast in the nature of the God who is the reality. Are their ears cavities which are not bored through by good words. Base persons, who serve other people; they will disappear from this world and become one with dust, dying without any benefit.

4

People who have no sense of shame! What good act did you do to yourself, with this life full of sufferings! Reaching the cremation-ground is not only verbal authority but also personal experience. If Siva who consumed the poison that rose in the ocean as nectar, forsakes you. The body will by lying detested by all the people of the place.

5

Those who do not worship the golden feet of Aran holding flowers in the hands. And those who do not recite the names of Aran without ceasing, with the help of their tongues. Being confused in mind by searching for food for the body only. Will pass away from the world leaving their bodies to become prey for crows after death.

6

People who do not possess wisdom! For all people to know the forms of Siva, the emblems like the flag, bull etc., temples, the systems of religions showing the right path; God’s impartiality in showing these as saving features of human beings. Even if they are instructed in the teachings of the many Vedas what is the reason for those teachings, not entering into your minds?

7

Without praising, scattering selected flower at the feet of the master who endowed us with mouth to praise, the ignorant mind to meditate on him and the head to bow down before him. What a pity I who am a sinner, wasted a long time?

8

Leaving being associated with ladies who are as beautiful as portraits drawn on a canvas surrounding me who worshipped and praised Siva. In order to plough in the same furrow again and again (to be interested in efforts to earn money again and again)

9

Siva who is the embodiment of all virtuous acts and whose matted hair is golden in color, and who enters into the minds of those who meditate on him, their hearts melting without ceasing, and remains there. Will be laughing internally feeling ashamed for their acts, seeing the flowers and water used in worship with deceit in a large measure.

10

Siva is hiding in our mind like the fire in the firewood, like the ghee which is got from good milk and the brilliance in the big gem. He will appear before us to grant his vision if we churn with increasing force with the churning rope of love fixing the stick of clear discernment.

6.027 Thiruvaaroor (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

The virtuous acts which are wandering in the sea which has many transient, and vanishing kinds of things! Sins! Are you really wealth? There is nothing lying for you who gnaw this body which is not permanent and is like the ocean. Speaking about myself. The chief of the tevar in heaven. The Lord. The big ocean in cool and good arur. I am wandering to follow the feet of my Lord who absorbs into himself those who follow him, to merge with him in bliss. I have no time to argue with you, you who are fit to perish! Do not be an impediment.

2

The great five elements! You would not desire what the other among you desires. All this world is in your power to you who can subordinate everything under your charge there is no enjoyment of pleasure. Speaking for myself. The God of unbounded liberality who is in the center of arur, who is himself the heaven, acons, and the seven worlds. I shall always obtain vision of aran who is the Lord of the tevar in heaven. Do not be proud that I could be hindered in my effort.

3

It is not greatness of mind to look at things with the physical eyes daily with attachment, fixing our aim at some forms which may be destroyed. Guilty persons of the five elements which have transformed your form into many ways. If it is the earth everything is under your command. Being the three lights; ie., the sun, moon and the fire which have a form, and which are one of the rudimentary elements of the five senses. Being the forms Ayan, ari and aran. Having three pure eyes. I shall approach the feet of Siva who has a good form and who ruled in arur. I would not subject myself to the troubles you inflict on me. You put up with my not being amenable to you, and go away from me.

4

In the body which is thought with attachment. You who are the five senses, and their sensations which are taste, sight, touch, hearing and smell. To you who subjugate the mind by the natures of the permanent forms which create confusion. Alas! This world will not be sufficient. If I speak about myself. The form made of gold belonging to the celestials. the hillock that is permanent in arur in the south. The tender twig of civam who is a beauty to the world. Who fixed his form having entered into my mind. I shall be in communion with my father. Do not be arrogant in sending me away from him.

5

The victory that is the cause for not giving up the attachment towards objects of enjoyment! The deceit that is found out in the long run. Pleasures! Is it difficult of achievement of actions which you have in mind and wandering for it throughout this world, spreading the aritifical beauty? The gem in arur which has a beautiful fortified wall. the bride groom in vaikal matakkoyil. Our Lord the father of the celestials. I shall approach correctly. I too won’t be tossed by you. Do not inflict on me sufferings, running towards me.

6

Increasing frenzy! Self-respect carried to a fault as not to respect elders! Desires! Hatred, anger, miserliness, patience! (and delusion of mind)! Is it difficult for you who can finish business that has to be done, to wander to the end of your wide world? Speaking about myself. Being Ayan who is in the beautiful lotus and Vishnu. In addition to that being the one supreme being who is above all others. God who is like the hill of pure gold who cannot be known mearly by knowledge of books. Who is called Siva. I shall join the Lord in arur. I shall not be driven by you.

7

All of you who are, affliction sins excessive suffering, likes and dislikes! To you who run and harass people is it not enough that the worlds tremble with fear and stand according to your aim? I for myself. Siva who burnt the three cities of the enemies of the celestial beings. The Lord of the immortals. Who has the name of aran. I shall reach quickly the Lord who has arur as his abode. I shall not be tossed by you. Do not cause me suffering by running towards this place.

8

Poverty which gains mastery over people quickly! Wealth! Wicked wrath! Pleasure! Displeasure! Are there not objects of enjoyment to you who eat away by gnawing the wide world by running combining together? I for myself. Siva who is like the divine Karpakam tree and who consumed the poison which rose to make the tevar run weeping. The supreme being above life. I shall obtain vision of the supreme divine light in tiruvarur. I shall not become a victim of your nature. Running very fast. Do not allure me.

9

The five sense organs who enter upon your business with earnestness and deceit, and make noise. Is this world not enough for you who run throughout this day and exercise your sovereign power daily? I for myself. The tall pillar that supports the top of the extensive heaven of the celestial beings. The embryo of the lower world. I shall reach God who reigns in arur, going quickly to him. I would not tossed by you do not inflict on me sufferings, hurrying towards me.

10

All of you who are shortage, abundance, daily state of opportune moment and poverty. Will it not be enough for you who do daily what you are capable of committing excesses being proud and running throughout the world. Speaking about myself. Pressing down the feet to make the body of the arakkan who lifted the mountain out of haughtness, to become enfeebled and then hearing his music. I am without intermission at the feet of our Lord who condescended to take compassion on him. O you who will meet with ruin! Do not be an impediment on my path.

6.031 Thiruvaaroor (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

My mind! Come to me listen to me if you think your sufferings should be destroyed. Keep on crying aloud. Saying Siva who has a very bright matted hair on which there is Kankai! And the light divine which shines within you with increasing brightness! One who smears pure sacred ash which is shinning on the shoulders! Who has a neck having become black by consuming the poison that rose in the ocean and one who holds in his hand a young stag. Saying ‘one who has a strong bull, rare nectar, the source of all things.’ and saying many times, the Lord in arur.

2

My mind! Thinking with determination that the evil actions which are very sinful, should be destroyed. Saying ‘you who have a holy body on which sacred ash is thickly smeared’! The pure one who cut the shoulders of Intiran; who admitted me into your grace as your slave’. Saying our father! Our King in arur! Saying ‘Kampa in Kacci which has gardens which spread their fragrance.’ Keep on crying aloud saying many times ‘O Karpakam’

3

My mind! Come here. If you thinking of having resting place for you. Entering into the temple of our master, daily. Sweeping that place before day-break. Cleaning the floor with cow-dung water. Singing his fame praising him, and adorning him with flower-garlands. Worshipping with joined hands placing them on the head. Dancing out of ecstasy. One who does good! Saying ‘may victory attend thee; Let you protect me; Let you protect me’. Saying ‘our first cause to whose red matted hair moving water is attacked’ keep on crying aloud saying many times ‘the Lord in arur’

4

This is what all includes the right path which leads to virtuous acts. You listen to what is suitable to you. Saying ‘one on whose chest a minute and white sacred thread is lying’ the bright light divine which does not require trimming (perpetual lamp) daily the tevar who move in heaven, the four Vedas, Piraman of four faces who is seated on a fragrant lotus flower and Vishnu joining together, cannot count in so many numbers. ‘You who have a large number of sacred names’ Be praising ‘many times’ the Lord in arur which is beautiful’

5

My mind. You cannot live beyond the span of life which you are destined to live; praising and saying benediction during night and midday. Saying ‘great God who forgives all the wrongs committed by me’ saying God who adorns himself on the head with a peacocks ‘feather’ saying ‘Siva who has a neck like the cloud’. Crying aloud with words that are marticulate saying I your slave seek your protection. Saying ‘the beautiful God who has as his abode beautiful arur.’ and say ‘our King who has a matted hair with curls.’ I cannot be blamed I told you (if I do not tell you the blame will be mine; if you do not act according to my advice the blame will be yours)

6

My mind. I was always thinking of getting rid of many births which are difficult to be rid of saying ‘God who has a victorious flag which the bull never leaves!’ saying, ‘Siva who showed to the world the way to civalokam.’ saying ‘God who stood as a mass of fire to be praised by Piraman of four faces who is found of the lotus flower and Vishnu who eyes are like red lotus and who rides on a bird (Karutan) protect us’ my mind! Daily fix your thoughts saying, ‘the Lord in tiruvarur where wealth is increasing

7

My mind! If you want to destroy the sins which have you in their grip. And if you want a way to attain the supreme state of existence. And if you want to cause the acts which surround you and conspire against you; fall down. I shall give you advice; listen;. So that you may not meet with death. Saying ‘you yourself’ are the relations and thick friends and saying ‘I shall not think of any other God except you’ and saying the pure God who tied as a belt the cobra that lives in the anthill! Be praising always saying ‘God in arur which has gardens’

8

My mind! I shall give you sound advice. This is the way for saving yourself. Saying ‘the supreme Lord of the celestials, rare nectar, and the cause for all things’ our father! And saying, our master in arur. Praising Siva. Scattering carrying flowers which fill the basket. Going from left to right round him. Singing the grace he bestows on devotees. Be crying aloud saying his names many times continuously; ‘one who attaches on his head a crescent emitting rays, one who deals death to the God of death himself and Karpakam.

9

My mind! Supreme being as the light divine! Siva who performed the dance, pantarankam! Who destroy all sins! The lamp that gives light to the living beings! One who has the name of makatevan! Saying, the Lord in tirumulattanam in tiruvarur! Increasing your devotion being steady in the path of his grace, and thinking of him. Going daily to the temple, falling at his feet and standing with shyness. The chief who is like the lion among celestials who do not wink. Be praising uttering many times ‘our Lord!’ you can cut a sunder bondage and attachments.

10

My mind. Being tossed by the five senses. Wasting your life (whiling away your precious life time) without loafing away your time in extraneous activities, come to me (and listen to me) saying the master who has on his matted hair water! You who devastated the great sacrifice performed by takkan! Saying the Lord who crushed the heads of the King of Ilankai! Saying our father who has his abode beautiful arur. And saying you who placed on my head your beautiful feet. Praise him without stopping, with these names, daily. It will be good to you

6.095 Pothu (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

You are the father. You are the mother. You are also the master. You are the maternal uncle and his wife who are affectionate. You are also the wife who is equal in every respect to the husband and you are the wealth earned by fair and righteous means. The people who are of the same caste. You are the relations directly connected with parents and indirectly with them; you are the place where one dwells permanently. You cause to come into being enjoyable things and things that direct and guide. You cause me to renounce everything from my mind being my invisible companion. You are this gold which is coveted by people. You are the precious stones that fascinate people. You are the pearl that is desired by people. You are the God that stays in all things. You are the God that rides on a bull.

2

The God of death will not come down on us to inflict sufferings. The cruel enemy which are acts will gradually become weak. We are free from sufferings also. We have no hindrances or obstacles. We are unconcerned about the place where the sun rises. We are not feeble and weak to be oppressed by anyone. Wearing a river on the beautiful red matted hair which is like coral. Dancing in the fire. Siva who has the color of the red coral, who was pleased to be bathed in all the five products of the cow, who has the color of the red hill, and who has the color of the red sky in the evening, dwells in my mind; (on account of that fact) (the words within brackets should be at the beginning of this verse).

3

Who will not dance if Siva causes the living beings to dance? Who will not be inactive if Siva stops his dance in the middle to afford respite?! Who will not run if he is caused to run. [The idea is causing the living beings to look inside and realise God in themselves but not to hanker after worldly pleasures and worthless things.] Who will not become tender-hearted if his heart is made to melt [the idea is living beings run after external objects and become averse to them as they are of no use to them ultimately and seek God inside and ponder over the help he rendered and make them melt, with love.] Who will not sing if he is caused to sing? Who will not pay obeisance to God if he is made to pay homage [as the ego completely vanishes, the living beings are unable to stand before God but prostrate on the ground and pay homage] who will not have the desire to have a vision of God if he appears before him and shows him his true form? Siva who has a frontal eye! If you do not show your real form who can know that by their own efforts?

4

The good state of future bliss which those who are qualified to get obtain the embodiment of all spiritual wisdom. The light that shows the good things. [the light that shows itself to devotees] the state of subtle and minute sound of those who have reached the state of natam which is beyond the reach of the four Vedas. God who is in a surrounding which defies description by words. (though) this is your nature. The donor of all good things like the diving tree, Karpakam, who stayed permanently in my body which is all filthy flesh and transcient, by entering into my mind which to all appearances is steady but is in fact fickle! God who has the color of the gold and the color of the big ruby! I shall not allow you to go away from me.

5

Place, which are without holiness as there are no sacred temples in them. Places where people who do not smear sacred white ash and which have no goodness in them. Places in which people do not sing the praises of Siva out of piety by bending their bodies as a mark of humility. Places which do not have many temples with beauty. Places where the white conch spiralling to the right, is not blown with love, during worship. Places which do not have canopies and white flags (they are used on occasions of festivals.) Places in which people do not have their food after scattering buds about to blossom and blossomed flowers. All those places cannot be called places in which people live. They are forests adjoining mountains and forests

6

If one does not recite the mantiram consisting of five letters which is Siva’s name. If one does not speak about the nature of Siva who has the color of fire, at least once in their life-time. If one does not go from left to right around the holy temple at least once. If one does not have his food before plucking flowers and scattering them at the feet of the Lord. If one does not smear on his body white sacred ash to be rid of diseases which are difficult to be cured. Those people have lost the grace of God. If anyone asks why they were born as human beings. Incurable great diseases to inflict pain. They are people who definitely die, being born in future births without any good to themselves, only to be born and to die again and again, that being their sole purpose in life.

7

You are comparable to yourself as there is none to be compared to you. You are the seed that sprouts in the field of the minds of those who meditate on you. You are the master. You are the rare nectar to the Kings who protect their subjects, as God grants happiness to them. You are all the four Vedas. You are the six ankams of the Vedas. You are the precious metal gold. You are the precious stones. You are the things of enjoyment. Thing which is worthy of praises in this world! Without wondering you as manifesting as many things. How can I, the ignorant, praise you counting completely your nature without leaving anything.

8

My father! You bound me, your slave by the rope of love I had towards you. You purified me by the pure water of your benign looks. You became how much easy of approach though you are how much difficult to be approached. You took compassion on me and admitted me as your slave and accepted all my actions as yours. I am a mad man. I am ignorant. I wander without any aim in life. I am as low as a dog. Did you not forgive all the wrong actions committed by me? My Lord! Are we fit to receive all the gracious acts? What a joy it gives if I think of the benign grace of our Lord!

9

I was bad being associated with the Jains in the prime of my life I am bad in character. My aim in life was also bad. I had in a large measure only faulty acts to my credit. I was bad in my form as an ascetic, which should do good to others. I was wholly bad, being bad in some respects. I had no spiritual wisdom. I did not associate myself with the company of good people. I am not the beast that is intermediate between human beings endowed with reason and other living beings. I did not become any other thing except being a beast. I was capable of talking in a large measure words which people of good taste, detest. I was bad by my poverty. My habit is supplication; I would not give anything; to what purpose was I, the ignorant, born as a human being?

10

Giving me one of the nine treasures of Kuperan which is in the form of a conch and another which is in the form of a lotus (both of them). Though they may give the right to rule over this earth and the heaven. We will not esteem those wealths of the donors who die without being permanent. If they are not fit to be the devotees of matevar. Even if they be lepers who have all the parts of the body rotten and diminished. Flaying a dead cow. Eating its flesh. Even if they are people of low caste, wandering everywhere. And if they happen to cherish with love Siva who concealed in his long matted hair Kankai. They are definitely Gods to whom we pay obeisance.

6.098 Marumarrattiruttantakam (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

We, who are the slave of Siva are not the subject of any king. We are not afraid of the God of death. We will not undergo torture in the hell, after death. We will not suffer distress in this life. We will be feeling joy always. We will not know what diseases are. We won’t go to anybody and stand before them submissively wanting anything. We will always enjoy happiness only; we have no suffering at any time. Cankaran, who is not the subject of anyone however great he might be. Having become the slave who cannot be freed from bondage to the Lord who wears in the right ear a men’s ear-ring made of defectless white conch. We approached as refuge the two red feet which are like the flower just blossomed and plucked.

2

The whole world to be our place. Those people who cook their food and eat after giving alms, will not prevent us from getting alms. Open spaces for the use of the public are places where we can stay. If we lie on the earth mother earth will not roll us down. This is not falsehood; this is truth. Siva who has a bull capable of fighting, accepted us. We will not be wanting in anything hereafter. We are free from all sufferings. Wearing costly clothes. And wearing ornaments of gold. Are we bound to obey the words of those kings who wander? We are free from all faults.

3

We have renounced the householder’s life when we are united with the wife who wears a bodice on her breasts. Hailing by uttering mateva, mateva’ we bathed before sunrise which is the time for waking up from sleep. We are shining in the beauty of the sacred ash with which we have smeared our body. The tears to flow like the rain which pours in winter. Our heart which was hitherto like the stone melted like a tender heart. Are we bound to obey the orders given by Kings who wander riding on an elephant, ruling over the earth? We have given up all attachments.

4

Our relations are many hosts of devotees of Siva, our dress is a loin-cloth and a strip of cloth used as a waist band. Our enemies will not be angry with us. When sinful acts will become definitely eminent by being transformed into virtuous acts. We will not be born again. We are able to utter the excellent Namasivaya which is the name of Siva who wears a fragrant garland of konrai which has abundant honey and is golden in color, by our tongue. We are clinging to the divine light who with his frontal eye of fire caused the cupid who had the flag of a shark, to fall as ashes.

5

We will not fall back, being second to anyone at any time, however great he may be. There is none who is equal to us, in this wide world we will not approach the inferior deities going to them for help. We approached the feet of the Lord, Siva only. We are not deficient in anything. The acute diseases filed from us without inflicting suffering from the day when we left the company of Jains. We are enjoying the fruits of the virtue of having been united with Siva who is the embodiment of all virtues and who wears on his head a garland of skulls belonging to those who had died.

6

Being the first form of the three forms of Ayan, Vishnu and Uruttiran [the cause of the three forms of Ayan, Vishnu and Uruttiran is another meaning] those who are able to utter the name of the Siva who has a holy form like the red coral, and who is praised by the superior human beings and the thirty three celestials, as the God who has eight forms only those have the right to Lord over us (therefore) we are not to submit to the orders of the King even if he be the Lord of whole of India. The reason for it is that we are without cruel acts and deceit.

7

Being things which do not move and things which move. The earth and the water. Being the fire and the air. Being the extensive sky. Being the small and big things. Being the rare things. Within easy reach of those who have love towards him. Being the supreme being which could not be measured by any means. Being Catacivam Siva who has the nature of being himself and myself. We are duty bound to talk about Siva good and graceful things. Shall we speak things which people with low intelligence, speak? (as) we are without any fault.

8

We meditated daily (on) the Lord of the universe. The master of every world. The master of the celestials who do not wink. Who has much brightness like the fire. Who has smeared white sacred ash on his red body. Who loves, and is loved by the beautiful daughter of the King of mountains. We completely forgot on that day itself all words that we were asked to remember, by the Jains who eat from their hands using them as plates, in the standing posture. Who are you, that have come on one as kings mission? Who is he that is named king?

9

Siva has a matted hair. Wears a men’s ear-ring in the right ear. Has a bull, and a body on which he wears cobras and smears sacred ash. Has as upper cloth the tiger’s skin. We are as dress in the waist a skin of a deer which has white spots like silver; has us as his protege. We have no business to obey the command of the King who has a standing army, along with you. We are in the nature of completely destroying all bondage.

10

We had the good fortune of singing the praises of Siva to the complete satisfaction of our tongue. We were separated from the Jains who discarded wearing clothes without any sense of shame, without befriending us. The master of the immortals admits us as protege, taking pity on us. The God above other Gods and who was difficult to be known to Ayan and Vishnu. Who has the name of Siva. Stayed reaching even my mind which is not a worthy place for him. Even if the Lord of the south quarter, the God of death, himself appears before me and commands me to do menial services, telling me about his superiority. We would not take it as the right things. We are captivated by the eight attributes of Siva.

6.099 Thiruppukaloor (10 verses)

Author: Appar

1

Siva who has the forms of all virtuous acts! Siva in beautiful Pumpukalur who is the embodiment of all virtuous acts! I who possess the power of thinking. What shall I think of desiring anything? What shall I think about except the feet of our Lord! I have no other thing to be seen. Except the desire of seeing your feet wearing kalal, with joined hands, I have no other support. You placed nine apertures in the body in which I dwell. I am incapable of thinking and seeing you when all the nine close simultaneously. I am coming to take shelter under your feet.

2

The God above the ordinary tevars, who is in Tiruppukalur! Siva who is as strong as the lion and who does not die or age even after consuming the poison that rose in the ocean, when the tevar requested you to consume it, without any other thought except saving the celestials from death. You adorned yourself with bones. You danced in fire. You have atirai as your favourite star. You sat under the shade of the banyan tree (to impart spiritual wisdom and clear the doubts of the four sages). You rode on a bull which belongs to the bovine species. You have a spreading matted hair which has no defect. You admitted into your grace a cobra and a crescent removing their mutual enmity.

3

You who wear as a girdle a cobra which has a hood. You smear your body with sacred ash as white as milk. You wear in your ear an ear-ring made of conch which is as white as crystal quartz you had on one half a lady whose eyes are coated with collyrium and who speaks words as sweet as the melody-type which has all the seven scales. You held in your hand a young deer. You gave full freedom for the deceitful robbers, the five senses, to play havoc with me. There is no mischief for them to do according to their-wish. I am entering your feet without uttering falsehood.

4

The God who destroyed with an arrow, soaked in blood, bending a mountain into a bow, the three forts of the acurar who had no clarity of mind, to be consumed by fire. You will remove the troubles in the minds of those who are not confused. You will cure diseases, being the proper medicine. Assuming the form of grace to the celestials. Being the cause of all things. Being the Vedas. You are the thing which Piraman seated on a flower and Vishnu who sleeps on the ocean, could not find in spite of their search.

5

Siva who has the right conduct and became eminent by placing a white crescent that gives light, without leaving the red matted hair on which there is water! One who receives alms in the very big dead skull! One who destroyed the cupid in the distant past. One who destroys the sins of devotees. Siva who has a neck which is like the very dark cloud. The lion which can give battle and covered himself with the skin of a black elephant of long trunk, to make it roar.

6

Siva who has a spreading matted hair. Brahmin among Gods! One who chanted the Vedas! Siva who is in venkatu of extensive gardens and in miyaccur. The God superior to other Gods, who burnt the three cities! One who dwells in mulattanam in tiruvarur. One who dwells in the minds of those who have good qualities to be acquainted with. Siva who is makalam! Siva in valanculi! My father in the eminent maraikkatu! One who has always a intertwining matted hair!

7

The God who is full of divinity. All the tevars. Piraman of four faces, intiran and Vishnu having searched for him, and scattering flowers at his feet, singing marai which is full in their tongues, dancing out of joy, and worship him. Siva who is in Kanapper which has parks and big gardens! Siva who dwells at the top of Kalukkunram! The God who transcends everything! I am entering into your golden feet which has brilliance.

8

Siva who bathes in ghee! Siva who is immaculate! One who has a blue neck! God who has fullness of everything. Siva who is well-versed in the Vedas. Siva who is the right conduct! God who has as half a young lady whose eyes are coated with collyrium! God who rejoiced in wearing the deer skin as a dress. I, who am your slave, uttering your names and placing garlands of konrai and leaves of bael just plucked. I am entering into your red lotus feet which never fail your devotees.

9

God who wears a stitched loin-cloth! God who smears pure sacred ash! Holding a weapon of a battle-axe which is white by sharpening, and very much shining. Siva who has the unique nature of placing on the matted hair which is coiled into a crown, a crescent which approached him, cool, crescent, cobra and water and became thereby superior. God who has a young lady whose gait can be compared to the gait of the swan! God who adorns himself with a garland of bones! God who is the first cause! I am entering into your feet wearing Kalal made of gold.

10

My mind will not know except you who is unequalled. Having ordered on me the five sense which are unsteady in my inner feeling which are visible to the eye. To you who gave full freedom to these. I have no fullness of love. Siva who has a mountain that fought with which you controlled with your leg and prevented the fast chariot from flying above the mountain, Kayilai, which belonged to the King of Ilankai which has a sea-shore garden surrounded by black mountains in which cardamom was grown.

Sundarar

7.001 Thiruve’n’ney:nalloor (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

Siva who has the name of pittan! Who wears a crescent on the head! God as Siva! One who is full of grace! The father who dwells in the temple Arulturai in Vennainallur on the southern bank of the river Pennai! How do I think of you without forgetting. You placed you in my mind (that is the reason). Therefore by all means I think of you without forgetting. Having become your slave even before. Is it proper on my part to argue now that I am not your slave?

2

The Lord who has the hard of living beings in the temple Arulturai in Vennainallur on the southern bank of the river pennai which flows filled with bamboos! I, who am as low as the dog. Without thinking of you in my mind for many days during my early age. I have received your grace which is very difficult to get. Having become a slave to you who came to bestow on me your grace. Is it proper on my part to argue now that I am not your slave?

3

Siva who is as kind as the mother and who dwells in the temple arulturai in Vennainallur on the Southern bank of the river Pennai which pushes gold, diamonds and other precious stones, its waves dashing against both the banks, and which flows with brightness! Lord! I am always thinking of you in mind without forgetting. Having become your slave long before. Is it proper for me to argue now I am not your slave?

4

God in Arulturai in Vennai Nallur on the southern bank of the river Pennai which is full of splendour! Who rides on a bull! Having been your slave before. Is it proper for me to counter-argue now that I am not your slave? (as you clarified my mind removing the inconsistency) I shall not die. I shall not be born hereafter. If I am destined to be born and live in this world I am unable to bear the sufferings of old age. You guard me with special care, me I have gone astray from the right path and talk only lies.

5

The first cause of all things who dwells in the temple Arulturai in Vennainallur on the southern bank of the river Pennai which is full of minerals! God who is full of grace! Having been a slave to you before. Is it proper on my part to counter-argue now, that I am not your slave? I have no intelligence. Therefore I am an ignorant person. I am the meaning of the word atan! Though I am such an unfit person, please grant me the boons that people who worship your feet, receive without despising me.

6

Siva who wears the cool crescent. Who has a holy form which is red like fire. You laughed to make the fire consume all the three cities of the enemies who did not esteem you. The elderly God in the temple in Arulturai in Vennainallur on the southern bank of the river Pennai which cleans the sins of those who bathe. Having been your slave before. Can I counter-argue now that I am not your slave? Is it proper on my part?

7

Siva who always remains in the temple Arulturai, without leaving it, in Vennainallur on the southern bank of the river Pennai, which is full of honey! You are the life in the bodies, which knows all things and are those bodies in which life exists. You are the world. You are the sky, the earth, the ocean and the mountain. Having been your slave before is it proper on my part to counter-argue now that I am not your slave?

8

Siva who is the right path and who dwells in the temple Arulturai in Vennainallur on the southern bank of the river Pennai! You destroyed by discharging an arrow from the bow for the fire to consume all the three cities of those who opposed you in battle. You received the water of the celestial Kankai on your matted hair which is like the red sky. speaking such words as revealing my ignorance of your greatness shall I wander without any benefit to me? According to that wandering nature, having been your slave before, is it proper for me now to counter-argue that I am not your slave?

9

Siva who holds the weapon of a battle-axe on the right side? Who chanted the Veda-s! Who has a lady as a half! The beautiful God who dwells in the temple Arulturai in Vennainallur on the southern bank of the fertile river Pennai! Your function is to remove the sufferings of those who worship you with joined hands. (therefore you came voluntarily to admit me as your protege; without knowing that, and denying the fact that I was your slave before, is it proper now on my part to counter-argue that I am not your slave?

10

Receiving the water that falls from the clouds. Eroding the banks with the waves which are like hands. Getting the fame that spreads throughout the world. Pushing several big and glittering precious stones. Is it proper on my part having been a slave to my Lord who dwells in the temple Arulturai in Vennainallur on the southern bank of the river Pennai whose reputation spreads everywhere; now to counter-argue that I am not your slave?

7.020 Thirukkoa’lili (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

My Lord in Kolili! I got a little quantity of paddy in Kuntaiyur so that paravai, who has eyes like the sword may not be distressed pining away thinking she could not run the household. I worship you with joined hands daily, fixing all my thoughts on you since a long time. There are no porters to bring them to arur. Order somebody to carry and bring them to arur.

2

The Lord who has on one half Umai, a lady of distinction, who has tresses of hair on which bees settle! Our brahmin who burnt the three cities of the enemies! Our master in tirukkolili surrounded by long fields which have clear waves in the water! Who is the whole universe!

3

Siva! You placed a lady on one half of your person. Placed the river, Kankai on the spreading matted hair. You too know fully well the distress of the good-natured ladies of the house-hold life when there is want. Siva who is older than all others! One who is capable of performing wonders! I got a small quantity of paddy in Kuntaiyur surrounded by defectless gardens!

4

What is there for me to tell you? Are there any persons who slandered you for wedding Umai, the lady of distinction who has lips red as the common creeper of the hedges and keeping her in your left side? I got a small quantity of paddy in Kuntaiyur which has forest tract in which the crops of the dry land are grown. Order somebody to carry and bring them to arur for your slave, removing his sufferings.

5

Siva with three eyes who has as a half Umai whose teeth are white as the arabian jasmine flowers! The pacupatan who wanders receiving alms in the white skull which seems to laugh with its teeth! Our Lord in tirukkolili which has forest tract where crops of the dry land are grown.

6

You have on one half Umai the lady of distinction who adorns her tresses of hair with flowers of bottle flower tree. You too know fully well the suffering of paravai due to hunger. I got a small quantity of paddy in Kuntaiyur surrounded by garden in which the bottle-flower trees are eminent. Siva who tied cobras!

7

I shall praise always you only who is my Lord, fixing my thoughts on you. Siva who desired on one half a lady who has fragrant tresses of hair! Our Lord in tirukkolili surrounded by mansions where there is superior gold. Order somebody to carry and bring it to arur bestowing love on me.

8

Our supreme Lord who crushed the heads and hands of the arakkan. Paravai who has a broad waist like the hood of the cobra is pining away. I got a small amount of paddy in Kuntaiyur where group of monkeys jump in the trees. Order somebody to carry and bring it to arur taking pity on me as I have no help of porters.

9

The master whose feet and head could not be seen by the old Vishnu who dug the earth in search of the head and by Piraman who flew into the sky in search of the feet, they becoming exhausted. Our Lord in tirukkolili surrounded by fields having water with clear waves! Order somebody to carry it and bring it to my house in arur, as I have no porters.

10

On Siva who dwells with desire in Kolili which has forest region and produce of dry lands. The native of tirunavalur which is praised by good people. Requesting him to order some porters to carry and deliver the paddy in his house at tiruvarur. Those who are capable of reciting the ten verses with which he praised Siva fixing his thoughts on him. Will certainly rule over heaven, having weeded all sufferings in this world.

7.024 Thirumazhapaadi (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

Siva who has a divine body like gold? Having fastened a tiger’s skin in the waist. One who adorned his red matted hair which is like the lightning, with shinning konrai flowers! The chief! You who are as highly valuable as a big ruby! The ruby in malapati! One who is as affectionate as a mother! Whom else shall I think now except you?

2

You who besmeared yourself with the holy ash and having worn a loin-cloth with a piece if cloth used as waist-band! I approached your feet themselves as my refuge. My master! You please receive me as your protege. One who has as his half a lady whose eyes are like sword. The ruby in malapati. Whom else shall I think now except you as my relation?

3

Siva who is as precious as a ruby in malapati surrounded by thriving groves of mango trees on which the cloud seems to crawl! These relations like my father and mother will not be of even a small amount of support to me. Thinking of them as my companions, I was born in this birth which is not permanent and died; I became completely tired. Whom else shall I think now except you?

4

Siva who is as valuable as a ruby in malapati surrounded by flower-gardens where bees hum noisily. I am your serf since time immemorial when you accepted me as your protege. I definitely performed service to all the devotees of your devotees. I effaced, without even a trace of it, the fault which was the cause for not having any correction with you or with your devotees. Siva dwelling in heaven! Whom else shall I think now except you?

5

Being the knowledge. Being the objects which are desired by the living beings in the seven worlds. Being the sweet tamil which is full of music. The supreme light which transcends all things! The God who is as valuable as a ruby in malapati surrounded by flower-gardens which beautify that place. Siva who is older than all and therefore is in the relation of elder brothers to all! Whom else shall I think now except you?

6

Before the last day approaches and afflicts me. I came to you only as your protege. You receive your humble servant too. The ruby in malapati who grants everlasting life! Having become your humble servant, whom else shall I think now except you?

7

One who wears an ear-ring which has joints! Siva who bears a crescent on the matted hair. One who smears white, well burnt and good holy ash! Able person w What is there for me to tell you? Are there any persons who slandered you for wedding Umai, the lady of distinction who has lips red as the common creeper of the hedges and keeping her in your left side? I got a small quantity of paddy in Kuntaiyur which has forest tract in which the crops of the dry land are grown. Order somebody to carry and bring them to arur for your slave, removing his sufferings. ho rides on a bull! the ruby in malapati surrounded by very beautiful gardens. My father! Whom else shall I think now except you!

8

Siva who stood steadfast in impartiality and granted your grace when the hot sun of radiating rays and other superior groups of tevar scattered flawless flowers and worshipped you! The ruby in malapati surrounded by flower gardens on which clouds settle master! Whom else shall I think now except you!

9

Siva who is the right path to living beings! One who is not contaminated by the impurities of the soul! The object of meditation and prayer for tall Vishnu and Ayan (Piraman) one who has benign qualities! The husband of Umai who has a beautiful waist like a creeper! One who holds in his palm a young deer! The ruby in malapati! The embodiment of all knowledge! Whom else shall I think now except you?

10

On Siva who made use of the bow to burn the beautiful three cities. And the one who dwells in malapati along with a lady wearing a bodice on her breast. The people of this world who can praise Siva with the tamil verses composed by aruran who is the important person in the far-famed navalur. Will live happily in the superior civalokam.

7.029 thirukkurukaavoor ve’l’ladai (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

The Lord in the shrine vellatai in Kurukavur! Our Lord! I did not know before the reason for bestowing upon me so much grace. All others will speak about you as a definitely mad man. Are you not the source from which rubies, pearls and other precious stones sprouted.

2

Did you not get me into your good grace, preventing my life not to become useless? The Lord in the shrine, vellatai in Kurukavur where Kavi (red water lily), blue nelambo, lotus and purple indian water-lily are to be found in every sluice of the tank into which the carp fish jumps from the stream of water running in a river bed.

3

The Lord in the shrine, vellatai in Kurukavur! You will remove the hunger of those who sing your praise. You will weed out the diseases of those who praise you in other ways! You who wander with a skull as a good bowl to get food to eat! You who have the appropriate form for dancing in the dense darkness having the cremation ground as a good stage!

4

You admitted me into your grace by removing all diseases including fever! The Lord who is in the shrine vellatai in Kurukavur where young swans of indescribable beautiful gait, which live in the tank having flowers in which the bright blue nelunbo flowers which are comparable to each other.

5

Did you not get me admitted me into your grace preventing the blemish that could come to me, as not to approach me! You have smeared yourself with powdered white ash and has konrai flowers on which bees settle. The Lord vellatai in Kurukavur, which has abundant jasmine in the garden and white lily in the big tank which has buds and flowers.

6

You are like the sweetness in music. You are like the sweet taste found in fruits. You are as precious as the apple of the eye. You are like the light in the midst of dense darkness. You who are in the outer-space, is the protecting Lord, vellatai in Kurukavur, so that sufferings may not enter into the minds of devotees in this world.

7

The Lord in the shrine vellatai in Kurukavur. Chief who admitted me into your grace removing even the time what I should die! It was you who came to my help not to allow me to bear patiently my difficulties. Even if the servants of the God of death come and inflict pain on me. I will not know anybody except you, as my help.

8

The Lord in the shrine vellatai in Kurukavur. You will completely remove the confusion in the minds of your devotees who are unperturbed. Even if the servants of the God of death who has strength and anger which can inflict pain, come to me to make me perplexed. It is you who will prevent me from undergoing acute sufferings.

9

The Lord in vellatai in Kurukavur! You will have good people admitted into your grace only, without making them suffer by worshipping many minor Gods. You who wander with the dress of a skin! You will have them dressed in good clothing and have them adorned with gold jewels. It is you who will have the bad people, destroyed. You will have me permitted to enter your feet as precious as gold, which do not know destruction.

10

On the Lord who resides in the shrine, vellatai in Kurukavur which radiates light and which is beautiful adorned by fields having abundant crops and gardens yielding rich produce. Aruran who is the father of vanappakai, the younger sister of cinkati. The garden of tamil verses which came out of his warm mind. Will serve as a garland of praise to the devotees to praise the Lord [Kotpuli nayanar, heard about the fame of cuntarar and invited him to his place, nattiyattankuti; he performed puja and fed him and requested him to marry his two daughters, cinkati and vanappakai; aruran did not comply with his request but adopted them as his own daughters at the end of every patikam sung after this, he described himself as the father of cinkati or venappakai, or both.]

7.034 Thiruppukaloor (11 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

Poets! Though you speak flattering words praising them. And though you are always by their side. Without praising the hypocrites who are a bundle of lies and who are slaves to worldly pleasures. Praise the greatness of pukalur of our father. He will supply you in this birth itself plenty of food and clothing. You can increase your fame. The perishing of sufferings will also take place. There is not the slightest doubt to rule in civalokam after death.

2

Poets! Even though you praise one who has no strength as viman. Even though you praise one this person is victorious Vicayan himself in archery. even though you praise one who does not give anything he is pari himself in liberality ப there is no one who will give you what you want. Sing the fame of pukalur of our God who is the embodiment of all virtues and has a body smeared with holy ash. There will not be the slightest doubt to rule in the world of the celestials which is above the pile of several worlds.

3

Poets! Even if you praise a person who has no landed property, he has extensive lands as his possession! He is learned and has good conduct. Protecting Kinsmen and relations. Even though you praise he will be hospitable to guests there is no one who will give you anything you want. Sing the fame of cool pukalur where the birds in the fields make a big noise when the farmers yoke the oxen and plough the fields. There is not the slightest doubt for you to rule over the heaven residing there as linch-pin to the cart of that world.

4

Poets! Hairs having turned grey all over the body. the body having become decrepit. Having senility in an advanced stage. There is no one who will give anything even though you bless this old man whose legs are quivering with old age, as one who possesses globular shoulders as strong as the mountain. Sing the praises of pukalur which is the abode of Siva who is the embodiment of all virtues and who has a superior white bull. There is not the slightest doubt to rule over the heaven having become its King.

5

Poets! About one who is a fraudulent person. A wicked person. One who commits sins. One who has no right conduct one who commits the five heinous sins of killing, lying, stealing, drinking and abusing one’s guru. Even if you praise him as the good virtuous person there is no one who will give anything. Sing the praises of pukalur of Siva who is the embodiment of all virtues and who has a golden matted hair. (if you do so) completely destroying the afflictions of the mind. There is not the slightest doubt to save yourselves.

6

Praising one who is ugly as having much beauty. Praising one who has grey hairs as a youth. No one will give anything even if you say about one who has no noble lineage as having noble birth. Sing the praises of beautiful pukalur where all fields spread the fragrance of lotus flowers. These is not be the slightest doubt to rule over heaven without being confounded, permanently.

7

Poets! Praising a sickly person as having big shoulders. Even though you say in public that mean persons are like the excellent mother overflowing in love towards poets. There is no one who will give you anything. Without going to people, wandering becoming feeble and suffering from sinking of the eyes. Sing the praises of pukalur of our father. There is not the slightest doubt to rule ever heaven having gone there, without affliction.

8

Poets! Even if one is so miserly as to search for a grain of sesame where it fell on the ground. Even if he does not give any thing to the small fly. There is no one to give you anything even if you praise them as a person of unbounded liberality! You who are our strength! Sing the praises of beautiful pukalur where all birds go and flock together. There is not the slightest doubt to save yourselves from sinking into the mire of worldly life.

9

Poets! No one will give you anything even if you praise a person who has no learning as having vast erudition and good qualities, is beautiful like the cupid, and who has no ripe knowledge and age, as one who possess those two things. Sing the praise of pukalur where the noise of the owls which like in the hollows of trees never cease. There is not the slightest doubt about your ruling over the heaven becoming its masters.

10

Poets! There is none to give you anything even if you emphatically assert that a person who has a detestable appearance is as beautiful as cupid himself, and as one who has a beautiful, personality to be admired at among all males, as and the second of Murukan who holds a vel in his hand. Sing the praises of pukalur where the buffaloes dive into the natural big tanks and small tanks. There is not the slightest for you to rule over heaven having become its masters.

11

On the Lord who dwells in beautiful pukalur where fertile lotus flowers grow tall in the fields. A native of navalur which has gardens having honey. The father of vanappakai. The son of matted hairyan. Those who are capable of singing the ten verses composed by uran who has the title of vanrontan. There is not the slightest doubt about they reaching the feet of Siva who is the embodiment of all moral virtues, entering civalokam after death.

7.038 thiruvathikai veeraddaanam (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

Is there any one who by nature does not know his chief? (there is none) I who am as low as a dog, and who am without intelligence, desiring that the God who has a black neck will place his feet on my head. Siva who wears a crescent on the matted hair. Who rides on a bull and who is different from the world. who has a skin of an elephant of long trunk. Who dances in the scorched cremation ground. Who has a flag of a bull. Who is my Lord. Perhaps I was negligent for a moment about the Lord who dwells in Virattam on the north bank of Ketilam which throws waves, when he came to place his feet on my head, without knowing its greatness; Alas! What a pity my ignorance was so great! Perhaps it would not happen at any time here after.

2

What did I lose before he admitted me as his protege by forgetting him? What did I gain by always remembering him? I live without forgetting him in my mind after he admitted me as his protege. I shall praise you only thinking about you, as gold’ flawless gem, white pearl, hill made of red coral and the Lord of the universe. Who is desired by the immortals as our mother, our father, who dwells in the big city of Atikai. I was perhaps negligent about my Lord who dwells in Virattanam on the north bank of the Ketilam which throws waves, for a moment, when he came to place his feet on my head, Alas! What a pity my ignorance was so great. It would not occur at any time hereafter.

3

My father who adorned his matted hair with the Kankai, a lady of distinction who came in the form of water, when there was already a loving lady on one half of the body, was gracious enough to cause to sleep together a crescent which does not wax, a cobra with lines on it. And the Lord who dwells in the Virattanam on the northern bank of Ketilam which dashes its floods on the banks. The Lord of the celestials! Thinking of him in my mind as the sweet sugar-cane, which is praised without ceasing by the people of this world, my sweet jaggery’. To me who desired him. As my fate did not leave my mind. I was perhaps negligent for a small moment when he came to adorn my head with his feet. What a pity my ignorance was so great. This will not occur again here after at anytime.

4

The unequalled God who is superior to the three Gods, Piraman, Vishnu and Urattiran. The supreme being who is united with me without separate identity. The perfect soul in Nallaru, the righteous conduct in Vellaru. Who is himself the air, the fire, the ocean, who dwells on the peak of the mountain, Kayilayam. Who contained on his head the puddle of swift river of flood of Kankai. Who wears a crescent. who is my father. Who is the chief of my father also. Who has a bull of red eye, and who could not be comprehended by anyone however great he may be. And who dwells in Virattanam on the northern bank of the Ketilam which hurls waves. I was perhaps negligent for a small moment when he came to adorn my head with his feet, out of ignorance. What a pity my ignorance was so great! This will not occur again hereafter.

5

Siva who has the beautiful color and affection of the daughter of the mountain who is the mother of Murukan. Who dwells in the great temple of Atikai. Having rejoiced when he received in the matted hair Kankai who is in the form of water, who has tresses of hair hanging low and words as sweet as the voice of the indian cuckoo. Shining when the groups of carp fish jump. When the floods swell in it. Bending the catampa tree by the rising waves. Taking in a sweep sandal wood trees growing in the mountain. To occupy the ocean where waves roll up and down. I was perhaps negligent for a small moment about the Lord who dwells in Virattanam on the north bank of the Ketilam whose abundant water throws waves, when he came to adorn my head with his feet. What a pity my ignorance was so great! This thing will not happen again hereafter.

6

Our God, Siva who has a beautiful blue neck like the cloud. The great ascetic who adorned himself with the tusk of a strong hog. The chief of the celestials. Who has on his matted hair a cool crescent and a cobra which are tossed about as they are afraid of each other. Who has the skin of an elephant of must, cruel and proud, which has victory to its credit and lives in the slopes of the mountain. Who is the right conduct mentioned in the Vedas. Our master who smears his body with white sacred ash; I was perhaps be negligent for a small moment the Lord who dwells in Virattanam on the north bank of Ketilam which throws waves on the banks, when he came to adorn my head with his feet without knowing that he was Siva. What a pity my ignorance was so great! This thing will not occur again hereafter.

7

Siva who granted the gain of eternal bliss taking much pity on the souls which are perplexed being caught in the cruel acts which are like an ocean, bestowing his grace on them. Who is the destroyer of all things. Who is our God who has eight shoulders and a neck like the cloud. who made one half of his body the half of a lady. Who has the color of the red sky. Who has a matted hair in which the cobra with a cruel mouth dances spreading its hood. Who discharged an arrow to burn the three cities. I was perhaps negligent about the Lord who dwells in Virattanam on the northern bank of the river Ketilam which throws waves on the banks, for a small moment, when he came to adorn my head with his feet; what a pity my ignorance was so great! This will not happen again hereafter.

8

Siva who is the father of beautiful Vinayakan who has elephant’s face and Murukavel, who has a vehicle of peacock. Siva who is in the southern country and stood placing his feet on Netumaran who did not think of conquering countries in the west; north and east and annexing them to his own; who is as red as the evening red sky. Who is the Lord of the immortals. Who covers himself with the skin of an elephant. Who dwells in the great temple of Atikai. Who is mine. I was perhaps a little negligent for a little moment when the Lord came to adorn my head with his feet, being ignorant that he was the Lord. What a pity my ignorance was so great! This thing will never happen again hereafter.

9

Siva who took upon himself the act of fighting, and destroying all the three cities of the inimical and cruel avunar to burn by bending the bow and discharging a single arrow. Who has a skin of a elephant of must and big legs. Who sat on the mountain without leaving it, and who pressed down the form of the arakkan which was dreadful, like that of the pey and who had twenty big shoulders and ten heads and who did not consider as a sin to uproot the mountain. I was perhaps a little bit negligent for a little moment when the Lord came to adorn my head with his feet, being ignorant that he was God. What a pity my ignorance was so great! This thing will not happen again hereafter.

10

Upon Siva who adorned himself with bones as ornaments. Who is our Lord who rides on a bull. The son of icainani [icainani is the mother of cuntarar] the chief of Navalur which has groves of strong palmyra trees growing tall. Van Tontan. Who is the Lord, the embodiment of love and who was spoken without esteem by me. Who is the Lord of the Tevar and who cannot be comprehended by anybody however great he may be. Who dwells in the great city of Atikai who is as valuable as gold to me. I was perhaps a little negligent for a short while when the Lord came to adorn my head with his feet, being ignorant that he was God. What a pity my ignorance was so great! This thing will not happen again here after.

7.039 Tirut Tontattokai (5 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

I who am known by the name of aruran and who am the slave to the God, as father in arur. The slave of the devotees of the brahmins who are in Tillai. The slave of Tirunilakantar of the potter caste. Am the slave of Iyarpakai who never said “I have nothing to give” to supplicants. Am the slave of the devotees of Maran of Ilayankuti. Am the slave of Meypporul who was very greatly victorious on his belief. Am the slave of Viralmintar who was a native of Cenkunrur which has extensive gardens. Am the slave of Amarniti who wears a beautiful garland of arabian jasmine, having inner petals.

2

Am the slave of the eminent person of distinction who holds a weapon of sharp edge. Am the slave to the devotees of enati natan. Am the slave to Kannappan, the elite among men, who is highly eulogized. Am the slave to the devotees of Kalayan of Katavur. Am the slave to both Manakkancaran of unbounded liberality and who had strong shoulders like the mountain, and Tayan who had a sickle and who never was lax in his service to God. Am the slave to anayan of Mankai which has plenty of water having waves.

3

Am slave to Murtti also who ruled the Pantiyanatu with the help of three things [That is: sacred ash, uruttirakkam and matted hair coiled into a crown]. Am slave to Murukan and Uruttira Pacupati. Am slave to Nandanar who was otherwise called tirunalaippovar who went to Citamparam with a steady mind. Am slave to the devotees of Tirukkuripputtontar. am slave to the great Canti who approached the feet of Siva who was capable of granting eternal bliss and who cut his father’s feet with a battle axe, [the father out of anger, rose to commit some wrong things and actually committed them, when Canti was worshipping the holy form of Siva (an improvised lingam of sand) net as a child’s play but the continuation of the act of having performed worship in previous births].

4

Am the slave the devotees of Tirunavukkaraiyan who thought that the rectitude which has permanent happiness is the only moral uprightness. Am the slave to the devotees of Kulaccirai who had the title of Perunampi. Am the slave to Perumilaikkurumpar and Peyar; [Peyar is Karaikkalammaiyar; she get the body of a pey as a boon from Lord Siva; she refers to herself as Karaikkarpey in three of her four works included in the eleventh Tirumurai.] Am slave to the devotees of Apputi who is an eminent person without equal. Am the slave to Nilanakkan who is a native of Cattamanakai which is surrounded by roaring water. Am the slave to the devotees of Nanti who is an eminent person of rare distinction.

5

Am the slave of the devotees of Campantan, our Lord, who did not worship the feet of any other God except the feet of Siva who wears konrai flowers with honey which blossom to add fragrance to the bees with lines and from which fragrance never; am the slave of the devotees of eyar Kon Kalikkaman. Am the slave of the devotees of Tirumulan, our master. Am slave to Tanti who got perfect eyesight though born blind through the grace of Siva, and murkkan, am the slave of Comaci Maran who was a native of Ampar.

7.045 Thiruvaamaaththoor (11 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

I saw the master who is in amattur as the husband of Umaiyal. He admitted me as his protege. I became the slave of the Lord in amattur, many times. These things are not false statements. I shall tell you further more. Please hear what I say. I parted company with those who are not well versed in the Veda-s.

2

I shall sing the praises of the feet of the Lord of the world . I shall search for them to embrace them firmly as my support. I shall try to join the God in amattur without any blemish or my part, according to my idea. I shall dance out of ecstasy born out of that.

3

Our God in amattur. Destroyed in the past Kaman (cupid) by the fire that issued from the frontal eye. Sprang upon the God of death ago and made him perish, by kicking him with his leg. Understood everything by investigation. Placed suitably our Goddess, Umai, on one half completely.

Internally I investigated and came to know the brilliant thing in the heart. Going long that way I was in communion with that thing. Entering into tiruvorriyur. Externally I was connected with the soft shoulders and big breasts of cankili (This decade should have been sung after his marriage with cankili in tiruvorriyur). I enjoyed to the full by these two ways the two kinds of pleasures. This was due to the grace of the master in amattur.

5

The master in amattur. Siva gained a victory over the celestials in the sacrifice of takkan. Went in the streets for a small quantity of alms. Stayed permanently with those who are full of right conduct. His granting the grace is on the very day when people reach him.

6

(The Lord in amattur) is easy to be seen by his devotees. Rose high as a column of fire to be searched by Piraman of four faces and naranan being the God who could not be seen by both of them. He ruled over amattur and accepted me as his protege. Adorned chest with a sacred thread of three strands to roll over it.

7

The God in amattur. Is the thought of the living beings in the seven worlds. Is the eye to those who try to have a vision of him out of love. he has on one half of his body a lady. Has a peacock’s feather as an ornament on the head. Is fit to be approached as refuge.

8

The Lord in amattur is as valuable as gold to his devotees. he is the bright light like the lightning, who won over me not to go away from him giving me gold. He has such a nature which is the secret meaning of the Vedas. He is my relation by right. I feel pleasure by meditating upon him in my mind with love.

\

9

I shall search the feet of the God in amattur which are like red lotus flowers, daily. I shall meditate on him in the anakata cakram which is located at a distance of four fingers above the navel; [anakatam; a cakra in the body, described a twelve-petalled lotus, situate above manipurakam and in the region of the heart; one of the six ataram.] I shall attach him within me, by my strong hands with joy if he tries to get out. I shall perform dances fitting his greatness.

10

I left my relations and approached the God who is in my heart. I grasped the red feet which are like lotus, to reach them finally. I got severed from all sufferings. I had the good fortune of becoming the slave of the devotees of Siva who is in amattur, in order that I might not be born again and again.

11

On Siva who is the master of all. Who is the father. Who is the God in amattur. Who is eternal. Who is the pure one and the true one to those who have a truthful mind. Who is the cloud that can rain grace. Who has a neck that is black like the cloud. The verses composed by nampi aruran, vantontan. Those who utter repeated by without the slightest falsehood. Will certainly reach the golden feet of Siva.

7.048 Thiruppaa’ndikkodumudi (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

God who is the form of severe penance and who dwells at Pantikkotumuti in famous Karaiyur which is worshipped and praised by learned people! As there is no other support for me. I meditated upon your holy feet only. As I did so. I enjoyed the good fortune of being born as a human being. I got the state of not-being born again in this world. Even if I may forget you. My tongue will be uttering your name, “Namasivaya” without ceasing.

9

My friend in Pantikkotumuti which the river Kaviri of rising water worship and praises bringing with it a garland circular in shape! I, who was desired by you. Those days when I was despised by devotees who praise your feet, as a fickle minded person. And those days when I forgot you which were the cause for their despising me. I would consider those days as wasted days only, I would not think otherwise.

3

Supreme being as the light divine! The great orator who is in Pantikkotumuti where the cool floods of the Kaviri with water spreads coming to that place! The days when I did not think of you. I would not consider otherwise the days when I lost consciousness, when life leaves my body and I am carried on a funeral bier which is carried high, except as wasted.

4

Our master whose fame is limitless! The master of my father! Who is like my gold! Who is like the big gem in my possession. Pushing out stones. Pouring abundantly wealth everywhere. On the bank of the flowing Kaviri. God of ability who dwells at pantikkotumuti in Karaiyur which good people worship with joined hands and praise!

5

Siva who has a neck made beautiful by poison and who is in pantikkotumuti where the ladies who are as beautiful as a portrait and whose feet are painted with red-cotton dye plunge and bathe! With the thought that you afford protection to those who are afraid of the cycle of birth and death, and seek refuge in you. I too who is your slave was very much afraid of that, and sought refuge in you you granted your grace to me who is your slave saying Do not fear. What do you lose by that?

6

Beautiful God who tied on the waist a dancing cobra on the skin of the tiger which is capable of killing! The supreme being as the light divine! The great God who is in pantikkotumuti where the cool water comes and flows into the beautiful and cool Kaviri! [when all things are destroyed Siva only remains, surviving all of them is another meaning]. You wore a crescent that shines in the sky which resembles the petal of a flower. What is there after that to praise about your affording protection to those who surrender to you [The moon sought the protection of Siva when he lost all phases except one on account of Takkan’s curse; Siva wore it on his head and granted it the life of waxing and waning]

7

God who is liked by all and who dwells in pantikkotumuti on the bank of the Kaviri where the fertile gardens are close to one another and beautifully situated, and where the young girls who are like soft garlands and have breasts like immature coconuts dive and bathe! I meditated upon your feet only cherishing them with love. All my acts got separated from me.

8

Siva who has a matted hair like superior gold! Who bent the bow for the fire to rise in the three cities! Having placed with desire a lady from whose tresses of hair fragrance spreads. Siva fit to be desired who is in pantikkotumuti on the bank of the Kaviri, where on the branches of trees the great peacocks dance when the indian cuckoo cries!

9

Siva, the cause of all things, who is at the temple pantikkotumuti in Karaiyur, and who is worshipped by naranan and Piraman! Countless tevar. One who is the shelter for all things! Father! Our master! The master of my father! My gold! Big gem! Praising like this prating these names, are incapable of leaving you.

10

On Siva who wore a curved crescent. The God who desired pantikkotumuti in Karaiyur. Pittan who is the destroyer of all things. One who is not born; who wears garlands of konrai on which the bees with lines move to and fro with humming music. And who has a waist cord of a cobra which has a hood. Those who are able to recite these words of the devotee, Nampi aruran, will not have sufferings

7.049 Thirumurukanpoo’ndi (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

In the big city of Murukan Punti where vatukar whose bad body-odour spreads to a distance, live. The vatuka hunters who have cruel and bent bows, speaking unfriendly words. Wounding frightening, and rebuking authoritatively travellers by saying tituku and mottu. Is the place where they plunder on the highway and rob travellers of their clothes. For what purpose did you remain in this place with a young lady of small and minute waist? My Lord!

2

The hunters showing the bow, frightening and speaking unfriendly words, to travellers. Throwing stones at them. And dashing them against the earth. Robbing them of their clothes. In the big city Murukan Punti where the fragrance of the pollen of the arabian jasmine spreads our Lord! If you know well that there is nothing to guard this city’s boundaries, for what purpose did you remain here? My Lord!

3

Our Lord! Eating the flesh of the animals killing them. Those cruel people do not know even a little about sin. The place where they rob the travellers of their clothes and killing many lives daily, daringly. In the big city of Murukan punti where many hunters who rob people of their belongings like monkeys live. For what purpose did you remain here receiving alms, the reproach from that act to perish?

4

In the big city of Murukan punti where hunters noted for their savageness, live crowded. Speaking harsh words, inserting a small sword in the waist and wearing a torn cloth. Getting a share of the things robbed on the highway. Which is the place where daily they rob the clothes of travellers. For what purpose did you remain here if the legs of your bull have not become fractured and are in proper condition? My Lord!

5

God who does good to his devotees! Chanting the cama Veda. Wearing a shining skin Don’t you know even a little about the way to eat receiving alms given by the inhabitants of the village who have lost their senses listening to your chanting? In the big city of Murukan punti. With a lady wearing on her breasts ornaments and who embraces you. If you have the strength to move at least from this place. For what purpose did you remain here? My Lord!

6

You rejoice in hearing the music produced in the large hemispherical loud-sounding drum, this tuntumi which is beaten and sound in produced, tattalakam, Kotukotti and Kokkarai which produces sound with breaks. In the big city of Murukan punti where the buds blossom and spread their fragrance. If you eat the alms that is given to you and received by you. For what purpose did you remain here?

7

Our Lord! Chanting the Vedas. Smearing white sacred ash. Wearing a white men’s loin-cloth. You desire Orriyur which has waves by its side on account of the annual festival in uttaram. In the big city of Murukan Punti where the hunters dash against travellers and rob them of their clothes. For what reason and for protecting which thing for what purpose did you remain here?

8

You rejoiced in having as a half, Umai, a lady of distinction who is unsophisticated and has long eyes with streaks, shoulders like bamboos and a waist as minute as the cobra with a hood; you are not a lame person. You have no difficulty in going away from this place. If you can ride on the bull in the big city of Murukan Punti and leave this place. For what purpose did you remain here?

9

Our Lord! Smearing the sacred white ash as sandal paste. Holding as a begging bowl a skull which has white teeth. you rejoiced in placing on one side the chaplet of white crescent which you wore on your head. In the big city of Murukan punti where the sound of montai (a kind of drum with one face) and the roar of the hunters never cease. For what purpose did you remain here with a lady who wears superior ornaments on her breasts?

10

In the big city of murukanpunti which the celestials worship taking precedence over others. About Siva who placed on one half a beautiful lady who holds in her fingers a ball to play with. With the help of the ten verses which were composed by Nampi aruran who is a votary of Siva by his devotion. Those who praise our God will not have the slightest suffering.

7.051 Thiruvaaroor (12 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

I, a sinner and rude person. To give up my love and slavery to God Siva who is the pearl, big ruby and diamond. For how many days should I live separated from him? I realised the true nature of the body which is like a disease that has enveloped me. [I shall not stay here; I shall go to arur quickly and pay homage to him] [The sentences within brackets will apply to the following ten verses]

2

God who has an auspicious form and who opened his frontal eye of red color to reduce to ashes the victorious Matanan who has five different arrows of flowers. How could I live separated from my Lord in arur who is our rare nectar, who has a growing matted hair and a neck in which there is poison of black color?

3

I, an ignorant person who is born in this body which inflicts suffering. When the immortals came and worshipped Siva, because the poison in the big ocean in which there were conches scorched them. The father who became great by consuming the poison and removing their sufferings. And my master in arur. Without joining him. Why should I live separated in this place itself to die somewhere outside?

4

I, who was born in this world in the birth which is full of sufferings, and who is likely to forget myself not to forget God. The rare nectar and the rare remedy for all ills, who admitted me as his protege condescending to come to my humble native place, in a manner which baffles description by words. My Lord in arur, who holds in his hand a deer, and whose great form is like the hot fire. How could I live separated from him?

5

I, who is unable to shake off the irresistible acts. God who is such a great wealth that Ayan who has indescribable greatness and Vishnu could not know his true nature even though they meditate upon him. Without myself knowing him. Siva who has benign qualities to which the qualities of other Gods could not be compared. And who has no equal. Without joining my Lord in arur. In what manner shall I live being separated from him?

6

Bending and drawing the bow of a mountain, which had the strong serpent as the bow-string, Vishnu as the arrow, and the fire-God as the tip of the arrow, to come in contact with his chest. Who burnt the three cities. I who am a rude person who did not think of my Lord in arur and reach him earlier than this time. Carrying the body as a burden. For what useful purpose shall I live separated from him?

7

Without approaching. Making the chest of the God of death who came to snatch the life of his devotee (markanteyan) with a victory that never knew retreat, to be torn. The God of a beautiful form who became great by killing the God of death with his left foot, long ago. Who has a long matted hair glittering like lightning. Who rides upon a bull. And my Lord in arur. For what purpose shall live separated from his without knowing what to do.

8

The God as the sole cause who is praised and worshipped with joined hands by the celestials who are the models to be followed by others, joining together. Who is the path to be followed to reach that objective of bliss. The chief who is worshipped with joined hands by the other immortals. Who is the right path for his devotees. Who is like the tender shoot for the group of tevar; shall I live separated in this manner only to enjoy something knowing its usefulness?

9

Siva who has a frontal eye and who is as sweet as a great fruit when we meditate on him having studied sacred works teaching the truth. The unequalled God who occupies fully my mind. Who has the greatness of being meditated upon and praised by the two, Vishnu and Piraman, long ago. Being greatly separated from my Lord in arur from the beginning. Why should I stay here without dying, and with what purpose?

10

Being the seven notes of the diatonic scale. Being the pleasure derived from listening to music. Being the sweet nectar. Being my friend. And being the abattoir in the crimes I commit. And who admitted me as his slave giving me paravai who has bright eyes like the piece of tender mango cut longitudinally in two parts. And my Lord in arur. Shall I who am a foolish person without intelligence; stay in this place itself, separated from him!

11

Swallowing the poison that rose in the ocean which has a large number of ships, to save the celestials from dying. And giving them the nectar. Esteeming me who am an insignificant person as an important person and having compassion on me, to fulfill my request. The ultimate reality who united me with Cankili [Cankili was another consort of Cuntarar whom he married in Tiruvorriyur.] And my Lord in arur. Shall I, a wicked person, stay here itself to die somewhere?

12

Desiring the manner to approach the feet of Siva in arur where the fame of great people is eminent. On Siva who covers himself with the skin of a famous elephant having must. Those who are able to recite the words of aruran, who is the slave of God, in every place in this world are superior to all the people of this world in this respect.

7.053 thirukkadavoor mayaanam (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

The supreme God in Katavur Mayanam. Having worn a crescent and fragrant konrai flowers. Will come riding on a bull like the mountain of a ruby, with a lady, joy fully to be surrounded by an army of putams. Is the Lord of [big deities like] Tirumal, Piraman, Intiran, and [other smaller] tevar, inhabitants of the serpent world and tanavar.

2

Is the chief of the celestials. Wears on his chest a white sacred thread of three strands. Sings Vedas setting them to music. Has a frontal eye. Holds a laughing skull. Is the death-dealing God to the God of death himself. Is in Katavur. The master who burnt the three cities of the enemies. Has a male half and Umai the female half in his body.

3

The supreme God who dwells in the cremation ground where peys live. Dresses himself in the skin of an angry tiger. Has a neck stained by the poison. Is in Katavur and has eight arms. Is the chief who is himself the mother and father for the many living beings. Is the God in the most exalted place who eats receiving alms riding on a galloping bull.

4

Is the supreme God who reduced to ashes by the fire issuing from his frontal eye, the cupid who has arrows of five flowers which have honey in them. Grants to all what they wish without saying I have nothing to give. Has a matted hair on which he wears a crescent and dwells in Katavur where devotees who practise on mudavur and other leather instruments with vocal music, are crowding.

5

Wearing konrai which blossoms in bunches, and a crescent. Wearing as ornaments cobras which are capable of killing. Covering himself with the skin of a rutting elephant. Has ornaments of the hog’s tusk, and the shell of a tortoise as a tali. Is Siva who receives alms when the putams, cherish him with love, sing and dance.

6

Wearing tightly a loin-cloth and a long girdle of an ascetic which is usually a long strip of cloth. Smearing the ash in the cremation ground. Siva who has the appearance of a pacupatan who adorned his body with cobras. Who has the appearance of a mavirati wearing a sacred thread twisted with hair. Wears a strong and long mens’ earring. Is the warrior who set fire to all the three cities. Has a long matted hair tied into a bundle.

7

Has a neck in which he has stationed the poison that rose in a very black ocean. Resides in Katavur. Pressed with his toe the arakkan riding on a chariot, to make his body injured, falling down from that chariot. To Siva who has all the seven worlds, the important places are orriyur (a place that has been mortgaged); has one thousand names.

8

Feeling happy with a lady having breasts which do not diminish in beauty. Following the pig with a tusk in the forest assuming the form of a hunter. Coming near. Destroying Vicayan’s penance. Fighting with him without being recognised. Siva, who has a famous matted hair granted him a quirar and attitude in archery.

9

Will flay an elephant. possesses a battle-axe. Devastated the sacrifice performed by takkan. Cut off the heads of many tevar who assembled there. Will give a discus to ari (Vishnu). Will like being bathed in the five products of the cow. Will give philosophical discourse to four sages. Is the husband of a lady, Umai. Pervades in everything and everywhere. Holds in his hand a tender young deer; has a matted hair which contains many things like a box.

10

Desirings earnestly the fame of the supreme God who grants his grace to remove the afflictions of devotees and who dwells in the mayanam in Katavur where mansions are prosperous and the brahmins praise him. The sins of those who sing the good Tamil verses composed by the eminent among men, who is a native of Navalur and who has the name of aruran, and hear them sung, will disappear by degrees.

7.055 Thiruppunkoor (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

God in tiruppunkur which has fertile gardens! When the antanalan (brahmin, markanteyan) sought refuge in you. In order to save him (from death). I who am a holy slave to you who snatched away the precious life of the kalan [God of death]. My father! Coming to you with the idea that if the servants of the God of death afflict me, you will prevent it by saying He is my devotee! I approached your holy feet; please accept me.

2

The copious rains having failed throughout the world; There is no water in the fields; we will offer you many lands when the people of tiruppunkur implored you by saying Take it into your mind to save us from drought. The bright white clouds that spread everywhere (having turned into sable clouds) and having stopped the enormous floods caused by the pouring of excessive rains everywhere. Knowing your act of receiving again twelve velis of land. I approached your holy feet; please accept me.

3

The chief who holds away over the putams! God who is tiruppunkur having beautiful gardens! Having heard that you cured eyar kon of his big disease which afflicted him, and he donated twelve velis of land. When you were bathed in the milk just milked from the cows which are considered as wealth. The feet of the father who went angrily on the civalinkam which was improvised by heaping beautiful sand, to be severed from the body. To Canti who cut them off. And also knowing that you adorned gave the flowers which were on your matted hair I approached your golden feet; please accept me.

4

God who is in tiruppunkur surrounded by natural tank in which beautiful lotus flowers which resemble gold blossom abundantly! Jnana Sambandar well versed in chaste Tamil, tirunavukkarayan, nalaippovan [Nantanar got this name as he was daily saying I shall go to Tillai tomorrow!] Murkka nayanar who was killed in gambling [This nayanar got the name as he was a very skilful gambler and fed devotees of Siva from the income derived from gambling. He got the name of murkkar also as he stabbed people who denied paying him his dues and tried to deceive him]. The good cakkiyan. The spider Kannappa nayanar. Kanampulla nayanar [This nayanar got this name as he burnt lamps using kanampul, a variety of grass, as wick in Tiruppuliccaram, a temple in Citamparam where the sage with feet like tiger worshipped God]. Though the above mentioned people committed acts of moral blemish. Knowing that you took them as acts deserving merit. I approached your feet wearing jingling anklets; please accept me. God who is in tiruppunkur of fertile gardens.

5

The immortals fixed the beautiful and big mountain as a churning. When they ran in a disorderly manner as the poison by name alam, rose instead of nectar which they wished for, by winding round the mountain a death dealing serpent as a rope and approached you for protection. Thinking of bestowing your grace on them. Having drunk the poison of the blue ocean I approached your holy feet knowing your nature of easy accessibility; please accept me.

6

Siva in tiruppunkur of fertile gardens! Iyakkar [one of the eighteen groups of celestial beings.] Kinnarar [These also belong to the eighteen groups of celestial beings]. Yaman (the God of death). Varunan (the Lord of all kinds of water). The God of fire and the God of air which is always moving. The sun, the moon. All the tanavar (acurar), celestials, vacukkal (they are eight in number), serpents, monkeys and tiger which were without mental delusion, without forgetting you even for a moment, having come to know the abundant grace they received from you, by worshipping your holy feet with flowers uttering your names. I reached your holy feet without being perplexed.

7

Siva who is in tiruppunkur which has fertile gardens! As pakiratan requested you long ago. Kankai, the lady who was in the form of water, who descended down form heaven with a roaring noise. The pure one who concealed her in your matted hair! Expounding aram sitting under the shade of a banyan tree which was as extensive as a garden though a single trees, to the sages who had big ears which had packed many truths. You gave pacupatam to parttan on that distant day. Having known all these stories I approached your holy feet; please accept me.

8

Siva who is in tiruppunkur which has fertile gardens! When you destroyed the three forts, among the three who escaped from destruction, after you appointed two of them to be sentinels at the entrance of your temple. When you performed the great dance to be witnessed with joy by Umai who had looks like the deer, … In the arena of scorched cremation ground. The supreme God above all other tever, who bestowed your grace to play on the beautiful mulavu, on the other one! I approached your holy feet; please accept me.

9

Siva in Tiruppunkur which has fertile gardens! In those six systems of religion which are eminent by their acute intelligence. You bestowed the grace on those who follow those religions according to their aptitudes. You pressed down under the big mountain the King of the inhabitants of Ilankai surrounded by the big ocean with raging waves, in order that he may regain his intelligence which was confused. You listened to the sweet music of the songs which he sang with the intention of saving himself. On knowing the bountiful grace by which you granted him a beautiful sword and a long span of life. I approached your holy feet; please accept me.

10

On Siva who covers himself with a skin of a male elephant which is chained to a pillar. Who has a frontal eye with which he burnt Kaman. Who has a holy person which can be compared to gold only and to nothing also. who is in tiruppunkur which has fertile gardens. Who rules over the immortals of the upper world. Who is husband of umayaval. Uran who has another name of vanrontan feeling flad at heart. Those who are capable of singing out of love the ten verses done in tamil of rare meanings. Will not have the Karma from which it is very difficult to extricate oneself. It is definite.

7.058 Thirukkazhumalam (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

1

In the fertile city of Kalumalam which floated above when the ocean enveloped the whole earth. Having removed death at the end of this life and rebirth after this life. And having created me as a new soul. Our master who bestowed on me his grace. The ruby that had on its part a lady, daughter of the mountain, honouring her. Our Lord who kept on his matted hairs the water (of Kankai) discarded from heaven. One who is like the water that is absorbed by a red-hot iron, to my mind which is alien to God, and who has merged within me without being alien to me. The peerless God who has eight forms, our benefactor (master) and one who wears a white ear-ring made of conch, I saw him clearly as he was seated majestically in Kayilai.

2

I do not see any other help now for the next birth also. I suffered. I got the boon from God not to forget him. I would not consider the relations that surrounded me, as helpful. The effulgent light which was worthy of my worship, thinking him only as my help. Showing me eternal bliss, spiritual wisdom and step by step very many paths which could not be known even by the celestials. And the God who taught me knowledge of himself. I, who am his devotee, saw him in the fertile city of Kalumalam as I would see him in Kayilai.

3

The father of Cetan (Murukan), who dwells in Tirut Tinainakar; one who is as valuable as gold and cuts at the root of all my previous karmas. Except the pearless one who has a form as brilliant as gold. I will not think of any one else as God in this world. As I had reasons to be saved I got clear discernment. The God who is both an old man and a young man. Having seen him near me in my dream. I was separated from him unable to see him anywhere, having woken up from sleep. One who is in my mind. And one who dances lifting his left leg. I saw him in the fertile of city of Kalumalam which is proximate to the sea, as I would see him in Kayilai.

4

In the fertile city of Kalumalam which has many gardens of sugar-cane and plantains. The God who wears flowers of konrai which puts forth buds in the rainy season. I bound him so as not go away from me as I had a mind which thinks about him without forgetting. I had the greatness of not being born again, never erring from this state, at any time. Is anyone else capable of attaining that grace which I got? I sing his praise in order to see that God with a black neck, wearing an ear-ring. I am capable of being united with him after my journey in this world is over. I saw him as he would be seated majestically in Kayilai.

5

Uttering the names, one who wears on the ear a shining ear-ring! And a young man holding a cruel battle-axe. And one who wears konrai flowers on which bees are humming. I worshipped him in my sleep prating these names incoherently. Having concentrated my mind which usually goes in many ways as of old as it is its usual nature. And questioning people about the shrines where pacupati, Siva dwells. For many days, in the hope of seeing him in any of the shrines. I saw him in the fertile city of Kalumalam where the waves of the sea move about near back-water which has mangrove trees, as he could be seated majestically in Kayilai.

6

I suffered in mind sitting helplessly thinking Big and irresistible Karmas will reach me and afflict me and so I fixed him in my mind without forgetting him even for a moment. According to the injunctions in sacred works. I worshipped him intentionally my hairs on my body standing on end, and desiring him in my mind. In the fertile city of Kalumalam which has fields where the big red paddy crop grows densely. I saw the God who gives me pleasure like buds, flowers, nectar and the juice of sugar-cane, who is the master of all, who is the embodiment of aram, and who cuts at the root of my birth, as I would see him sitting majestically in Kayilai.

7

(to reach) God who is like the cloud and wealth. And who is as brilliant as the lustre of gold and the brightness of lightning. And the riches that are with me. When those who are at a distance adore him. And when his devotees are worshipping him. I took shelter under the protection of his devotees. Following those who wish to reach God. Pondering over the sayings of those who said, An elephant can be caught in a net spread for catching a hare, and was firmly catching hold of that idea, but due to the result of some good act done in previous births I saw him as he would be seated majestically in Kayilai, in the fertile city of Kalumalam where the group of carp and carnatic carp play together in the fields.

8

Wishing the sins which are abstract things to be destroyed. The effulgent light which was worshipping by me with joined hands and with intention. The husband of the daughter of the mountain desiring her as his consort. God who is as precious as the precious stone of ruby to the celestials, which is worn on the head. The meaning of the marai (Veda) the fame that is praised beautifully. Our light. And the one who could not be found out as a pearless person by both Vishnu and Piraman. I saw such a God in the fertile city of Kalumalam where the waves of the black and roaring sea come and move about, as I would see him seated majestically in Kayilai.

9

Fully knowing that those who have determined that the performance of Karma prescribed in Veda, do not leave attachments and remain as house-holders. And the falsehood of the deceitful people like Jains and buddhists perish quickly (It is evident to actual vision) that being the case. Without paying serious attention to the unworthiness of the so-called truth which they showed to the world, being themselves sunk in mire but pretending to have bathed in a ghat of clear water. Our Lord, one who has a crescent on his matted hairs. One who has boundless grace. And the deity who has a neck which is adorned with black poison and is like the thick darkness. I who am his devotee. Saw in the fertile city of Kalumalam as I would see him seated majestically in Kayilai.

10

Thinking of the Lord who wears on his matted hairs coiled like a crown, fertile konrai flowers and leaves of bael. Except for those devotees who shed tears out of joy from their eyes. It is difficult to know his two holy feet. Having a vision of those two feet in the fertile city of Kalumalam. With all the ten verses which were sung by the son of matted hairyan, aruran. Physical sufferings and mental afflictions will not come near the devotees who hold in their hands flowers for worship.

7.073 Thiruvaaroor (11 verses)

Author: Sundarar

Translation: V.M. Subramanya Ayyar

1

Devotees! Siva is united in all places like the land, sea, and mountain, and in my speech at all times such as morning and evening. The unequalled God. Has as his abode Uruttiralokam. Is the husband of the young daughter of the mountain. Arur is the abode where the King of all celestials and acurar, dwells permanently. Will he admit us two into his grace! Please ask his will about it.

2

Devotees! I did not slight Siva about his being lonely without father mother and other relations. I like him very much contrary to that. I hate people who hate him. I won’t talk words which are sweet on their surface, but not sweet from the bottom of the heart. The abode of the God who is sweet to me is arur which has many araca-palms which have putforth clusters of fruits in the gardens which have many kinds of fruits.

3

Devotees! If I talk about anything I do not talk about anything else except my greatness. I am not of any help even to my relations, not to speak of others. I have a heart which is harder than the stone. Siva who completely removes the sufferings of great learned people who live by their knowledge. Arur is the place where Siva the meaning of all the abstruse Vedas and six ankams lead.

4

Devotees! I am bad in the path I follow in my knowledge, in my relationship with others and in the right moral conduct. I am desirous of inflicting suffering on others and separating friends. I wander doing things according to my whom. Arur is the place where the Lord who bare on his shining red matted hair a crescent a cobra and water resides.

5

Devotees! I won’t swerve even a little from moral conduct. I shall live affording people freedom from trouble. I will not be angry with people well-versed in Vedas. I won’t be a party even to those who are angry with them. Siva who is the brilliance in the light, he is like an elephant to us. Arur is the place where the cause of all things; who smeared himself with the fins powder of white sacred ash resides.

6

Devotees! I would value wealth more than anything else. I do things that come to my mind without considering the consequence; I have no senses of shame, I did not give any help even to a single individual among people who are in want. I am not a help mate even to my relations. As this is my nature I do not possess any pleasing qualities. Arur is the place where our wealth, Siva who created an ant-hill and had it as his abode.

7

I cannot compose verses containing vannam, I will not approach the feet of devotees who have approached God. Riding on a fighting bull which gives battle first. Though he will wander in all the three worlds, though he is like that, arur is the place where our father whom the celestials praise and who wears a chaplet and garland of konrai flowers which spread their fragrance, dwells.

8

Devotees! I will not think about things untrue except the truth. I will not speak sweet words to rude people, except harsh words. Though limping in arguments I shall get angry and kick up a row with people. This is my determined opinion and character which knows no laxity. Arur is the place where the God who pressed under the big mountain, long ago, the King of the people of Ilankai.

9

Devotees! I do not make any difference between our people and others. I shall despise what others say being adamant in my opinion about what is the truth. I shall like noise very much. I do not have even a single right way of conduct. Arur is the place where the God who is bowed by Kumaran, tirumal and Piraman in the company of other celestials resides.

10

Devotees! I am incapable of rooting out many desires. As anger is born out of unfulfilled desire, I talk angrily to all people. If at all I speak, I speak wicked words, which are contrary to good manners. I desire an empty fame very much. I commit mistakes intentionally. Arur is the place of the Lord of the Universe who consumed poison that rose in the roaring sea, as if it were nectar.

11

Devotees! One who has globular shoulders on which the Goddess of victory dwells. Aruran, a native of the village, naval which has fertile fields and where the mulavu is played in a low pitch. Being capable of questioning the devotees, arur is the place where our father dwells; will he admit us too as his protage? These who are able to sing the musical songs with the appropriate music, composed by him. Will attain fame.

7.080 Thirukkaetheessaram (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

Translation: V.M. Subramanya Ayyar

1

Siva who is the embodiment of spiritual wisdom has on one half Vishnu who holds a conch. Who rides on a bull. The bridegroom who covers himself with the skin of a proud and frenzied elephant with temples wet with must. Is the God in Tirukketiccaram who adorns himself with the bones of celestials who have died, and who is on the bank of the tank, Palavi which the devotees who are the personification of piety worship with joined hands

2

Siva with a black neck who wears the skin of an elephant from whose temples a secretion flows, a strip of cloth used as a waistband, a fragment of the beautiful crescent and minute powder of the sacred ash, the Lord in Tirukketiccaram dwells with certainty on the bank of the tank, Palavi, along with a lady who has a waist like the cobra.

3

Siva is such a great God who revealed the six Ankam-s, in the beautiful city of Matottam where ships are crowded, to be worshipped with joined hands and praised by the immortals. Wore a crescent which is a fragment of the full moon. God who tied a cobra with red eyes is in Tirukketiccaram on the bank of the tank, Palavi.

4

Siva has a black neck in which there is poison. Has an eye above the beautiful two eyes on the face. In the beautiful city of matottam where in the gardens the bees with wings and lines on them hum like the music produced in yal. Who is well-versed in the Veda-s fit for research. Is in tirukketiccaram on the bank of the tank, palavi which hurls big waves on its banks.

5

Siva who cured the diseases in the bodies of his devotees, in the beautiful city of Matottam by the side of the sea where ships are crowded. On the bank of the tank, palavi, along with a young lady who beautifies one half of the body. Is in Tirukketiccaram surrounded by coconut groves.

6

Having completely removed the cruel acts of his devotees. Siva who has a red matted hair coiled into a crown. In the beautiful city of matottam which is near the sea where people of this world gather in crowds. With a young lady who has waist like the cobra. Is in Tirukketiccaram on the bank of the tank, palavi.

7

Having completely cured the diseases in the bodies of his devotees. In the beautiful city of Matottam by the side of the expansive sea where white conches are found in plenty. With a lady whose words desired by milk too for their sweetness. Siva who adorned his chest with a hog’s tusk. Is in Tirukketiccaran on the bank of the tank, Palavi.

8

Siva has eight forms, having tied a cobra on the waist beautifully. Estimable God who admits us into his grace as his slaves. Along with a lady who wears on her beautiful forehead a plate of gold. In the beautiful city of matottam which has gardens where the bees hum loudly drinking the honey. Is in tirukketiccaram on the bank of the tank, palavi.

9

Siva who has a visible for with three eyes and who is catasiva, mayeccuran, Uruttiran, ari and Ayan. And God who accepts me as his protege. In the beautiful city of Matottam where in the gardens mango fruits are hanging low. Is in Tirukketiccaram on the banks of the tank, palavi, in which people who want to cut at the roots of sins and acts, good and bad, have a bath.

10

Within the city of Matottam which has backwaters surrounding it and is near the sea which is black in color. On the Lord in Keticcaram where in the gardens the bees which have wings hum like the music produced in yal. Cruel acts will not reach those who are able to recite all the ten verse which do not diminish in fame and which are composed by the slave to the feet of Siva by name uran who has a fame of chanting the Vedas.

7.085 Thirukkoodalaiyaa’r’roor (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

Translation: V.M. Subramanya Ayyar

1

Holding a sharp battle-axe. Covering himself with the skin of an elephant of must. With a holy body smeared with sacred ash. With Umai who has curly tresses of hair, the God who dwells in Kutalaiyarrur which has tall storeys which are adorned by flags. I did not know the wonderful act of coming before me in this path (what a great ignorance it was on my part!)

2

Having Vishnu who devoured the whole of this earth! Piraman of four faces and a beautiful young lady in his body who has sides like the hood of a cobra. The master who dwells in Kutalaiyarrur which has gardens from which flowers can be plucked.

3

Begging place alms for eating going to each village holding a white skull. Holding a sharp pointed battle-axe. Along with a lady of distinction who wears on her breasts a bodice. The affectionate God who dwells in Kutalaiyarrur.

4

Siva who has a matted hair hanging low, on which he bears water which is beautiful and a crescent. Along with a beautiful lady who holds in her fingers a ball, the brahmin who dwells in Kutalaiyarrur surrounded by gardens which have bunches of flowers adhering to them.

5

Manifesting himself in the form of light divine for the brahmins, the celestials and other people of this world to worship him. Along with Umai who has curly tresses of hair. The first cause of all things who dwells in Kutalaiyarrur where the bees which peck the flowers for pollen.

6

Playing skillfully on a vinai, wearing a white strand of sacred thread. Along with a lady of distinction whose teeth are as sparkline as the white pearls. My father who dwells in Kutalaiyarrur surrounded by gardens where flowers blossom in bunches.

7

Along with a crescent that creeps through the clouds. Placing a cruel cobra on the matted hair, with a lady beautifully decked with jewels and wears on the waist a cloth with minute darning. The beautiful God who dwells in Kutalaiyarrur which has gardens which are eminent by their beauty of tender leaves.

8

To be surrounded by the celestials who have their own eminence mentioned in the Vedas, Vishnu, Ayan, intiran, a lady whose forehead is like the crescent in shape and the crowd of pey. Siva the embodiment of all virtues who dwells with the dwarf putams.

9

Consuming the poison that rose in the ocean. Riding on a bull. Along with a beautiful lady whose soft words are as sweet as milk. Assuming a form which is suited to her beauty. The God who sat under a banyan tree and dwells in Kutalaiyarrur.

10

Siva who dwells in Kutalaiyarrur desiring a sport of grace along with Umai who has a tender waist like the creeper. Expressing this is an act of wonder that he did the acts of those who are able to recite all the ten verses done by nampi aruran, a native of tirunavalur, in sweet tamil desired earnestly by all, will perish without even a trace of them remaining.

7.089 Thiruve’npaakkam (11 verses)

Author: Sundarar

Translation: V.M. Subramanya Ayyar

1

If I, your slave committed faults with the determination that our Lord will forgive them. Without considering the reproach which will come to you. You caused concealing my eyes to lose their power of vision by the formation of cataract. Siva who has perforated ear lengthened by weighting the ear-lobes in which a men’s ear-ring is worn. When I invoked are you within this the temple? Siva who holds a deer replied, we are here; you go your own way (is this his kindness?)

2

In all my doing I do not know the beginning, the middle and the end; I shall say my Lord is my refuge; let whatever happens happen. I was free from anxiety thinking in this way. Siva who has a bull. Who wears poisonous cobras. Who smears white sacred ash. Who has a dress of a tiger’s skin. Who has me as his slave. Without considering. He has the good behaviour of taking refuge in us; is our slave.

3

I do not possess discrimination to know what is good and what is bad. Thinking that your holy feet are my refuge. Even if I who am an insincere slave, commit faults out of ignorance would you not forgive them? When I said, Siva who wears cobras with hoods! Were you inside the temple, he who can bestow his grace on me, affectionately, to save me.

4

Siva who covers himself with the skin of an elephant which is tied to a pillar, who has a black neck, and has a skull in his hand. Has a holy body red like the red coral. Being united with Umai wearing beautiful ornaments. The supreme being! As soon as I asked him were you here? The unequalled companion of the celestials who live in the upper world. Replied to me we are here; you go your own way!

5

The fragrant konrai which is brilliant like gold to shine beautifully on the twisted matted hair. Riding on a bull having Umai who has a minute waist shining like the lightning. When the devotees worship with joined hands and praise him, crowding on both sides. I too, his devotee. When I asked him are you in the temple with intention.

6

Siva who wears konrai flowers which appear like blossoms in the fire, on the red matted hair which bore the bright crescent, on which Kankai spreads, and who has the valour of burning even Kaman who conquers everyone, with the frontal eye. When I asked him, You hid the apple of my eye; were you here? The husband of Umai who has a bright forehead.

7

When the brahmins who are in this world and other devotees perform service to Siva. Siva who wears on his matted hair garlands of fragrant konrai. Siva who has a beautiful neck in which the black poison which is unbearable! When I asked him were you here? Who tied a cobra which crawls, in the waist.

8

Siva who is in an exalted place and who dances always to be surrounded by goblins; along with Umai who has beautiful breasts which occupy the whole of the bodice, in the burning ground. The Lord who has the place of tiruvorriyur as his shrine which he desires and who has a neck in which the poison stays as its rightful place.

9

The Lord who wears konrai flowers which are like gold in color! Without informing me who asked you to go leaving the temple and be under the pointed-leafed ape-flower tree. The Lord who was able to tell me let the oath be taken under the pointed-leafed ape-flower tree. When I asked him, are you here?! Detesting me like seeing his enemies.

10

To be spoken by people that you protected me granting your grace eminently by giving me cankili who is as beautiful as the deer and all other good things that come out of it. The father who created all the worlds! When I asked him are you in this white temple? Granting me a walking stick I can fix in the ground.

11

Warmly attached to Siva who has a black neck and who has as his shrine venpakkam where gardens full of beauty exist. With love. The irresistible acts will not reach those who are capable of reciting the tamil verses of aruran who placed the name of Siva in famous tiruvarur, on his head esteeming it.

7.092 thiruppukko’liyoor avinaasi (10 verses)

Author: Sundarar

Translation: V.M. Subramanya Ayyar

1

Siva who has worn as ornaments dancing cobras that live in anthills! Master of all living beings! One who is in an exalted place! One who is at the temple avinaci in pukkoliyur! I think of you in my mind realising that our Lord in the relations in the seven births, I shall live having you as my support. By what reason shall I forget you!

2

Siva who has abundance of grace and has the form of an ascetic! What is the playful mischief committed by the bachelor who bathed descending into the tank in puk Koliyur which has gardens of big trees and park full of young trees? Is it fitting your greatness that the bachelor who joined the group of people visiting temples should die in your presence?

3

Siva who has worn angry and dancing cobras! God who dwells at the temple avinaci in pukkoliyur! Our master! If I think of you who is our Lord. If I enter into Konku Natu or anywhere else. There is no one who robs me on the highway of my clothes. I would request you to save me from being born again.

4

You desire the words of those who praise you; you are seated on the heads of those who are able to think of you, never forgetting you. God who has tied in the waist a cobra that can dance, spreading its hood. You are the origin and the end of all things. God who is at the temple, avinaci, in pukkoliyur, which has superior forests and parks of tender trees, order Kalan to return the child to the crocodile and the crocodile to deliver it on the bank of the tank.

5

Siva who is at the temple, avinaci in pukkoliyur. God who wears a men’s ear-ring and dwells in the garden where monkeys dance. The stage for your dance is the cremation ground where everyone perishes. In addition to that. You shot an arrow by fixing the arrow in the bow-string as the inhabitants of the three cities deviated from the path of virtue.

6

The beautiful light that remains to be worshipped by the celestials by saying, salutation to you who are inferior, adding our tongues will not speak about anything else except praising you! God who has a matted hair hanging low and wearing flowers! God who dwells at the temple, avinaci in pukkoliyur! Dancer! Is my nature of becoming your slave, fault?

7

You dwell even in the minds of those monkeys, as they pour water on you adorn you with flower in the morning, noon and evening when the female monkey goes in search of eatable fruits in the sides of the mountain for giving them to the male monkey. Siva in the temple of avinaci in pukkoliyur! God who has the name of Nanti! I pray to you to save me from entering hell.

8

Siva who has ornaments and a waistcord of cobras! God who dwells at the temple, avinaci in pukkoliyur! I gave up completely cherishing with love other Gods except you I gave up even seeing them. Siva who has a black neck and who can show things to my eyes which they cannot see by themselves! If you show me I shall see things, very much again.

9

Our Siva who dwells in Nallaru, Tellaru and Aratturai, you did not desire a white cloth; but desired the tiger’s skin as your cloth. What was the playful prank committed by the bachelor who dived into the tank entering to bathe in pukkoliyur which has in its gardens large flocks of birds?

10

On Siva who has a spotless form and ruddy and great matted hair which stands erect in which the water increases. The God who rides on a bull that can fight. The God who dwells at the temple avinaci in pukkoliyur and who has a black neck. There will be no sufferings to those who can recite the verses of great fame which were composed by the devotee, aruran, thinking of Siva in his mind.

7.095 Thiruvaaroor (11 verses)

Author: Sundarar

Translation: V.M. Subramanya Ayyar

1

Siva in Tiruvarur! The humble servants who do not swerve from that state. Without desiring any one except yourself. Being the ever humble servants to you only always without any chance of redemption. Burning internally like the fire that is smouldering without visible flame, and not wishing to reveal their distress. Pining away so that the sufferings can be patent on the face to be known to others. If they express their distress in so many words. You are quite indifferent to that. Let you prosper though devotees might suffer troubles.

2

My God! You have the absolute right to sell me outright. I am not a thing mortgaged with right of possession I become your servant wishing it. I have not committed any fault. You made me blind. For what reason did you take away my eyesight? You yourself got the blame, not I. (after much request and prayer you granted me sight of my left eye in kancipuram) if you do not grant me the sight of the other eye, which is the right one. [[Cuntarar lost the sight of both eyes when he broke his promise not to leave Tiruvorriyur; he got the sight of his left eye in kancipuram, he regained the sight of his right eye after composing this decade]]

3

Siva dwelling in arur which has gardens which the birds, anril, reach without losing their way! Like the calves that drink the milk when they hit against the udder to secrete milk. The devotees who always sing about you without any deficiency, and receive benefits from you. Having lost the power of eyesight. If they hit against a hill. And suffer falling into a pit.

4

Lord who has as his permanent residence tiruvarur! You dwell in turutti (modern Kuttalam in Tanjavur Dist.) You rule in corrutturai having palanam as your place. We need not say that your dwelling place is the minds of devotees. If your humble servants who have love towards you and complain about their sufferings. If you make them undergo sufferings in this birth and do good only in the next birth.

5

Our God! Is this place tiruvarur which has gardens where fertile and cool tender leaves are glittering like coral? Is this the fate of being your humble servants? Your humble servants who compose verses of rhythmic movement having lost their eyesight. Coming to you. If they make a humble petition to you wanting justice to be done.

6

Lord who has a twisted ruddy matted hair on which is worn a konrai garland which is golden in color and grows in the forest tract, and who dwells in Tiruvarur which is reached by the cranes which have legs like the stem of the millet your humble servants. Suffering not only from want of riches. Having become feeble. But also having lost their eyesight. If they are languishing in their minds.

7

Lord Siva who is in arur having gardens where flocks of male and female birds reach their nests! Our Lord who is suitable to us. Is this the fate for those who have become your slaves? Granting me a mind that does not forget you. Having practised deception in my case. Making me to be born in this world. And endowing me with a body. If you take away my eye-sight.

8

We were born in high caste. Without despising you. We shall praise you possessing words which mention your pervading backwater, ocean, ship and earth. Our God! You are not conscious of the reproach that comes to you by making us suffer. We who are the pious people singing you praises. Unable to see the way. If we are agitated in mind.

9

The Lord who is in tiruvarur! If what one desires to have though it is unripe fruit is equal to ripe fruit if one possesses it wishing it. All others except you. Say that separation from a pey with which we developed friendship is a thing that brings sufferings; you keep mum and do not speak even a single word, opening your mouth, though we who have become your slaves, are roaming in the midst of your audience-hall, complaining like a vile dog.

10

You who had as your fitting abode tirumulattanam. Is this tiruvarur where the tree cerunti blossoms like superior gold in the gardens? We will praise you without slighting whether we are sitting, or standing or lying; if you keep silent even when we come to you sufferings and make a supplication.

11

Being the many arts. Lord who has as a half a lady who wears a bodice on her breasts, and who has a black neck, eight shoulders three eyes and dwells in arur mulattanam! To be known in all the places in this world. You took away the eye-sight of mine who has the name of aruran which is the names of your holy feet.

Manikkavasagar

8.001 Sivapuranam, Sivan’s way of Old (95 lines)

Author: Manikkavasagar
Translation: G.U. Pope

Biblical English removed by Himalayan Academy editors

1-5
Hail, the five letters; Na-Ma-Si-Va-Ya; Hail, the foot of the Lord!)
Hail, the foot of Him Who doesn’t leave my heart even for an instant!
Hail, the foot of the pearl of Gurus who rules in Gogari!
Hail, the foot of Him who becomes, abides and draws near to us as the holy
Agamas!
Hail, the foot of Him who is the One, the Many and the King!)

6-10
Victory to the foot of the King, who soothed my soul’s unrest and made me His!
Victory to the jeweled foot of Pinnagan, who severs the continuity of birth and rebirth!
Victory to the flower-foot of Him who is distant from those without devotion!
Victory to the anklets of the King, who rejoices among those who worship with clasped hands!
Victory to the anklets of the glorious One, who uplifts those that bow their head to Him!)

11-16
Praise to the foot of Eesan! Praise to my Father’s foot!
Praise to the foot of the illustrious Guru! Praise to Siva’s rose-colored foot!
Praise to the foot of the Stainless One, standing as Love!
Praise to the foot of the King, who cuts off delusive birth!
Praise to the foot of glorious Perunturrai’s Lord!
Praise to the Mountain, whose grace gives unending pleasures!)

17-20
Because He, Siva, abides within my thought,
By His grace alone, bowing before His feet,
With joyous thought, I’ll recite this Sivapuranam,
Siva’s ‘Ways of Old’,
so that my past karma may disappear.)

21-25
I came and attained the grace that the ‘Brow-eyed’ Siva showed,
I adored the beauteous foot which is unreached by thought.
O You, who fills heaven, who fills the earth, who is manifested light,
Transcending thought, O boundless One! I, a man of evil ‘deeds’,
Don’t know the way to praise Your great glory!)

26-31
I was grass, I was shrub, worm and tree.
many kinds of beasts, birds, snakes,
Stone, man, and demon. I served among Your hosts.
I bore the form of mighty asuras, ascetics & devas.
Within these immobile and mobile forms of life,
Born in every species, I’ve grown weary, O great Lord!)

32-40
Truly, seeing Your golden feet on this day, I’ve gained release.
O Truth! You dwell in my soul as the mystic syllable OM,
So that I may escape. O spotless one! O Master of the bull!
Lord of the Vedas! Spreading far and wide, rising and sinking, subtle One!
You are the heat! And You are the cold! You are the Master,
You came in grace, O spotless One, that all false things might flee,
True Wisdom, gleaming brightly in true splendor,
To me, devoid of all wisdom, blissful Lord!
O great Wisdom, causing ignorance to flee!)

41-48
You know no increase, measure or end! All worlds
You create, protect, destroy, enrich with grace and release.
You granted me entry into Your band of servants.
You are more subtle than fragrance. You are far, and You are near.
You are the Mystic word, transcending word and thought.
As when milk, sugar cane juice and ghee are mingled,
You distill and concentrate, like honey, in the thought of Your glorious devotees,
And cut off the continuity of births – our mighty One!)

49-61
You have the five colors! While the heavenly ones extolled You,
You lay hidden, not revealing Yourself, our mighty Lord!
I lay, hidden under illusion’s shrouding darkness,
In the strong grasp of karma.
You, binding with rare cords of virtue and of sin,
Did clothe with outer skin, covering worms and filth.
Bewildered within my foul nine-gated dwelling,
Sorely deceived by the five senses,
To me, mean as I was, with no good thing, You granted grace, Pure One,
That I, with a mind that sank to the level of a brute so long ago,
Should become commingling love, and melt in soul-subduing rapture!
You came in grace on this earth, and showed Your mighty feet
To me who lay, a mere slave, – lower than a dog,
Essential grace more precious than a mother’s love!)

62-83
O Flawless Light, Spotless splendor! Brightness of a fully opened flower!
O Guru! Honied ambrosia! Lord of the city of Siva!
O venerated One, Guardian, One who loosens the bondage of Pasam,
Working in the grace of love, that delusion in my mind may die!
Great river of exceeding tenderness, which flows year round!
Ambrosia that does not satiate! Infinite, almighty Lord!
Light that lurks, unseen, within the souls that do not seek You!
You who abides in my soul, until melting waters flow!
You who are without pleasure or pain, yet have both!
Loving to those with devotion! Effulgent One, Who is all things,
And their negation too! Great Master, around whom no darkness gathers!
You are the beginning, middle and end, and yet have none of these!
Father, Lord, who drew me to You and made me Yours!
Eye of the minds that see with the keenest vision of true wisdom,
Hard to be seen! Subtle understanding that none can scrutinize!
Holy One! Who neither comes, with birth, nor goes, with death, nor lives life in between!
Guardian who guards us! Great Light whom none can see!
O Father! Flood of delight! Light of all passing splendors
That appear! Unexplainable subtle Intellect!
Of everything that’s known, that this diverse world regards as truth,
You are true knowledge! Absolute Certainty!
Precious ambrosia, fountain welling up within! You who are my owner!

84-95
I can’t endure, our Guru, to live in this ever changing physical form.
Aran! All Your saints who’ve realized the Truth invoke You,
Abiding in worship, and praising You, freed from falsehood,
Return here no more! So that deeds and birth do not cling,
The power is Yours to sever the bonds of this deceitful sensuous frame!
Lord who dances, trampling down the dense darkness !
Dancer in Thillai! Dweller in the Southern Pandyan land!
You who cuts off evil birth! – In constant adoration, You they name,
Whom words cannot describe; then beneath Your sacred feet
They learn the true meaning of their song. The multitude of blessed ones
Who dwell in Siva’s town, beneath
The feet of Siva, bowing low, utter praise.

8.005 thirucathakam, The Varying Degrees of Religious Enthusiasm (400 lines)

Author: Manikkavasagar

Translation: Himalayan Academy

Decad 1 – Mey Unartal

The Cognition of the True (Knowing the Lord as the Truth)

1. 

I’m at Your feet and my body is quivering like an opening flower bud;

I raise my hands, palms together, above my head, while tears pour down, 

my heart melting, renouncing all that is false, praising You;

Praising You with songs of triumph!

I’ll not give my hands, held together in adoration, a rest. 

O Master, please look my way!

2. 

I do not ask for the bliss of Indra, Brahma or Vishnu; even if my house and home

Be ruined, Your devotees will be my only friends; even if I have to enter

A hellish abyss, I’ll go there without complaint if that is what divine grace prescribes.

O King, no other God but You will be in my thoughts, our Transcendent Good!

3.

My Lord! Your servant thinks of You with heart melting in love.

While in rapture, I express my soul’s ecstatic joys,

While wandering from town to town, the people call me mad;

They speak harsh words to me with upset and agitated minds.

O death, when will you come for me?

4.

All those who attended Daksha’s sacrifice pleaded with Siva to save them from death.

“Our Father,” they cried and worshiped Him with suppliant voices,

But they vainly believed that Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra rule the heavens and the earth.

Those erring penitents, What sin is this that their haughty minds breathe out?

5.

I’ve done no penance, nor have I bowed down and offered flowers.

I am low born, vain, a slave to cruel and evil deeds,

I’ve failed to seek and gain the bliss of heaven amongst Your devotees.

Supreme Lord, please grant me your grace and let me live at Your feet.

6.

They roamed about and picked the choicest flowers to offer at Your feet.

They thought that You would grant all their wishes in return; but in mystic guile

You’ve hidden from their loving hearts. Grant me Your grace so that I may

Love and ceaselessly praise Your feet with perfect song.

7. 

Long ago, Brahma brought flowers and worshiped and looked everywhere

for the All-Seeing One, but did not find Him; Our mighty One, who dwells beyond.

He dances with ghosts in the cremation grounds, a homeless, friendless one; He’s

Clothed Himself in tiger-skin, and wanders here and there like a madman!

8.

The wandering wind, the fire, the flood, the earth and the heaven —

there will be a time when these five will be destroyed! When that hour has come,

O Lord, please remove the karmic deeds which bind the soul, 

which Your slave has created in his wandering days, and please protect us from creating more!

9.

Bhavan is our Lord. The garland on his head is adorned with the cool vast moon.

He is the Prince of heavenly beings. Siva is our Lord, who made me His even though He saw

my worthlessness. I declare that He is our Supreme Lord and I am his lowly servant!

So that the world will know, tell everyone that Bhavan is our Lord!

10.

I was unsuitable to be among your loving devotees, my flawless Gem!

O rare Ambrosia! The way You took me for Your own and made me deserving,

Lifting me high, You’ve brought the heavenly beings low!

What You, our Lord, has done to me is like a hilarious comedy.

Decad 2 – Arivuruthal

The Impartation of Divine Knowledge (Searching for the Lord’s grace.)

11.

In the midst of your devotees, I move with them in a mystic dance;

I hurry eagerly to gain entrance, through moksha, to Your home above.

O golden glorious Hill of gems! Give me the grace of loving you always.

Our Master, please abide in my heart of hearts, melting my very soul.

12.

I do not dread being born again. I think nothing of death.

I do not crave the power to rule this earth or gain heaven itself.

O Siva, crowned with a garland of cassia flowers filled with nectar; our Peruman!

Our only Lord! I beg of you: “When will that day come when I receive Your grace?”

13.

I am always pining, wanting to see your lotus feet, I’m Your lowly slave!

I sit, no flowers have I offered, my tongue has spoken no praise.

You who bent the well-strung golden bow! If you do not give

the Ambrosia of Your grace, I will be a forlorn wretch. What else could I be?

14.

My inmost self does not pine, like it should, for Your sacred Feet;

Nor does it melt in love; I bring no flower garlands; nor speak worthy words of praise;

Within the shrine of Him, the King of gods, I perform no humble service;

Nor move in dance. I hasten toward death! You Who’ll bring heavenly moksha!

15.

You are the heaven; You are the earth; You are the wind; You are the light!

You are the body; You are the soul; You are existence and non-existence also.

You are the king; dwelling within, You make all these puppets move,

Each one saying: “Me and mine.” What shall I say? How shall I render praise?

16.

The Gods in heaven praise You in order to share heaven’s bliss! 

They lowly humble themselves in order to be exalted by the people of this world.

My Lord who’s adorned with garlands humming with honey bees; I’m Your lowly slave

Who worships you in order to be saved from the cycle of birth and death.

17.

Those in heaven chant Your praise; the fourfold Vedas sing Your praise;

Uma, whose shiny tresses are adorned with fragrant flowers, shares Your body.

Your servants dwell in heaven, together in true love. Slowly, slowly,

They see Your feet and tinkling anklets as You are hard to know.

18.

You who are hard to know. You’re seen dancing in Tillai’s golden hall, 

Our Mighty One, higher than the sky!  I am lowly,

Here below Your jeweled feet, where You made me Your own;

I no longer offer flowers, no longer weep, no longer melt in love.

Living here is more than I can bear. How can it be? I die, I truly die.

19.

Kama, the god of love and desire, comes in the springtime with flower arrows,

Along with fair maidens with bewitching smiles, rosy lips and flowers in their hair.

Poor soul, that pants and melts in their presence, the Lord who made you His

Has gone to dwell in heaven. But look, poor soul, you are still lingering here.

20.

O soul that lives for the pleasures of this world, bereft of life’s true joys,

You are sinking in the mire of bad karma without praising Him who could free you.

I’m telling you, over and over, that you are creating ruin for yourself!

Even now you are sinking beneath the waves of that distressful sea.

Decad 3 – Cutturuthai

Dying to Sense and Self (Longing for true knowledge to know the Lord)

21.

Ganga’s flowing flood pours down through the locks of Your hair.

Astride Nandi, the bull, You are Lord of the Gods in heaven.

Your devotees sang and stood with panting, melting souls

Their love is like a torrent flowing into the abyss.

I heard, with yearning soul. You made me Yours! Yet now, 

from head to foot, I’ve not melted. No flood of tears

Pour down from my eyes. My heart is like stone.

Both eyes are like wood, not seeing my bad karma.

22.

You stood by me when I was bound up in bad karma;

As one who says, “Come, I am the destroyer of karma.”

Announcing this, You made me Yours,

And became my mighty Lord. But like a statue made of iron,

I sing no praise, nor dance, nor weep, nor wail,

Nor faint with bliss. Behold, O Primal One,

I make my complaint to You not knowing

How this will end for me. You who are beginning and end.

23.

You are Brahma. You are the lord of the four Vedas.

I know You. Me, the lowest of men that live;

I know and consider myself a dog;

Yet Lord, I’ll say that I am Your loving devotee!

As low as I was, You took me for Your own;

Your saints are here no longer, only me, a vile wretch.

Accepting me, Your greatness shines.

Our Peruman, what shall I say to You?

24.

And if I spoke, I would say over and over again

“Mother, Father and Lord, Great Peruman!”

And if I besmeared, it would be only sacred ash

I’d smear, while praising You, our Peruman;

You who made Your own those who passed over birth and death

by devotion. You saw that I had plunged into a torrential flood of lust

And guile, O spotless mountain of jewels,

Father, it was such a one that You made Your own!

25.

Your color is not red, nor is it white, Your form-

You are many and you are one – far subtler than an atom.

O Father, the heavenly beings, in bewildered thought,

Do not know the way to reach Your feet.

You showed me Your form; You showed me Your beauty;

You showed me your flowery feet. While wandering, 

You made me Yours, safeguarding me from future birth!

Our Peruman, what shall I say, what shall I think?

26.

You made my thought Your thought! Me, a mere dog,

You made my eyes rest on Your lotus feet.

You made me bow before them. You made 

My mouth to speak Your praise with beautiful words!

You came to fill my five senses and made me Yours.

Ambrosial sea of magic might! O mountain! You 

Gave Yourself, Your form like the red lotus flowers in the wilds,

To lonely, helpless me. You, shining light.

27.

I am lonely, tossed about by the waves of anguish

On the great ‘sea of birth and death’ with nothing to cling to;

Disturbed by the winds of passion for the lips of women — red like ripened fruit,

I lay caught in the jaws of the sea monster called lust!

I cried over and over “How can I escape?” Then I saw,

And clung to Your buoyant Namasivaya mantra!

O Primal One, You pointed me towards the shore of moksha,

And made this rash and stupid person Your own.

28.

No one knows Him by hearing; He knows no decay;

He has no kin. He doesn’t question, He hears everything!

While the people of this earth looked on, He gave a royal seat

To me, one who’s lower than a dog.

He showed me everything not shown before,

He made me hear everything that was not heard before:

And guarding me from future births, He made me His.

Such is the wondrous work our Lord has done for me!

29. 

What a wonder this is! Tell me, have you seen anything like this anywhere?

He made me the servant of His loving saints;

He came and removed my fear, His ambrosia pouring forth,

And while my soul dissolved, in love He made me His own.

The Lord, male, female and neither, pure Ether was He;

As wondrous fire, as the end of all; far beyond everything;

His body has the hue of a golden flower;

Our Siva Peruman, our lord, King of the Gods.

30.

The God of Gods, King of Gods unknown;

King of the Three Gods; who create, preserve and destroy

The teeming worlds; He is the First, Divine Essence, Lord of Lords, 

Our Father, who shares His body with divine Mother Uma;

The King of all; He came and made me, too, His own.

Henceforth I’m no one’s slave; no one do I fear!

We’ve reached the goal; we shall bathe forever

In the sea of bliss with the servants of His saints.

Decad 4  – Atmacutti

The Soul’s Purification (The soul worries that it has not searched for the Lord and asks for His grace.)

31.

O heart, you do not dance; you have no love for the Dancer’s foot;

You do not sing His praises, thrilled and melting, You do not bow;

You do not wear the flower of His grace; nor offer flowers to His feet.

You do not search for Him on every street, you do not cry out.

There’s none like you dead heart!

I don’t know what to do!

32.

My Lord came, entered and made me, this know-nothing, His own; in mercy He taught me all;

He showed me the higher path; He loosened all my bonds.

O my dead heart, in spite of receiving the changeless, sweetest gift of grace, you’ve changed!

Turning to all the false pleasures of the world you’ve brought me down;

I lie here low, ruined by you!

33.

My foolish, senseless heart, changing for the worst you have brought me ruin.

I will never trust you again. You saw the holy ash on Siva’s mighty arms,

Yet you did not melt. You do not want to free us from the bondage of this body,

Nor listen to my plea to undo the ruin that you have brought.

34.

Perish, O restless mind! When I laid like a lowly dog before the Absolute Master,

You enjoyed the fragrant grace of his lotus feet. But now you have separated from Him.

All former bliss you have lost. His wisdom and greatness cannot be measured.

35.

The Gods cannot understand His greatness, but for His saintly devotees He is easy to reach.

He destroyed my hidden karma and made me His. Even when you knew this joy,

O heart, you did not give up your bad qualities or prepare a place for Him,

You did not bow before the Master’s healing feet or seek the heavenly goal of moksha.

36.

If it’s not given to me to pass the golden gate, where all may find entrance

And from where no-one ever departs; nor to melt in love before the feet

Of Him, my Master, my Lord; if I, a sinful man, can not receive the sweet

Ambrosia of devotion, then what can I do to fix this?

37.

Are there other sinners like me, a dog at the Master’s Feet?

Yet it is Your sacred will that You will not separate from me by even the breadth of a hair.

And so, O Primal One, if I should leave your lotus feet and continue to live

Then my soul is iron, my mind is stone, my ears worth nothing.

38.

All the others have reached the goal, Yet I, a know-nothing,

Have not hastened to join You who are all sweetness, 

Siva, King of the Sivaloka; conjoined with Your doe-eyed Goddess.

I’ m stuck here, cherishing and attached to this body

And so my death-in-life existence drags on.

39.

O endless bliss! Bliss beyond compare! His lotus feet blessed me, one who’s lower than a dog.

He showed me the perfect path. He gave His grace that’s sweeter than a mother’s love;

My Chief, who I cannot see! I’ve not yet fallen into the fire,

I’ve not yet wandered over hills, nor plunged into the sea!

40.

It’s said that your life will turn upside down when Kama’s love arrows pierce your heart. 

I took no heed of this!

Now my mind is agitated, like milk being stirred in a butter churn, by the wiles of the doe-eyed young women. 

I’m not trying to go to Siva’s city, where grace, sweet as honey, is given to the soul.

I’m still attached to fine food and clothing, cherishing my soul’s embodiment.

Decad 5 – Kaimaru Koduthal

The Rendering a Fit Return (Seeking the Lord’s help to unite with Him.)

41.

Like an elephant with two trunks I did not see

My mind’s true essence; I saw only trouble and distress.

You asked me to come to You; but I am a slave to the senses,

As yet unable to join Your devotees in heaven.

42.

Your devotees apprehend that there is one bright Essence,

But You are not known to them.

You appeared to me, Your servant, in Your true form!

I saw You appear, yet I did not see You. What kind of magical trickery is this!

43.

Your unique form is unknown to even the Gods in heaven!

You are the Mystic Dancer, who made me Yours!

Yours, You made me!  On Earth, in heaven, or when all these

Have passed away, when shall I see Your face?

44.

Infinite One, unseen by men. Beyond the ability of the eye to see.

Essence gleaming brightly! I am here like a little bird in the nest.

I would gladly fly from this body, yet I don’t know how to 

Leave this pleasure-world of the senses.

45.

I am not calling on You, filled with love,

Nor am I praising You or falling down in ecstasy.

I’m more like Yama, Lord of Death, who came to oppose You

And ended up bowing before Your lotus feet.

46.

You are crowned with a garland of cassia flowers, dripping nectar and humming with bees.

Please call me to You and make me one among your loving devotees.

You are above and below, contained within everything.

You are, my Lord, like the oil with the sesame seed!

47.

My Lord is my father and mother, and father and mother to all.

But for Him there is neither father, mother or lord.

He entered my inmost soul long ago,

The Ever-blissful One whom none can know by thought.

48.

Wealth or poverty is the same to You! From the Gods in heaven

To worms and grass, you permeate all, O gracious rare Being.

I saw Your ornamented feet, yet I swerved away from You.

This is the grief that my stony heart now endures.

49. 

You loosened my bonds and made me Yours,

While all Your loving saints looked on. Giving holy ash

You exalted even me, within the temple court.

You exalted me, an ignorant one who knows nothing.

50.

Your form is Wisdom! Sweet Ambrosia! I was a  servile dog,

When You took me and made me Yours, was I wise?

You saw my ignorance on that day You made me Yours!

Ah, Lord of grace, was I then wise? Was I then strong?

Decad 6 – Anupokacutti

Overflowings of Joy (The soul does not want to live on the earth without uniting with the Lord)

51.

O Master, O my Mighty One, my Father, Peruman, Destroyer of my future births,

You who made me Yours. I, an evil worthless dog, thoroughly base.

You see, I cannot think of a proper way to return to You.

O Shining One, Lord of Thillai’s golden hall, I don’t know what to do.

52. 

I am a worthless dog. I don’t know what to do. I ran after those things

That the false ones seek, those who have never seen Your golden lotus feet.

I saw and heard that Your true saints, those set free from falsehood, had reached Your feet.

Yet I, a worldly one, O Mighty Warrior, stay in this world attached to its pleasures.

53.

O Mighty Warrior, You deigned to come here from Your golden city,

Along with Your youthful beauteous Queen, and make the darkness flee.

Even though I saw those who’d gained Your grace approach Your feet, I am like

The blind cow that wanders aimlessly in the village street. I am a wretch.

Am I doomed to stay here in this world?

54.

Many are the saints doing long penances, mortifying their bodies, with only the

Hope of seeing You here. Yet it was me, a sinner, who You made your servant.

O Gem, I cannot yet leave this body, filled with foulness. I do not have enough love or

Strong desire to come to see You. Then how, my Prince, am I going to reach you?

55.

You are conjoined with the doe-eyed Uma! You came and made me Yours.

You are ambrosia, essence of sweetness! O Siva, king of southern Thillai.

Your saints assembled beneath Your sacred sign have gathered around Your feet.

But I still guard this loathsome body and stay here in this world, O my Master!

56.

O my Master, Your loving devotees, filled with rapture, think of You.

They are Yours, I saw them join Your feet. Yet I dwell here, lower than a village dog.

My heart feels no rapture, it does not melt in love; my mind is stone.

I must guard this vile body and abide here in this world. Such is Your will.

57.

What Your will has ordained for me is befitting. Faithless, I have strayed

From the path of devotion followed by Your saints. I am a reprobate, intimate

With women, watching the quivering of their lips, the loosening of their clothes and

Their bashful looks. Craving these signs of love, my mind has brought ruin to myself.

58.

You are the sweetness of honey, purest joy, light of the soul, the Master who fills

The hearts of those that trust in You with bliss; the giver of endless precious gifts.

Even though I am lacking, I am still Your slave, You have made me Your own; if this be so

Your servant’s worthiness would show. I wonder, was Your gift of grace done in jest?

59.

O Lord, no one knows Your true nature! I am an evil dog, the lowest of all.

Yet haven’t You made me Your own? Will You abandon me? If You leave me

Then who will look after me? What shall I do, O Peruman?

Father, whose sacred form gleams like gold, where shall I find refuge?

60.

I shall worship Your feet among the saints that adore You. Standing here,

I shall laugh, happy to gaze upon Your well-known form. Shameless dog that I am,

No heart melting love is here! To see You, to be made Your own, can I

Be worthy?  O Father, this pitiful state is beyond my power to bear!

Decad 7 – Karuniyattal Irangal

The Overwhelming Sense of the Divine Compassion (Praising the lord for His compassion and asking His grace)

61.

I bear no more the joys of the senses: Shankara, I praise You!

Hail! Heaven’s ancient Lord. Hail! Our Chief!

Hail Matchless One! Hail! King of the heavenly hosts!

Hail! Tillai’s Dancer! All Hail! Our Spotless One!

62.

All hail! Namasivaya! Buyangan! My senses fail!

All hail! Namasivaya! There is no other refuge but You!

All hail! Namasivaya! Please do send me away!

All hail! Namasivaya! Jaya, Jaya, triumph, hail!

63.

Hail! Loving One, Who deigns to make false ones like me Your own!

Hail! To Your holy feet! Hail! O Lord! Hail, hail!

Hail! Sweetness new, flood of mercy! O God! You are earth, water, fire,

Wind, ether, and the sun and moon — the two lights of heaven.

64.

Hail, O my God! Look upon me and give Your grace; Hail!

Hail! Please melt my soul within me and make me Yours!

Hail! Release me from this body and let me enter the heavenly realms!

Hail! Shankara, With Ganga in Your braided hair!

65.

Hail! O Shankara, I have no other refuge but You!

Hail! Partner of the Queen of glorious form, with red lips,

A gleaming smile, and bright dark eyes! Hail! Rider on the mighty Bull

I can no longer bear these earthly joys, our Lord, I renounce it all!

66.

I have myself renounced, even I; Hail, hail, our Lord!

I have not done You wrong! Hail! The feet to which I owe service!

Hail! To forgive our faults is the duty of the great!

O cause this earthly life to cease! Hail, Lord of heaven!

67.

Hail, Lord! Hail! You who are King of heavenly saints!

Conjoined with the graceful form of Your Queen, Hail!

Wearer of the sacred ash, Hail! Worthy Prince! 

Hail! Lord of Thillai’s sacred golden hall!

Hail!! King of heaven! My only Ruler, Hail!

68.

Hail!, Unique Deity! Incomparable Father, Hail!

Hail! Guru of the heavenly ones! Hail!! Tender shoot!

Hail, Bid me come to You.  Please receive me and grant me

The grace of Your feet and thus remove my lonely, friendless sorrow!

69.

Hail, to those who love with perfect love, Giver of love surpassing theirs!

Hail! Greatness that removed my falsehood, granted grace, and made me Yours!

Hail! Prince, Who drank the poison from the churning ocean and gave the nectar to the Gods.

Hail! Place Your perfect foot on me, a wretch, and bestow Your grace!

70.

Hail! You who are earth, water, fire, wind and ether too!

Hail! You, all life’s phenomena, Yourself invisible!

Hail, The end of all living beings, Yourself without an end!

Yourself reaching through all, but unreached by the five senses!

Decad 8 -Ananthathu Azhuthal

Mystic Union (Wanting to experience the joy of the Lord and unite with Him)

71.

Sire, as in strict Union, You made me Yours; You looked upon me and drew me near;

And when it seemed I never could be made one with You, when nothing of Yours was mine,

And nothing of mine was Yours, Your love joined me to Your feet in mystic union, 

Lord of the heavenly land! This is the height of blessedness.

72.

For it’s blessedness that I seek; not Indra’s choice delights, nor those of other Gods;

You Only-One, I can’t live without Your holy Feet! Our Lord, my heart bursts,

Seized with trembling; my hands join in adoration;

And a ceaseless stream pours down from my eyes, like of a river, O my sage!

73.

My Sage, except to Yourself there’s none to whom I cling; – I am a deceitful one

In whom no part of mingled falseness escapes; I’m falsehood’s self! O partner of Her whose dark

Eyes gleam, please come to me! I want the kind of love that your true devotees feel,

Who, in commingling love, rest at Your jewelled Feet. For this I pray!

74.

I pray for the love of Your jewelled Feet; remove the false from me; in truth make me

Your own; dog though I am, O bid me come, in grace to join to Yourself

To be forever more Your own! So let me ceaselessly praise You. Please come to me

If I must be reborn; my King, that I may worship You!

75.

You, they worship, both the earth and heaven, along with the fourfold mystic Vedas: that praise You

With shouts of joy. Yet they yearn for you; for even those who reach You do not truly know You.

Ah! Since we’ve vowed to never quit Your service, come

And grant me Your grace, O Partner of the young and lovely Queen! 

76.

When pondering You my thought goes forth, but the goal of reaching you through thought

Is unattainable; nor is this something heard or known through words.

You, who are the whole world, the five senses do not know.

How can I reach the Father’s feet that rest in all that is and every sphere beyond?

77.

To me, a guileful soul, who thought to reach You, Lord, there’s no salvation

Except by You. No other Being truly is, except You! Lest pining sorrow come,

In mercy to my sin, please condescend to guard my soul.

It’s pitying grace like this alone, Celestial Ruler, that befits Your glory..

78.

“Celestial Ruler, there’s none but You, either here or there,” I was forever saying,

Fool though I was, as “here or there” are the same to You! O Spotless One,

Who made me, an outcast wretch, Your own; You my Guru.

The thought that any other God exists but You, the One, my mind shall never think!

79.

By thought, by deed, by hearing, or by speech, or by these wretched five senses,

I have failed to attain Your Truth- I am a low and foolish one.

I did not pass through the fire, my heart did not burst with shame.

O Father, I long to reach You! May I dwell with You soon!

80.

I’m a deceitful one and iron hearted, yet You made me Your own; 

The sweet bliss of Your gracious feet filled me with joy; as You commingled with me. 

The fire was there and I was there: that was which was! Though this was so that day,

There was in You desire for me and in me for You – what ignorance was mine?

Decad 9- Anantha Paravacam

Ecstasy (Desiring the ecstasy of uniting with the Lord)

81.

You’ve placed me here on Earth saying “The seed of lies is not yet destroyed.”

All those that were to Your desire have come, and reached Your sacred Feet! —

While I sink in depths of fear.  O God who asked for alms in Thiruvarur,

What shall I do? Please tell me!

82.

I was besmeared with sacred ash, welcomed among Your saints,

I’ve been abused by men on Earth for being Your poor slave; henceforth, if what

I suffer does not please, it’s what my soul desires, because I am

Your slave, whom You made Your own!

83.

And am I not Your slave? And didn’t You make me Your own?

All Your servants have reached Your feet; 

but I fear that I can’t leave this body, full of bad karma,

And see Your face, O Lord of the Siva-world!

I don’t know how to see You!

84.

I don’t know how to see You; though I saw you before! Please speak

In music and say what it is that weighs my spirit down, O Heavenly Light!

You are male, female, rare ambrosia! I die, a dog, bereft of power.

By what method may I rise up to You, my Lord?

85.

O Lord, conjoined with Your doe-eyed Queen; You are the Vedas, 

But the Vedas do not know You. You are sweet ambrosia, unknown by thought; 

O King, You bear the faults of a wretch like me.

Babbling, I tell my woes. Your saints have reached Your blessed heavenly city, 

But I and my falseness wander here outside!

86.

Outside we go, falsehood and I!  I’ve lost the power to gain true love.

That’s all that I have gained! Your saints who now are joined to You,

Know nothing else but You; in glorious acts they go on their way!

O Siva, they have reached Your feet!

87. 

O Master, give Your slave the ability to love Your feet; Your servants have gained

The world from which they do not return; while I have remained outside like

The blind village cow, unable to follow the herd. Estranged from love of

Your feet, I am Your bewildered and weeping slave.

88.

I weep! With loving minds devoted to You, they were like wax before the fire.

They have beheld Your gleaming, golden, jewelled feet and worshipping

Have followed You. But I, not following with them, have been born in vain!

How shall I bow before You?

89.

In grace You have removed all the ills of those that bowed before You; 

You have bestowed the grace of Your ornamented feet on those ancient saints.

If that’s too great for me, please destroy my karma, which is like a tough bamboo;

Please come swiftly and give me the healing grace from Your feet.

You who are the only True Lord, free me from falsehood.

90.

I am falsehood itself; false is my heart; and false is my love. Even though his karma is bad, 

If he weeps, won’t Your servant reach You, and gain Your ambrosial sweetness?

Lord of all pure honied gladness, please give Your grace and show Your servant 

The way that he may come to You!

Decad 10 – Anantha Athitham

The Overflow of Rapture (Longing for the extreme joy of uniting with the Lord)

91.

O Flood of mighty changeless grace! They came,

Those who’d gained the changeless gift

Of staying beneath Your two flower-wreathed Feet.

They, by truly loving You, have reached the Truth!

You, Endless One, benignly manifest as man,

Diffusing light, I saw You come!

Yet I, a dog, whose heart is unblessed by fate,

Lie at the gate in such low a low state. Ah me!

92.

O Half of Her whose eyes are lined with kohl,

You came and made me Yours, 

Like feeding me from a golden cup with a tender hand;

Since then I never think that You are hard to approach;

You on whose body the white ashes gleam!

Your true loving devotees have truly reached Your feet,

But, tell me, is it right that You should go

And leave me here, thus to fall into falsehood?

93.

I was unworthy. The false I took for true.

But when, with a loving glance, You made me come to You,

All my afflictions ceased! But now deceit seems like truth.

I have not died, O blooming lotus Feet!

O roseate Form, You have gone on high with Your devotees, 

To whom Your grace was given, and left me here alone.

Lord, hear my complaint. There’s no end of bad karma for worthless me!

94.

There was no love in me towards Your feet,

O Half of Her with beauteous fragrant locks!

But by the magic power that converts stones to mellow fruit,

You made me a lover of Your feet.

Our Lord, Your tender love knows no limit.

Whatever sways me now, whatever I do,

You can, even yet, show Your feet to me again

and release me from my faulty karma, O Spotless Heavenly One!

95.

You whom the lords of heaven themselves do not know!

The Vedas cannot trace Your source and end!

You whom men in every land fail to know!

As You have sweetly made me Yours and made

This body of flesh to dance on the stage of Earth;

You’ve made me love You with melting soul,

And, have caused me to move, in mystic drama-

Pining on earth, O Lord of magic power! 

96.

Without a seed, You created the fruit which is

The entirety of heaven and earth.

Everything therein You have ordained, and will destroy! 

Me too, lowly and deceitful, You filled with frenzy 

Within Your temple gates and made me join the band

Of Your great loving devotees! Even if the tree

They plant were to yield poison, men will not destroy it;

And I am like that tree, O my owner and my Lord!

97.

Owner and Lord, all hail! Besides Yourself,

Has Your servant any other support to cling to?

I serve You, hail! Transcendent Being, Lord

Of those who dwell in the heavenly courts, all hail!

I have become lowest of all, all hail!

You who’ve given every Grace, all hail!

You who made me Your servant, hail!

You are the first and last, my father, hail!

98.

My father! You are Ambrosia to me!

O Blest Supreme! You are like honey

That flows abundantly, thrilling the soul with bliss!

Your loving devotees enjoy You as their own!

You are my helper! Crowned with glistening glory,

You are In the weary anguish of Your worshippers.

O Treasure! Tell me, will You leave me here,

To pine away in this poor world, our King?

99.

O King, our Lord, come to me, to me!

You who existed before the four-faced Brahma and Vishnu,

And all the Gods. Our Lord, come to me, to me!

After that day when all things will have their end

You will remain! Our Lord, come to me, to me!

I would utter praise at Your jewelled feet

With a loving tongue! Our Lord, Sin’s-slayer, come to me,

To me, that I may sing of Your glories!

100.

I long to sing Your praise, all hail! Sing Your praise!

While all my being sinks and melts in love,

I long to dance, all hail!  I long to join You,

In Your blessed court, before Your dancing lotus feet, all hail!  

I, a dog, remove me from this nest of worms, all hail! 

The false I long to Ieave behind, all hail! 

Grant me moksha and Your home, all hail!

Hail, You who are Truth to Your true servants!

8.008 Thiruvammaanai (120 lines)

Author: Manikkavasagar

Translation: G.U. Pope

1-6

Great mal, the fiery-eyed, delved down, but failed to reach

His foot’s expanding flower! To earth that foot came down,

Our birth’ cut off, made those like us His own.-Lord of

The south-landis clustering cocoa-groves, and Perun-turrai’s shrine,

And Tillai’s sacred court,-a sage He came, call’d me in grace’

And gave release. SING we His foot whence mercy flows! AMMANAY, SEE!

7-12

To men on earth, to heavenly ones, to those beneath,

To those beyond, He’s scarce made known; to us accessible!

The Name revered, the South-King, Perun-turrai’s Lord

Entering our souls, with frenzy filled them, showed the final way.

Unsating Nectar, – in the billowy sea He cast His net;

The Sea of full desire SING we! AMMAANAY, SEE!

13-18

Inthiran, mal, all the other heavenly ones,

Stood round in upper air; – Civan in grace to earth came down,

Made those like us His own. His arm the sacred ashes shows;

All-glorious Perun-turrai’s Lord, who comes our hearts to thrill;

To loose our bonds He on a charger rode, and gave

Unending raptures; SING the bliss! AMMAANAY, SEE!

19.24

The gods who filled the heavens, – mal, Ayan, Indra too,

Sore penance did, like anthills stood, yet know Him not!

To me a cur He came, with mother-love He lent His aid;

In flesh He came, with trembling rapture thrilled me through –

Honied ambrosia’s Essence pure; the jewell’d foot

That trends the skies in gleaming light SING we! AMMAANAY, SEE!

25-30

The Mighty One, the South-King, Perun-turrai’s Lord,

Me vilest cur, of mind untaught, with frenzy filled;

Kneaded the stone, made it sweet fruit; plunged in the flood

Of mercy; all my sin destroyed. To Him, the Sage,

Who Tillai’s city entering, in the sacred court abides,

The ancient Rider of the Bull, SING we! AMMAANAY, SEE!

31-36

And hast thou heard, my friend, how-one with falsehood came?

The Lord of Perun-turrai’s southern shrine begirt

With storied walls, showed things ne’er shown before, showed bliss,

Showed us His lotus foot, and honey of His grace; –

While rustics laughed, – that we the heavenly home might gain,

He made us His; SING we this grace! AMMAANAY, SEE!

37-42

Indweller in the heart of those who ceaseless ponder Him;

The Faroff-One; the Warrior; ever-loving habitant

Of Perun-turrai’s southern shrine; the Sage; half of Whose form

The Lady shares; the Love’d-One Who made me, mere cur, His own;

With mother-love Who visits men; the sevenfold world

Whose essence is; Ruler of souls; SING we! AMMAANAY, SEE!

43-48

Half of the Queen, whose grace accepts our melodies,

The mighty Lord, the King of Perun-turrai’s shrine; –

He rules the expanded sphere of renowned of upper heaven;

The Godwith eye in midmost of His brow; in Madura

Distreat, He carried earth for hire; was smitten by the King, –

SING we His golden form that bore the wounds! AMMAANAY, SEE!

49-54

His the crescent; His the mystic word; Perun-turrai’s King;

He wears the twisted thread; He rides the glorious bull;

Black is His throat; His body red; He smears the ashes white;

First in all worlds is He, the rapture without end

As in the days of yore to ancient saints in grace He gives!

That all the worlds may wonder, SING! AMMAANAY, SEE!

55-60

The Sage above the gods that rule the heavens; Who stands

In majesty above the kings that rule this earth;

The pleasant pandi-land, whose gift is Tamir’s pleasant speech, is His;

The Bridegroom of the Queen; in Perun-turrai, His delight,

He showed His gracious feet, made me, a dog, His own;

Annamalai’s His shrine, SINE we! AMMAANAY, SEE!

61-66

The fair Queen’s Half; of southern Perun-turrai Lord;

Whose Nature thrills the souls that cling around His feet;

The Sire who made that Paandi-land the Civa-world;

Adown Whose braided lock the waters flow; Whose blissful jewell’d foot

Abides within their souls, who rightly render them to Him;

Beyond the furthest limits praise uplift! AMMAANAY, SEE!

67-72

Listen, O damsel with the jet-black eyes! Mal, Ayan, indra too,

Through every ‘birth’ sought Him, me, with sweet grace, in this one births

He made His own; guards me that I may suffer ‘births’ no more;

In all that’s real, manifest; the true His biding-place;

The Self in all that is, is He; of everything the Home;

Our Civan, Who that essence is, SING we! AMMAANAY, SEE!

73-78

While bracelets tinkling around, – while ear-rings wave – while jetty locks

Disheveled fall, – while honey flows, and beetles hum;

The Ruddy-One Who wears the ashes white, Whose home

None reach or know, who dwells in every place, – to loving ones

The True, the Sage Whom hearts untrue still deem untrue,

Who in Ai-Aru dwells, SING we and praise! AMMAANAY, SEE!

79-84

As elephant, as worm, in human shapes, in forms divine,

In other births diverse, – I lived and died, – was wearied sore;

He stood in flesh revealed, melted my soul; and joyous drove

My sin away; with every sweetness filled; and as a king

In grace appearing, in His service me received;

That Heavenly One’s foot-flower SING we, AMMAANAY, SEE!

85-90

He made the moon grow dim in Dakshan’s sacrifice;

He Indra’s shoulder crushed; cut off the ‘Ecchan’s head;

Teet of the bright-beamed sun, that rides the sky, He broke;

Dispersed the gods, and drove away to every point;

Lord of South Perun-turrai’s shrine with flow’ry groves

Begirt; the Fragrant-garlanded, SING we, AMMANAAY, SEE!

91-96

His Presence mingled in my body, and thought;

As honey, rare ambrosia, every choicest sweet

He gave His grace, in ways the heavenly ones know not;

The Warrior crowned with cassia’s honied flowers; as glorious light

Of wisdom known, with souls in number infinite,

Their King He dwells, this tell we out! AMMAANAY, SEE!

97-102

I’ll wear the flow’ry ‘cassia’ wreath, and wearing join myself

To Civan’s mighty arm; and joining cling in rapture lost;

Then shrinking shall I melt with love of His red lip;

I’ll seek Him,- seeking i’ll ponder Civan’s jewell’d foot;

I’ll faint and droop, and yet again revive. The ruddy foot

Of Him who dances there ‘mid fire SING we! AMMANAAY, SEE!

103-108

In light He gleams, Her Half whose words as Parrot’s note are soft,

The Sage whom mal and Ayan coming forth could not discern;

In glorious Perun-turrai’s grove with honied fragrance filled,

In mercy affable, and sweetest grace transcending thought,

In light He came, caused light within my soul to shine;

The brahman full of tenderness SING we! AMMANAAY, SEE!

109-114

The Primal One, End of the Three, beyond the End

The After One, with braided lock, of Perun-turrai which He guards

The King, the Heavenly-One, the Partner of the Queen;

Who dwells in southern Anai-ka, the southern pandi-land

Who owns, Ambrosia sweet to those who call Him theirs,

To such as one, the Father, SING we praise! AMMANAAY, SEE!

115-120

The mighty Lord whose nature others know not, – Perun-turrai’s King

In grace upon victorious charger riding came;

His servant’s faults removed; gave virtue, cleansed from stain;

Severed the clinging cords of earthly ties! His praises old

We cling to, – so may earthly bonds be loosed; the mighty bliss

Of Him to whom we cling, SING we!, AMMAANAY, SEE!

8.011 Tiru Tellenam (80 lines)

Author: Manikkavasagar

Translation: G.U. Pope

1-4

Mal’s self went forth a boar; but failed His sacred Foot

To find, that we His form might know, a Sage He came,

And made me His! To Him, Who hath nor name, nor form,

A thousand sacred names SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

5.8

The Lord in Perun-turrai’s ever-hallowed shrine

Who dwelt, my birth with all its germs destroyed; since when

I’ve none else; formless is He,- a form He wears,

The Lord of blest Arur SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

9-12

To Hari and to Brahma and to other gods

Not manifested, Civan came in presence there,

Melted our hearts, received our service due; that all

The world may hear, and smile, SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

13-16

From sinking in the vain abyss of worthless gods,-

From birth’s illusions all,- the LIGHT SUPERNAL saved

And made me His. Soon as the new, pure Light, was given

How I in Bliss was lost: SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

17-20

To wildered gods, to Ayan, and to Mal unknown,

Civan assumed a form, that men on earth should joy.

That germs of birth consumed might die, with gracious glance,

How to my soul He came, SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

21-24

The Lord, Who shakes the serpent dancing round His waist,

With His Hill-partner, came to earth, made us His own;-

Say thus, soul-lighted, eyes like full bright lotus flowers,

Pouring forth floods of tears, and SINGING, BEAT TELLENAM!

25-28

Civan unknown to Hari, Ayan, heavenly ones,

On earth drew even me; ‘come, come,’ said He, and made me His!

When imprint of His flow’ry Feet was on my head impressed,

How grace divine was mine, SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

29-32

Like rustling palm-leaves is this frame! Its births and deaths,

With dread of good and ill, He swept away, and made me His;

He gave me grace, though I, all else forget, ne’er to forget

His Foot; Whose mighty dance SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

33-36

As though some stone were made sweet fruit, the Lord in grace

Gave ev’n to me His golden Foot, and made me His.

O ye with slender waist, red lips, and winsome smiles!

‘Lord of the Southern-Land,’ call Him; AND BEAT TELLENAM!

37-40

Even in a dream His jewelled Feet ’tis hard for gods to see,-

With Her like laurel tree with jewelled arms,-entering in grace,

In waking hour He took, and made me His! With loving souls

Your art-like eyes be filled with tears, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

41-44

When He, Her spouse whose eyes shine bright, mixt with my soul,

And made me His, deeds and environments died out;

Upon this earth confusion died; all other mem’ries ceas’d;

How all my ‘doings’ died, SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

45-48

Ascetic bands sore languish’d, longing for release.

Grace to the elephant he gave, made me His own;

The light suprene deep plunged me in devotion’s sea!

How sweet His mercy is, SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

49-52

Not those on earth, nor in th’ abyss, nor heavenly ones,-

To none beside, so near He drew; He made me His!

To sing His advent, or Him, th’ only Great, conceive

Is hard, His glory-song SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

53-56

Mal, Ayan, all the gods, and Sciences divine,

His essence cannot pierce. This Being rare drew near to me;

In love He thrilled my soul! With this remembrance moved,

Let your bright eyes with tears o’erflow, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

57-60

The spreading sea of grace superne that melts and swells,

From which ’tis sweet to draw and drink, we gather round.

The Feet of the bright southern Lord call we to mind,

His slaves, praise we His sacred grace, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

61-64

Buddhan, Purandaran, the primal Ayan, Mal, praise Him,

The One-distraught, Who dwells in Perun-turrai’s shrine, -the Sire

Who made births cease,-Lord of fair Tillai’s porch, His gracious Feet

How in my soul they entered, SING, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

65-68

I lay bewildere’d in the barren troublous sea

Of sects and systems wide discordant all;-

My care He banished, gave in grce His jewelled Feet;

Praise we His gracious acts, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

69-72

Though Ether, Wind, Water, Earth should fail,

His constant Being fails not, knows no weariness!

In Him my body, soul, and thought, and mind were merged.

How all myself was lost, SING WE, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

73-76

Prime Source of heavenly ones, the Germ of those beneath,

Earth’s Balm; Mal’s, Ayan’s Treasure, open eyed

We saw, SING YE, His gracious feet, Who dwelt with us!

Call Him ‘Lord of the Southern-Land,’ AND BEAT TELLENAM!

77-80

Sing His race; sing the heron’s wing; Her beauty sing

Who wears bright gems; sing how He poison ate; each day

In Tillai’s temple court He dances, where the waters play;

His tinkling anklets’ music SING, AND BEAT TELLENAM!

8.012 Tiru Caral (80 lines)

Author: Manikkavasagar

Translation: G.U. Pope

1-4

[Objection] What He smears is ‘white ash’; what He wears is an angry snake;

What He speaks with His lips divine is the mystic word, it seems; MY DEAR!

[Answer] What He smears, what He says, what He wears are the means by which He,

As my Lord, rules me; and of all that hath life the Essence is He! CARALO!

5-8

Obj. ‘My Father, Embiran, to all indeed is Ruler Supreme;

Yet He wears a clouted kovanam;’ and why should this be so, MY DEAR?

Ans. The Vedas four, the meaning with which all lore is fraught, as the great thread

Himself alone as kovanam He spreads; behold, CARALO!

9-12

Obj. His shrine’s the burning ground; fierce tiger skin His goodly garb;

All motherless and fatherless is He; all lonely dwelleth; see, MY DEAR!

Ans.Motherless is He and fatherless; dwelleth all aone; but though’tis thus,

If He be wroth, the worlds to powder crumble all; behold, CARALO!

13-16

Obj. Ayan, the ‘Bodiless,’ with Anthagan, and Canthiran,

In divers ways He wounded sore, yet slew not; see, MY DEAR!

Ans. He Whose eyes are three, the Ruler great, if He shall punish,

Is’t not a triumph to the heav’nly ones, O thou with flowing locks? CARALO!

17-20

Obj. Of Dakshan He smote off the head, off Eccan too; the hosts of gods

That flocking came He sent to nothingness; why this, MY DEAR?

Ans. Them who thronging came to nothingness He sent; ’twas grace!

In grace to Eccan too He gave one head the more; see CARALO!

21-24

Obj. Him the flow’ry god and Mal knew not; in fiery form He came

From earth that stretch’d to lower worlds; wherefore was this, MY DEAR?

Ans. From earth to realms beneath had He not reach’d, they twain

The insolence of self-esteem had not cast off; behold, CARALO!

25-28

Obj.Soon as the mountain maid as part of Him He placed, another dame

In watery form upon His braided locks poured down! Why this, MY DEAR?

Ans. Upon His braided locks in watery form had she not leaped, the world

To cavernous destruction rushing ruined must have lain! CARALO!

29-32

Obj. He ate halalam from the sounding sea, that day arisen

With mighty din; what means this wondrous act, MY DEAR?

Ans. Had He not eaten on that day the posion fierce, Ayan and Mal

And all the other gods of upper heaven had died; behold, CARALO!

33-36

Obj. The Lord of Tillai’s court, Who in the southern land delights, and dances there,

A mighty maniac, delighted in the female form, behold, MY DEAR!

Ans. Had He not delighted in the female form, all in the wide world

Would have obtained heaven’s bliss and earth had failed; behold, CARALO! (36)

37-40

Obj. He is the endless One; and me, a dog, who came to Him,

He plunged in tide of rapturous bliss unending; behold, MY DEAR!

Ans. The sacred Feet that plunged me in rapture’s flowing tide

Are treasure rich to gods in upper heaven that dwell; behold, CARALO!

41-44

Obj. Lady! What’s this ascetic rite? Sinews and bone He wears,

A bony circlet on His arm He loves to bear; behold, MY DEAR!

Ans. The way of the bony circlet hear! In the end of the age

When the two had reached their fated hour, He put it on; hehold, CARALO!

45-48

Obj. His garb is the skin of the forest tiger; He eats from a skull;

The wild is His city; to Him here who will service pay? MY DEAR!

Ans. Yet, hear thou! Ayan and sacred Mal, and the King

Of them of the heavenly land, are His humble and faithful ones; CARALO!

49-52

Obj. The mountain monarch’s golden Daughter bright of brow, the Lady blest,

He wedded with the fire as all the world doth know; what’s that? Say, MY DEAR!

Ans. Had He not wedded Her for all the world to know, the world entire

Had in confusion lost the import true of every lore; behold, CARALO!

53-56

Obj. The Lord of Tillai’s court, by cool palms girt, whence honey drips,

There entering does a mystic dance perform; what’s that, MY DEAR?

Ans. Had He not enter’d there, all the wide earth had quick become

Abode of demons armed with flesh-transfixing appears; CARALO!

57-60

Obj. On stately elephant, swift stead, or car it pleased Him not to ride;

A bull He pleased to mount! Explain me this that I may know, MY DEAR!

Ans. The day He burnt with fire the triple mighty walls,

Mal divine a bull became to bear Him up; behold, CARALO!

61-64

Obj. Well to the four, the fourfold mystic scrolls’ deep sense,

That day, beneath the banyan tree, and virtue He reveal’d; behold, MY DEAR!

Ans.That day, beneath the banyan tree, though virtue He revealed,

He utterly destroyed the cities three; begold, CARALO!

65-68

Obj. In the sacred hall He dances, and wanders abroad to beg for alms;

This homeless mendicant shall we approach as god? How so, MY DEAR?

Ans. Hear thou the nature of this sacred mendicant! Him Vedas four know not;

But they’ve invok’d Him Lord and Ican, praising loud; behold, CARALO!

69-72

Obj. When He smote down Jalandharan, the monster of the sea, that disc

To Naranan, the good, in grace He gave; how’s that, MY DEAR?

Ans. Since Naranan, the good, dug out an eye, and laid at Aran’s foot,

As flower, to him in grace the disc He gave; behold, CARALO!

73-76

Obj. His garment is the spotted hide; His food the fiery poison dark.

Is this our Peruman’s great skill? Expound that I may know, MY DEAR!

Ans. Our Peruman,- whatever He wore there,- whate’er He ate,-

The greatness of His Nature none can know; behold, CARALO!

77-80

Obj. To saints of goodness rare, beneath the Al, virtue and all the Four He taught;

Explain to me the grace He showed, seated with them, MY DEAR!

Ans. Had He not taught that day in grace, the worthy saints virtue and all the Four,

To noble souls this world’s nature had ne’er been known! Behold, CARALO!

8.018 Kuyil pathu (40 lines)

Author: Manikkavasagar

Translation: G.U. Pope

1-4

O KUYIL, sweet of song, if thou dost seek our Peruman to know;

If thou would’st ask of His twain feet; they’re planted’neath the sevenfold gulf.

Would’st hear of His bright jewell’d crown? ‘Tis glory old that passes speech.

Nor origin, nor qualities hath He, nor end; CALL HIM TO COME!

5-8

Him the fair sevenfold world extols,- since every being’s form is His;-

In southern sea-girt Lanka He, the Lord Who Perun-turrai owns,

Vandothari the beautiful, made glad with His abounding grace!

KUYIL, the southern Pandi Chief, CALL HITHER with thy voice divine!

9-12

KUYIL with form of azure hue! In Uttara-koca-mangai’s shrine,

Where bright the sacred temple stands, whose storied tenements rise decked with gems,

One with the graceful Lady’s flower-like form in virtue sweetly rich He dwells,-

The loving Lord by whom the world grows bright,- go thou, and HITHER CALL!

13-16

Thou KUYIL small, that dost frequent the grove with sweet fruit rich, hear this!

The Gracious-One Who left the heavens, enter’d this earth, made men His own;

The Only-One, despised the flesh, entered my soul, and fills my thought;-

The Bridegroom of the Fawn-eyed-one that gently rules,- GO HITHER CALL!

17-20

KUYIL, whose beauty is delight! Like sun with circling radiant beams,

Through upper heaven come down, He frees His saints from thrall of low desire;

The First, the Midst, the End is He;- the Three knew not His sacred form;-

His feet are bright with crimson glow;-the mighty Warrior CALL TO COME!

21-24

KUYIL, glad pleasure give I Thee! The sevenfold worlds He rules;-

The Loving-One ambrosia gives;- the Blissful-God came down from heaven,

And on the goodly charger rode like jewel set in ruddy gold.

KUYIL, ‘mid branches twittering, Gokari’s Lord GO, CALL TO COME!

25-28

KUYIL, i’ll joy in thee, and be thy comrade, ever by the side;-

Him of the beauteous form Who shines, more choice than gold, in glory bright;

The King, Who on the horse in splendour rode, in Perun-turrai dwells!-

The Southern-One, the Ceran, Coran, great Buyangan, CALL TO COME!

29-32

O tender KUYIL, come thou here! Mal sought Him, and the ‘Four-faced’-one,

Nor found, then ceased, and pondering stood. Cleaving the heaven, in shining fire,

Beyond all worlds He rose that day, His body like the light rayed out.

On prancing steed a groom He rode; CALL Him with streaming lock TO COME!

33-36

KUYIL, thy dark form gleams with gold; thou in the fragrant grove dost joy!

The Blest, Whose glorious form is bright as splendour of the lotus red,

On earth, showed us His feet; set free from every bond, and made me His.

The beauteous cinctured golden Form,th’ Ambrosial-One, GO CALL TO COME!

37-40

Hear this, thou KUYIL, calling ‘midst the grove whose shady boughs enlace!

A Brahman here He came, revealed His beauteous rosy feet to me.

‘This man is one of us,’ He said, and here in grace made me His own!

The LORD OF GODS, Whose sacred form is as red fire, GO BID TO COME!

8.028 vaazhap pathu (40 lines)

Author: Manikkavasagar

Translation: Himalayan Academy

1-4

1-4

O Transcendent One, who pervades both heaven and earth,

You see that I cling to You alone –

O king of Shivapuram, shining in glorious beauty.

Siva, who dwells in holy Perunturrai’s shrine;

You have made me Yours.

Who can I blame, to whom can I complain, if You deny me Your grace?

You see there’s no joy for me upon this ocean-encircled world.

Be gracious and call me to You!

5-8.

O Precious Gem, through grace You made me Yours. Me, the worthless one.

You can see that I cling to You alone.

Even those in heaven do not know Your unique form.

Brahma and Vishnu could not comprehend Your power which pierces all the worlds.

You are the glorious Lord, O King of Shivapuram.

The mighty Lord who dwells in Perunturrai’s shrine;

You are the ruler of my soul.

9-12

I seek only Your foot of Grace that Vishnu has extolled in song;

You can see that I cling to You alone –

O king of Shivapuram, You searched for me and made me Yours!

Siva, who dwells in Perunturrai’s shrine;

Though I complain, my soul delights in You.

To gain more of Your love is all that I desire;

You can see that my heart is faint and I have no joy in living.

Be gracious; let me come to You!

13-16

You whose fire consumed the gleaming city of the Asuras,

You can see that I cling to You alone –

O king of Shivapuram who dances in Thillai’s golden hall!

Siva, who dwells in holy Perunturrai’s shrine.

Brahma and Vishnu searched through all three worlds that day

And could not find the beginning or end of Your mighty pillar of flame.

You see I have no joy in this world.

Be gracious; let me come to You!

17-20

You who have shared Your left side with Your consort-

She whose words are like the sweetest melody!

You can see that I cling to You alone.

Truly, You have made me Yours, O king of Shivapuram.

Siva, who dwells in holy Perunturrai’s shrine; 

I place my whole being: my body, mouth, nose, ears and eyes

In Your control.

You can see that Your servant has no joy upon this Earth.

Be gracious; let me come to You!

21-24

United with Her whose footsteps are soft as cotton.

You can see that I cling to You alone.

You made me Yours alone, O king of Shivapuram.

Siva, who dwells in holy Perunturra’s shrine;

You made me Your own, even though I am not worthy.

Lost in the turmoil of the senses, I had forgotten Your grace.

You see that I am lost in deception and have no joy in this world.

Be gracious; let me come to You!

25-28

You are the light that shines like the sun through all the worlds.

You can see that I cling to You alone.

Holy One, supremely glorious king of Shivapuram;

Siva, who dwells in Perunturrai’s shrine;

I see You and my melting soul dissolves.

I’m bewildered; knowing no way to enjoy this life.

You can see that I, the child of Folly, can feel no joy in living.

Be gracious; let me come to You!

29-32

Conjoined with Her whose fingers are adorned with rare jewels.

You can see that I cling to You alone.

You are like a red flame, O king of Shivapuram.

Siva, who dwells in Perunturrai’s shine;

Endless Ambrosia, Essence rare and great.

Rare Ambrosia-You saved me, Your servant, and made me Yours.

You can see that there’s no joy for me in this life.

Be gracious; let me come to You!

33-36

You are the destroyer of sins.

I have nothing to cling to except Your healing foot of Grace.

God of all Gods, O king of Shivapuram,

Siva, who dwells in sacred Perunturrai’s shine;

Spanning the three worlds, above and below Brahma and Vishnu;

As a roaring pillar of fire You appeared. 

Oh lord of Nandi the bull, You can see that I have no joy in living.

 Be gracious; let me come to You!

37-40

United with Her, Your bride, whose faultless fame comes down from ancient times.

You see that I cling to You alone.

You wear the crescent moon in Your hair, O king of Shivapuram.

Siva, who dwells in holy Perunturrai; 

Shall I bow down to others? Shall I praise them?

Should I think they will come to my aid? Please tell me!

O Lord of the youthful bull, You see that I know no joy.

Be gracious; let me come to You!

8.029 arut pathu (40 lines)

Author: Manikkavasagar

Translation: Himalayan Academy

1.

O Lamp spreading effulgent beams of light!

You are conjoined with the Lady who has curly locks and a youthful form;

You are the Supreme Lord, who wears the milk-white holy ash!

O God of Justice, whom neither Brahma, seated on the lotus, nor Vishnu

Could find!  You who rested beneath

The Kuruntham tree’s flowery shade in Thiruperunturrai.

O Great First of Beings! When Your servant longingly calls,

Please give Your grace and come to quell his fear!

2.

O Dancer! Spotless One! O ash-besmeared!

A central eye upon Your brow! Lord of heaven’s host!

Sole Deity! I looked for You through all the world,

Lamenting loudly, but did not find You.

You who reposed beneath the Kuruntham’s flowery shade

Beside the pleasant lake in holy Perunturrai.

Great Source of Being! When Your servant longingly calls,

Please give Your grace and come to quell his fear!

3.

Our Leader! Ruler of my life and soul!

Whom two ladies, with perfumed flowing locks,

Claim as their Spouse! Lord of the fiery eye!

Whose glance caused fire to spring from Dakshan’s frame,

And goodly Kaman’s too! You who stayed beneath

The Kuruntham trees’s flowery shade in sacred Perunturrai.

Great Anganan! When Your servant longingly calls,

Please give Your grace and come to quell his fear!

4.

The four-faced Brahma seated on the lotus, and Kannan too,

Dark as the azure sky, could not approach

You, Pure One! When they prayed for You to shine forth,

Father! You appeared as mighty flame.

You who rested beneath the Kuruntham’s flowery shade

In Veda-echoing Thiruperunturrai.

Great spotless Being! When Your servant longingly calls,

Please give Your grace and come to quell his fear!

5.

Your dear wife, waist thin as a drum, You hold in tight embrace.

The sacred ash upon Your shining chest is smudged by Her breasts.

You who rested in holy Perunturrai’s encircling woods

Beneath the Kuruntham tree’s flowery shade.

O glorious Teacher! When Your servant longingly calls,

Please give Your grace and come to quell his fear!

6.

O pure and happy One! You are like a diamond

Whose radiant beams shine amid pure white ashes!

You give intense sweetness in the hearts of those who think of You. 

You, rare Ambrosia, who stayed beneath the Kuruntham’s flowery shade

In sacred Perunturrai’s home of Vedic lore.

O glorious father, When Your servant longingly calls,

Please give Your grace and come to quell his fear!

7.

You, True One, with many forms; with Meru as Your bow,

You destroyed the three cities of Your demon foe!

Your foot burned up the king of death! O red-hued One,

Whose form was seen as a column of fire!

You, who rested in the shade of the flower laden Kuruntham trees 

In holy Perunturrai’s happy home. 

O glorious Teacher! When Your servant longingly calls,

Please give Your grace and come to quell his fear!

8.

You are the Free, the First, the Triple-eyed, the Sage,-

You give the heavenly goal of moksha to those

Who devoutly ponder and praise You while

offering clusters of flowers in adoration; consummate One, 

You, who paused in the shade of the flower laden trees 

Surrounding wealthy Perunturrai. 

O Master, all glorious! When Your servant longingly calls,

Please give Your grace and come to quell his fear! 

9.

Seeing me distraught, You removed my confusion,

Destroying thought of this world and the next,

Uncreated Source, O Holy One, the lustrous snake

And cascading Ganga abide upon Your crest.

You, who rested in the shade of the flower laden Kuruntham trees

in holy Perunturrai,  home of lucid Vedic lore.

Glorious in mercy! When Your servant longingly calls,

Please give Your grace and come to quell his fear!

10.

In Thiruperunturrai, surrounded with perfect stately groves,

Beneath the Kuruntham tree’s flowery shade,

I think of all your glories, and pondering yearn,

And as my mighty Lord it’s You I oft invoke;

O Ascetic rare, when I, Your servant, struggling amid the billowy sea,

longingly calls for You,

Please give your grace and show the way to reach

Mount Kailash, and call me to Your side.

(Note for the botanically minded:

The Karuntham tree is Kuruntha Maram or Moovilai Kurunthu (called Ceylon orangeaster in English – Latin: Pleiospermium alatum of the Rutaceae family)

8.037 piditha pathu (40 lines)

Author: Manikkavasagar

Translation: G.U. Pope

1-4

O King of those above! – O ceaseless Plenitude

Of mystic bliss! – To me defiled Thou cam’st

Fruit newly ripe, and mad’st me Thine own dwelling-place.

Balm, yielding bliss all earthly bliss beyond!

True meaning’s Certitude! The Foot in glory bright!

My Wealth of bliss! O Civa-Peruman!

OUR VERY OWN – I’VE SEIZED THEE,- HOLD THEE FAST! HENCEFORTH,

AH, WHITHER GRACE IMPARTING WOULD’ST THOU RISE?

5-8

Ever the bull Thou holdest,- King of heaven’s glad host!

To me a man of sin Possession true!

Thy slave is foul decay that quits not, merest earth;

Within a very nest of worms I lie!

Thou mad’st me Thine, and safe hast kept, lest I should fail

At last; O God, O mighty Sea of grace!

FOR EVERMORE – I’VE SEIZED THEE,- HOLD THEE FAST! HENCEFORTH,

AH, WHITHER GRACE IMPARTING WOULD’ST THOU RISE?

9-12

O Mother! O my Sire! My Gem beyond compare!

Ambrosia, ever-precious yield of love!

I, vile one, dwell in short-lived house of worms,

Where false illusions ever growing press.

On me Thou hast bestow’d the true and perfect rest;

My Wealth of bliss! O Civa-Peruman!

UPON THIS EARTH- I’VE SEIZED THEE,- HOLD THEE FAST! HENCEFORTH,

AH, WHITHER GRACE IMPARTING WOULD’ST THOU RISE?

13-16

Splendour of grace! Well ripen’d luscious Fruit unique!

King of ascetics stern of all prevailing power!

Science of meanings deep! Delight transcending praise!

Of mystic sacred musings’ Fulness blest!

Thou enterest Thy servant’s thought, and all is clear!

My Wealth of bliss! O Civa-Peruman!

IN EACH DARK HOUR- I’VE SEIZED THEE,- HOLD THEE FAST! HENCEFORTH,

AH, WHITHER GRACE IMPARTING WOULD’ST THOU RISE?

17-20

Thou only One, to Whom can none compare! Thou Light

Shining within the very soul of me, Thy slave!

On me who knew not the true goal,- of merit void,

O Love unique,- Thou hast choice grace bestowed!

O radiant Form Whose splendour bright no tongue can tell!

My Wealth of bliss! O Civa-Peruman!

IN WEARINESS – I’VE SEIZED THEE,- HOLD THEE FAST! HENCEFORTH,

AH, WHITHER GRACE IMPARTING WOULD’ST THOU RISE?

21-24

O Pinnagan, our great Possession, Thou hast held

As sacred shrine my empty worthless mind;

Hast given me rapturous joy that knows no bound; hast cut

The root of ‘birth,’ and made me all Thine own!

O mystic Form, by me in open vision seen!

My Wealth of bliss! O Civa-Peruman!

IN HOUR OF DEATH – I’VE SEIZED THEE,- HOLD THEE FAST! HENCEFORTH,

AH, WHITHER GRACE IMPARTING WOULD’ST THOU RISE?

25-28

Thou Who didst teach the way to grasp that Ancient One,

Who cuts the root of every servile ‘bond’!

O Being,- Who didst show to me Thy flowery feet;

My worship didst accept; ent’ring my soul;-

Resplendent Lamp! Thou mystic Form of splendour bright!

My Wealth of bliss! O Civa-Peruman!

RULER SUPREME – I’VE SEIZED THEE,- HOLD THEE FAST! HENCEFORTH,

AH, WHITHER GRACE IMPARTING WOULD’ST THOU RISE?

29-32

O Father! Worlds on worlds Thy presence fills!

Thou Primal Deity! O wondrous One

Who knows no end! Thy saints devoutly cling to Thee!

My Wealth of bliss! O Civa-Peruman!

Wild Vagrant, living Germ in being’s every form,-

Diverse Thyself from every living thing!

ILLUSIONIST – I’VE SEIZED THEE,- HOLD THEE FAST! HENCEFORTH,

AH, WHITHER GRACE IMPARTING WOULD’ST THOU RISE?

33-36

The mother’s thoughtful care her infant feeds: Thou deign’st

With greater love to visit sinful me, –

Melting my flesh, flooding my soul with inward light,

Unfailing rapture’s honied sweetness Thou

Bestowest,- through my every part infusing joy!

My Wealth of bliss! – O Civa-Peruman!

CLOSE FOLLOWING THEE – I’VE SEIZED THEE,- HOLD THEE FAST! HENCEFORTH,

AH, WHITHER GRACE IMPARTING WOULD’ST THOU RISE?

37-40

O Ruler, spotless Gem, Who mad’st me Thine, thrilling

My frame through every pore; in friendly shape

Didst enter it,- as ’twere a vast and golden shrine,-

Making this body vile of sweetness full!

Affliction, birth and death, bewilderment,- all links

Of life,- Thou hast cut off, O beauteous Gleam!

MY SOUL’S DELIGHT – I’VE SEIZED THEE,- HOLD THEE FAST! HENCEFORTH,

AH, WHITHER GRACE IMPARTING WOULD’ST THOU RISE?

8.048 pandaayanan marai (28 line)

Author: Manikkavasagar

Translation: G.U. Pope

1-4

The ancient fourfold mystic word draws not anigh His seat;-

Nor Mal nor Ayan Him have seen; yet me, the most abject,

By grace He made His servant! To Gokari’s King, my heart,

Say, is there any just return?

5-8

Praise Perun-turrai! There the King, who on the charger came,

Abides, and gives a mighty flood of honied sweetness forth,

By which my soul’s threefold impurity is swept away;-

So roots of ‘birth’s’ wild forest die!

9-12

In wilds a Hunstsman; in sea He casts a net;

On land He rides the charger: thus our ‘deeds’ destroys.

The fair foot-flower of Perun-turrai’s Lord praise Thou,

My heart, that error thus may die!

13-16

Householders devout; saints who mighty ‘deeds’ destroy;-

Those whom ’tis meet the world should bow before, and praise;-

Immortals too in worship circling move, and laud! O friends,

In Perun-turrai blest adore!

17-20

To Perun-turrai drawing near; that woes disperse,

Ponder the King of lofty Gokari; and see

Him Who with Her whose words are music sweet abides

In Utt’ra-koca-mangai’s shrine!

21-24

The eyes that see Him there are all a rapture of delight;-

The saints that cherish Him are freed from mortal birth;-

The Mighty One, in Perun-turrai dwells for aye;-

My heart, give Him unstinted praise!

25-28

This is the purport sole of all men say; all speech

Surpassing, gem-like word, as flawless jewels’ sheen!

Utt’ring but ‘PERUN-TURRAI,’ I’m from ‘births’ released;

That healing foot fixt in my mind!

8.051 achchop pathikam (36 lines)

Author: Manikkavasagar

Translation: G.U. Pope

1-4

To me, who toiled and moiled ‘mid fools, that knew not WAY of final peace,

He taught the WAY of pious love;- and that ‘old deeds’ might cease and flee,

Purging the foulness of my will, made me pure bliss, took for His own;-

‘Twas thus the FATHER gave me grace: O RAPTURE! WHO SO BLEST AS I?

5-8

A WAY that was no rightful WAY I followed, deeming it the WAY,-

That I might seek no meaner WAY, but only seek HIS sacred grace

To gain, – He, Whom no signs describe, His mystic DANCE has given to know!

‘Twas thus the DANCER gave me grace: O RAPTURE! WHO SO BLEST AS I?

9-12

Me trusting every lie as truth, – plunged in desire of women’s charms,-

He guarded that I perished not with soul perturb’d,- the Lord Superne,

On whose left side the Lady dwells! He brought me nigh His jewell’d feet,-

‘Twas thus my GURU gave me grace: O RAPTURE! WHO SO BLEST AS I?

13-16

To me, – born in this clay, and doom’d, o’erworn, to perish, and to fall, –

Love inconceivable He gave;- made me His own;- caused me to wear

His own perfumed ashes white;- that I the way of purity

Should reach, the LOFTY gave me grce: O RAPTURE! WHO SO BLEST AS I?

17-20

Afflicted sore by glancing eyes of silly damsels, soft of foot,-

I stood, my mind by sorrow pierced; and then Thy grace I gain’d,- was sav’d,-

Ev’n I, O MASTER mine! Thou bad’st Thy servant come; ‘Fear not, ‘Thou said’st!

‘Twas thus that grace to me was given: O RAPTURE! WHO SO BLEST AS I?

21-24

Birth of this frame that burns and falls I took for true,- did many deeds;

In converse joy’d with maidens wreathed in flowers, with lustrous armlets deck’d.

My bonds He cut, made me His own, cleansed foulness so no trace was left!

‘Twas thus the LAST-ONE gave me grace: O RAPTURE! WHO SO BLEST AS I?

25-28

Prostrate it was my fate to fall in ‘wilderment of fair ones’ charms.

In gentle love He led me forth, loosing the prison bars of ‘bond’;

Showed me the way to ‘scape; and taught the meaning of the mystic OM

‘Twas thus the GURU gave me grace: O RAPTURE! WHO SO BLEST AS I?

29-32

My troubled soul was whirled around in circling tide of death and birth;

I fell, enamoured with the charms of those with jewels rare adorned;

The Lord, whose Form the Lady shares, in mercy drew me to His feet.

‘Twas thus the FIRST-ONE gave me grace: O RAPTURE! WHO SO BLEST AS I?

33-36

With those that knew not right or good,- men ignorant,- I wandered too.

The First, the Primal Lord Himself threefold pollution caus’d to cease;

Even me He took as something worth,- like dog in sumptuous litter borne!

‘Twas thus the MOTHER gave me grace: O RAPTURE! WHO SO BLEST AS I?

Thirumalikait Thevar

9.001 Koyil (Chidambaram) (11 verses)

Author: Thirumalikait Thevar

Translation: Singaravelu Sachithanantham (2010), verses one and two, and S. A. Sankaranarayanan (2007), balance

1

Oh Lord, you are the lamp that continuously shines on and on! You are the eternal and peerless ONE AND ONLY God! You are the supreme knowledge, which transcends every other boundary of knowledge, and you are known by the supreme Auspicious Wisdom [Shiva-jňanam]! You are the crystal-like- mountain-of-ruby sparkling continuously! You are the honey that tastes so sweet in thought! You are the fruit that gives rise to supreme bliss in mind! Please grant me grace so that I as your slave may describe and praise you as the ONE, who executes the cosmic dance without beginning or end in the tiny innermost chamber of everyone’s heart as the stage of your cosmic dance!”

2

Oh God! You are the brightness within the brightness of sacred and good ruby. You conferred grace on me and destroyed the suffering of my existence in this world by uprooting the darkness of my ignorance. You are riding the strong bull as your vehicle. You are the cosmic dancer in the golden arena of the universe. Please grant me the grace of adoring you as ONE standing erect as the great mountain disseminating so much effulgence that Lord Brahma and Lord Vishņu did not know you because of their ignorance!”

3 Oh God! You are the brightness within the brightness of sacred and good ruby. You conferred grace on me and destroyed the suffering of my existence in this world by uprooting the darkness of my ignorance. You are riding the strong bull as your vehicle. You are the cosmic dancer in the golden arena of the universe. Please grant me the grace of adoring you as ONE standing erect as the great mountain disseminating so much effulgence that Lord Brahma and Lord Vishņu did not know you because of their ignorance!”

4

Great and small, Female and Vishnue you are; Light immense severing birth and death; Vast is your Dark. Fish-eyed Himavant’s girl Uma clings to you. O, Father hailed aloud By supernal Vedas four! Ambrosia in Ambalam! As one in and through every ens You are outstanding immanence. May you will it so That I, your servient one, psalm you in verse variform.

5

Assumer of forms! King of super celestials! Attributive sign sans attributes and signs! Time-Tamer! Ganga’s Capital! Killer of Killer Timer of Time! Burner of Mind-churner! Dancer deft entempled in carat-Auric Hall Having eaten up the fell-venom meal! Logomorph! For this loner to love askesis, May you ordain me your servient one come near you.

6

Coral-ore-hill wearing holy ash! Flaming, Metopic-eyed pillar-fire standing! Lord of cismundane joy in variform vast! Bliss-flooding Deluge! Archer of Meru, virile! Amazing dancer with river decked locks! King of lovely auric-spatium! My Ruler With Taurus-standard! May you will it so That I your servient one assent to you in amor.

7

Goodly friend of Kubera! Auspicius Doer! Tridentist! Maker Firm! Civa, Core-gold-column good! Tendril of kalpaka Sugarcane triple-eyed! Sire of Muruka And Vinayaka! Protector of Devas in spatium! May you will it so that I your servient one Savour your feet-pair, with relish in my heart With the sense to sense them in cordial sweet.

8

Deluded to rely on deities figuring fast In turn of birth, I mistook them supreme. But you, nonpareil gem, have my delusion slain; You have made me subservient to your Holy carat-gold feet of splendour. O! Owner Of spatium, preceptor beneath the ficus. You have Found out the culprit lies of alien Buddham Cum samanam. May you will me so to yoke with you to consummate.

9

O! Destroyer that makes everyone weep! The queller of four-faced Brahma’s Head number five. Chopper of the chief Of Takkan’s sacrifice, knocker of Takkan’s Head, rolling all by jamming brows in a fit of fury. Dancer ruddy in auric spatium clad in chank And gem-laid Tiger Hyde! Dear for all to follow, May you will me your servient one to close in on your grace.

10

Generous one of Grace powering fair Maal To split open the breast-bone of Hiranyakasipu In human-lion form with claws! O, valorous Taurus-rider astraddle on veda-steeds-drawn-car. Asher of citadels triple in cinerary flames! Dumper of demons in the dungeon of Dark! King of auric spatium thick, crushing proud Ravan neneath Kayilai! Fair one venom-throated. Will me so your servient one to dote on you

11

Vedas, Devas acrowding with fair Maal and Brahma Are inebriate. In repeated pleading, they tried To grasp you. While such are they, I, your trivial, Vassal have versed in words vain that not see Your sounding Kazhal-feet. May you brook My vacuous hollowness. O, abode of Mercy Granting full in spatium! May you will it so I your servient one deliberate on your will!

Sentanar

9.005 The Lord of Thiruveezhimizhalai (12 verses)

Translation: S. A. Sankaranarayanan,(2000)

1

Sole Lord for all worlds, king of winkless Devas Ambrosia quickening me, nonpareil bliss bestower Are all He, the Discus Donor to the nimbus dark Maal fair whom He Littered down in gold Once upon an aeon. Like a mercy cloud Seeking recompense none is He the Helper, the Granter Of Release at Tiruveezhimizhalai towering temple Landed firm in descent from skies, the Ens Greatest I do know.

2

The ripe Klapaka fruit relished by the wise, The shoreless ocean of infinite mercy, The ruby-hill unbeknown to aliens, The fair-lamp that illumines the pious hearts, The queller of foes’ citadels, our Civa The victor enthroned in Tiruveezhimizhalai Are but He. Him gazing, oft, my heart And eyes have felt the embracing coolth.

3

Undazed by sun’s mandala I contemplate its core; Therein is my ambrosia my matchless Ruby of yore Dear to view by Brahma-upon-lotus and Maal fair Yet Mount Coral immense visible to devotees. Him the Great preceptor with nimbus-dark neck Holding the holy civitas, – of Tiruveezhimizhalai Girt in groves engulfed by floral honey unheld in, – If we seek, deeds of woe won’t campaign on us.

4

Wearing a crescent on His crest taking me by force to grace Me, even me ‘neath the shade off His Holy feet, He welling up As exclusive flame in ascension willingly in concomitant Circum-zones of Anahata Visuddhi and Aagna wheeling Triple lotuses, swelling in neap as of the rising main Is endowed with grace-lumen blest am I to bide and serve At the secure sacred auric feet of crystal white Lord In Tiruveezhimizhalai, never would I let the feet part from my heart.

5

He graced me so that I never betook To pseudo deities of fading sorcery That never sever birth. He is the hoary Chintamani gracing Andhanars versed In Vedas four to take to the true deific path. He is the Tiruveezhimizhalaiyer enshrined In the shipshape temple come from the skies. Can ever the Gnostics forget that Civa and mind else in vain?

6

Mired in the mirth of fivefold senses Bent on the dreamy wealth of mundi I’d been. O, pure One with Parvati-in-half Me, you have saved lest a life such wastes me. My Lord of Holy Veezhimizhalai Far famed in all eight airts is. In the light of His feet, I wear the auric-lotus-dust Of His Servitors, and have taken to serving them.

7

How can I henceforth forget the dear-to-get Ambrosia and grieve? For He is my Lord With Parvati-in-half is Lumen grand in form. He is sui generis. He is qualified perfect As graceful opulence at holy Veezhimizhalai With many tiered gorgeous mansions moon-kissed With fertiles fecund fields on Ganga-watered-Arisil On either bank lush with fragrant floral groves.

8

Sheer Lumen, triple eyed meet with a milliard of suns; Lovely Face, arms and feet meet with myriad Lotuses; Ever exuding Light from matted locks fair Holding in the gushing ganga, are all He Ensconcing the crescent cool; He is the spouse of Parvati With bamboo-lithe shoulders; He has deigned to grace In fair Veezhimizhalai, where in off-temple groves Indra and all propitiate the pious praising the Lord.

9

He is the Lord gracing Veezhimizhalai fair Countless are His attributes benign, hailed by five Hundreds of andhanars. He beyond all limits, With deeds infinite, with measureless ruddy feet, With multitudinous matted locks, with shoulders hefty, In limitless expanse and holy mien in endless stretch Myriad are His names and triple-eyed faces. So graceful is He to take us in claim as servitors.

10

Takkan proud, torrid-rayed sun Demon Jalandaran, Brahman and Chandran The chief of Takkan’s yagna, the hard-hearted Ravana, The citadels triple and the tusker driven must By sylvan-taruka sages, and the excesses Of Garuda, Yama and Manmatha He quelled Famed in eight airts He’s Lord Veezhimizhalai. Vassus vassorum, I wear the auric dust of their lotus feet.

11

Spreads He the Gnostic lumen graining my heart; He, the spouse of Parvati rains mercy on beings; Wearing fertile Ganga He protects the crescent; Aboard the young Taurus, He, the strident One Is entempled in Tiruveezhimizhalai. Him, Muruka’s father, were I to hail as Rex In full throated ease, won’t He, the auric Kalpaka The sole grasp unfailing, turn up by me?

12

He, the granter of coins gold to Hymns troped fair, He, the abider ever in moving Tevara-Moovar’s hearts, He, the One adorned in choice Tamil Canzones theirs, Guised as Hunter, graced Arjun Ambrosically. Ruler of fair Veezhimizhalai, Fadeless famed Kalpaka gold. Do I deserve to reach Him ever? Yet deeming me not on counts unworthy, He On His own compassion has graced me His slave.

Karuvurt Thevar

9.012 thirailoakkiya su:ntharam (11 verses)

Translation: S. A. Sankaranarayanan (2007)

1

Mirthfully with a beaming face, My restraints giving in, despite open cavil, Unabashed I yielded myself to you Lord, Abiding in Trilokya Sundaram of Kotai city. But, still, I am far from receiving your Caritas; And wither like a lotus stalk Without waters, sapless and dry, I, a woman-in-woe, wear away.

2

O! Lord abider in Trilokyasundaram Of Kotai city, with what indifference You melt my heart for your glee! From that day on, when you passed Through our street in your pageantry, i’ve been worshipping you With folded hands, full till now, Gushing tears. Won’t you grant me grace?

3

“Fresh ripe fruit! Ambrosia mine! Light supernal! Three-eyed red-hued crystal Mystery, With native transparency and cut angles Showing all around its faces, as When sun, rays through in refraction, So does Her love ripe in heart on facing Your face, express express urge. Do grant Her Grace.” – Thus the matron appeals.

4

With Groomed Dark locks rich, our Lady Has given Her heart dearer than her life To Trilokyasundaram, who for her to see Is Kovanam-clad; and He refuses to give her Back her bangles He stole from her; Who has ever sported with her. Is He reluctant Perhaps to try those that are truly in love Ever at His service? – Thus the matron loathes.

5

O, Mahadeva praised by schools of Devas! Abider in fair grove grown Kotai Trilokyasundaram Though you come not at her wish, As she dotes on your presence, Her nenuphar eyes shed pearly-tears As if loosened from off a string. Won’t you pity Her and grace Heeding her passion? – Thus the matron pleads.

6

Girt by forts with alcoves is Kotai Trilokyasundaram. Though you are All, Her frail frame has felt not the bliss Of your bounteous presence. With locks profuse My daughter feels her contours faulty Not fit for upkeep; without eat, wash, tidy dress, She utters oft your names, thinks your acts, sheds tears Of joy as an aspirant – Thus the matron is proud.

7

Lord of Sennel fields of Kotai Trilokyasundaram! A pale hue dims her waxing fair, showing Her grief. Agonied, she craves calling you To survey your luminous charm. But you show up not. Can’t you lessen her grief abating it By your grace and alleviate her Sore eyes properly for they had never Slept for days. – Thus the matron pleads.

8

Kotai Trilokyasundaram is fort girt, With cool moat, Patiri mango groves abloom, And rich arborets. This girl, too dear to get, You have failed to grace. The sickle-shape And the locks of flame lashing, And your fingers plucking the yaazh to strum Have cut, singed and killed the girl’s life, Her frail flesh. Does it become you? – Doubts the matron.

9

O, owner Lord of love-groved Kotai Trilokyasundaram! The servitor’s hearts by quenchless love-lorn Is your abode. In the midst of love-surrounding Exceedingly you are or fare free otherwise. Knowing you, she better deserving than others, Is keen on having you solely for her sake; She could not get-over love-dizziness. Grace Her please Superlatively apt. – Thus the matron commends.

10

My Lord, festive sounds, gay steppings of maidens’ Walk, Maddalam and all musicals, clear Rich percussion haunt the Kotai where you abide, Trilokaysundaram! This young maid, her veil Slipping, her waist in wobble, her locks loosened, Is love-lorn after you. Won’t you take note of her Soon with your eyes of compassion and shower Your Caritas on her? – The matron implores.

11

Owner of lush groves in Kotai Trilokyasundaram! Having sipped the honey-manna of Vedas, With sweet Tamil garlands exuding fragrance, I, Karuvoortevar, am firmy poised in Civa. Hence, the ten hymns, they that by rote read And recite in the raagaa of Gaandhaar, Would doubtless turn gifted sure To become consummated in spirit with Civam.

Sentanar

9.029 Thirup Pallaandu (13 verses)

Source: htttp://www.thevaaram.org/en/thirumurai_1/songview.php?Thiru=9&Song_idfield=9029&padhi=029+&button=Please+go

Translation: S. A. Sankaranarayanan (2007)

1

May our Tillai ever be. May servitor`s tribe increase,

Dismissing treasonous dissenters.

Entering the well-wrought Auric Hall,

For worlds to flourish, He, the spouse

Of young Uma of swan-gait, conferring on

Us the seekers of His feet, gnosis great

To snap the onward birth-chain. Blest we hail

That zealot to abide for Eternal Eons

2

May such hard of heart who melt not depart.

May servitors faithful hasten to gather.

With His Grace-given flesh, weal and soul

May clans all serve Him; throng to hail,

In His mystic spatium, Him past worlds,

As Ens of bateless bliss in spate,

As Primordial, Perennial, Present, Compresent,

As Timeless to abide for Eternal Eons.

3

Of His nonpareil Acts that took me,

That changed my fickle flesh sans faith,

Into swerveless contemplation

Of Civa`s sublime play exalting His servitors,

May we think and greet the Lord of forms eight,

Our Ambrosia welling melting our hearts,

Our preceptor `neath the Kallaal shade; I His vavasour,

Pray Him to abide for Eternal Eons

4

O, Pure hearted vassals, Beyond deep exploring

The vedic canon of verities, poised are you firm.

Never wavering in meaner ways, seeking

Lesser devas that never last as supreme,

May we greet hence, Him fair, who arched the auric Meru,

Whose Taurus is His mount, Who is One Civa

Who is Time-Transcending; in benedicite. May we

Hail Him to abide Eternal Eons.

5

Indra, fair Maal and Brahma haughty

In prior pride fussed much;

Could`nt reach Him but in wait are imploring.

But we are taken by His beneficence.

How can we recompense this unseen Kalpaka-tree

Gracing all we want as shoreless sea of mercy.

Grace boundless are His feet. May we

Greet Him to abide for Eternal Eons.

6

Brahma, Indra and ruddy-eyed fair Maal

From bournes varied with offerings sacred

Came thronging to worship the Lord, who is

Ambrosia to my being, opulence to my craving.

He, the Dancer Holy, reachless to the thought of Devas

Circumscribed by limiter-births. Stands He

Transcending all their searches even. Blessed May we

Hail Him to abide for Eternal Eons.

7

In way proper to Civa-via and Grace steadfast

I, His vassal, have secured the Gnosis:

He my Lord is the sole Taker of Beings all

None else have attained this. At the ruddy feet

Of the Lord of Civaloka, what I had none had had.

I sing amuck His praise for the city and the world to sing

The weal of Uma`s spouse for skies and worlds to know.

May we Hail Him to abide for Eternal Eons.

8

“The Holy Ash on the Holy chest of Our Lord

Is much meet with the red Kum-Kum smear

On the bosoms of young girls with carp or trout like eyes,“

Thus the servitors praise. He has shown me the way

Unchartable by fair Maal and Brahma

In my heart as springs of milk and ambrosia

He welled fusing me with Vita Nuova. May we

Hail that Ever-during to abide Eternal Eons.

9

When Upamanyu, son of sage Vyagrapada

Cried for milk getting it not, Lord pooled

The lactic sea and once upon a time

He endowed the fair Maal with divine Discus;

Holding Mystic Tillai spatium ever

As His prime Dais for Andanars to gaze

He dances the Dance gracing us. Blessed May we

Hail our Lord to abide Eternal Eons.

10

For Chandesa who felled his father`s legs with an axe

Lord accorded a shrine enshrined

For celestials and terrestrials to worship him;

Besides He gave him the offering, the fair wreath

Worn on crest and named Him Chandan

The president of all servitors. And thus

He credited his treacherous deed. May we

Hail Him our Lord to abide Eternal Eons.

11

Tunes from bamboo flute and yaazh,

Beats of dancing hymnodic strain,

All augment concerting in festivities

Soaring to cerulean in fair Aaroor

Where a lineage of familists slave

For ever-young-Taurus-rider Lord. In their clans

Married intra, servitors succeed of yore and now.

With them Hail Him to abide Eternal Eons.

12

In graceful Aadirai day, of the Devas to darshan

Him our Lord were fair Maal, Four-faced, Agni, Sol

And Indra and all. On the car-street

Poured in from four airts Deva-clans riding cars.

May we sing the hoary praise of Lord Civa

Omnipresent on this Pritvi and perform Dance

In accord. May we hail the Lord of Aadirai,

The Betel-Geuse, to abide for Eternal Eons.

13

Ambrosial sweet Civa-Lord is for sure

Our father, mother and kin. Thus do

Servitors contemplate. Baser cur-like

Low-down Senthan worships His fair feet;

Invokes Him Honey-like-Rex bestowing

Bliss imperishable. Fain has He come, taken, graced

To snap the bonds of Beings. In Benediction, we hail

Senthan-sung Lord to abide Eternal Eons.

Tirumular

10.001 Sivaparaththuvam (56 verses)

Author: Tirumular

Translator: B. Natarajan (2000)

Source: http://www.thevaaram.org/en/thirumurai_1/songview.php?Thiru=10&Song_idfield=10101&padhi=%20&startlimit=1&limitperpage=1&sortby=&sortorder=DESC

1

Search where you will, there’s no God like Siva,

None here below to equal Him in glory;

Lotus-like, He, of gleaming matted locks,

Fiery in splendor, beyond the worlds, apart.

2

Without Him, there be Celestials none,

Without Him, penance is not,

Without Him, naught the Three accomplish,

Without Him, I know not how to enter the City’s Gate.

3

Primal First is He, older than the Co-eval Three

But the Lord is He peerless, unequalled;

Call Him “Father, ” and Father He to thee

Inside you He flames in the Lotus of Golden Hue.

4

Hotter is He than fire, cooler than water;

And yet none knows of His Grace abounding;

Far away, yet very close to the good,

Kinder than the mother is He, of the flowing matted locks.

5

Gold-bewrought, His matted locks fall back and gleam

Nandi, His name,

My Lord is He, ever by me worshiped;

But none there be whom He worships.

6

Near and far I look; but around the Being First,

No other God, I see, mightier than He;

Himself the effort, and Himself, too, effort’s end;

Himself the rains, Himself the clouds rain-laden,

The Nandi- named.

7

Humans and celestials go after gods who pass away

They do not realize that He of the fore-head eye is the Supreme,

One-pointed in His concern for His devotees.

8

Mal who spanned the earth and Brahma the Louts-seated one,

And others of the gods fathomed Him not;

There be none to measure Him that measured the Heavens

Transcending He stands, bestowing everything with a glance.

9

Ayan and Mal, His Head and Foot toiling sought,

Baffled in their quest, again on earth they met;

“I saw not the Foot,” Achutha plained

“The Head I saw,” Ayan falsely claimed.

10

Transcended He Brahma on the lotus-seat,

Transcended Mayan, the ocean-hued,

Transcended He, Isan, who transcends all,

Transcended He space infinite, witnessing all.

11

He is Brahma, He is Hara and is seated in every heart,

He blossoms as Divine Effulgence which knows no contraction

And he is the Order Eternal.

12

Him of the matted locks fragrant with Konrai flowers,

Him who is with the Divine Mother,

Him the Devas and the celestials,

Adore for anything they require.

13

The body and soul may intermingle,

But the soul’s effulgence predominates,

God infils the whole universe,

But His love for us stands supreme.

14

Seeing the devout penance of the King of Alagai,

The Supreme Lord made him the lord,

Bestowed on him riches galore, and

Commanded him to abide there and reign.

15

All the fragrant seven worlds are His,

But He chooses to remain in the cremation ground,

If we do sincere penance,

He is sure to abide in our hearts.

16

If we pursue the path that leads to the Abode,

Of Him who of yore created birth and death,

We shall find Him in the holy hill of Kailas

Resonant with thunders and fragrant with flowers.

17

This Lord of Maya-world that has its rise in the mind,

He, knows, yet all our thoughts but we do not think of Him;

Some be who groan, “God is not favorable to me;”

But, sure, God seeks those who seek their souls to save.

18

The God of Fire, was set amidst the seas by The Mighty Lord

Do not say He is not

He, the Lord of the Heavenly Beings all,

Who, day and night, pours forth His Divine Grace.

19

Sing His praise, sing of His Holy Feet!

Pour all your treasures at Siva’s Sacred Feet!

And they who shake off the clouded eye and disturbed mind.

With them He ever stood, benignantly firm.

20

Oh! Who else is kin to me but You?

Come to me that I may see you

Let me not feel shy to embrace Your feet!

For to the heart of Your servant, pure and true

You ever stood even as the axle-pin.

21

Birthless is He, of plated locks, and of compassion vast,

Deathless is He, who never deserts those who come to Him,

Granter of Joys entire

To Him kneel, and, kneeling, shall find

Naught becomes Maya, the bond immemorial.

22

Adore the Lord, who in unbroken continuity stood,

The Lord who protecting over all earth expanded,

Transcending all He stood; on the lotus of the heart,

In smiling glory He sat; Holy be His feet!

23

The Infinite of Louts-Face, rivalling the rose of sunset,

May ours be His Grace Divine!

And they who thus Nandi daily beseech,

Into their Heart He walks in and abides.

24

Beckoning He stood, He, the All-pervading;

Invisible to most but

To those who freely give themselves to the Lord on High,

To them is He the certain, immutable Guide.

25

Sing His praise and become one with Him,

The Lord, who is the source of all compassion,

Who rescues Vishnu, Brahma and the celestials from birth,

And who killed the trumpeting wild elephant.

26

As the Heavens draw the rains;

Even so will my Lord draw me to Him?

Thus, doubting, many ask.

But like a calf lowing for its mother

I cry for Nandi for the sake of knowledge.

27

The Earth is He, the sky is He! Well He be!

The Heaven is He, truest gold is He! Well He be!

Sweetest song’s inmost rapture is He!

Him my love besought, from heart’s central core.

28

The Lord of Gods, and of ours too,

The Lord who all space pervades,

And the seven Worlds, ocean-bound, transcends;

None do know His nature true,

May we sing His Grace Divine!

29

Many the gods this hoary world adores,

Many the rituals; many the songs they sing;

But knowing not the One Truth, of Wisdom bereft Unillumined, they can but droop at heart.

30

Like the fragrance of the musk the musk-deer constant emits,

Is the True Path which the Lord to Celestials imparts.

Sitting or moving, I chant the rich essence of His Name,

His thousand Names that are like spark divine.

31

If we tread the path of goodness shown by Him,

And sing His praise and adore Him,

He, the Lord of all ten directions,

Will protect and impel us in the right direction.

32

Heavenly Father, Nandi, the unsurfeiting nectar sweet,

Bounteous One, Unequalled, First of Time!

Praise Him ever; and even as you praise,

So thine reward will also be.

33

Daily I kneel and chant Nandi’s holy Name;

Envisioned, He stands, the Fire-hued One,

Flaming like the moon in sky; into me He comes,

And throbs and breathes through my mortal flesh.

34

I will not cease to speak of Him, the Great, the Rare,

I will not cease to prate of Him, the Form Unborn,

I will not cease to talk of Nandi, the Mighty,

I will never cease, for pure and great am I then!

35

He, the Divine Light, shining bright in devotee’s heart

He, the pure One, sporting therein

Him shall we praise, Him call, “Our Lord”,

And, thus adoring, His Grace attain.

36

Humbled and meek, seek thou the Feet of the Lord,

Who equals the rays of purest gold serene;

Praise Him with songs of the humble heart

And unpenurious tongue;

Into such He enters, the all-fashioning Lord.

37

To them He comes, who, in heart’s deep confines Treasure His Name,

The Lord who consumed the deadly poison of hatred born,

He the Consort of Her of the gleaming brow,

He comes like a deer to its fold.

38

To Those who seek Him, the Lord’s grace flows unimpeded

Even if one is able to orbit the world,

He cannot achieve anything without the grace of

The Lord, the consort of the Mother of shoulders reed- shaped.

39

To them that speak of Hara’s Holy Feet and weep,

To them that daily muse at the Great One’s mighty feet

To them that, in deep devotion fixed, wait to serve,

To them comes the Eternal’s all-filling Grace.

40

“Glory to the Holy Feet,” the Devas chant,

“Glory to the Holy Feet,” the Asuras hymn,

“Glory to the Holy Feet,” the humans, too echo,

Thus I gloried Him, and in my love He shone.

41

Except according to the Law, this sea-girt world survives not,

Except according to the Law, happiness does not follow,

Nothing can work against the Law,

If we adore Him, the light effulgent

He will guide us on the Path to liberation like the sun.

42

“You of the Twilight Hue! O! Hara! O! Siva!

“Thus, His Holy Feet devotees praise and sing;

He of the primary Hue, the First, the Infinite

Entered my being, my heart’s centre held.

43

They who enshrine Him in themselves equal great sages,

Contemplating Him in their hearts, they will love and adore Him,

Those who do not think Him do not get happiness,

Even as the kite sitting on a palm tree does not enjoy the palm fruit.

44

The Lord of gods, whom the pious adore,

To Him I bend my knees and His Grace invoke,

The Lord, Our Father, blessing us of earth,

The Lamp that flickers not, Him I seek.

45

They who adore the Lord of soul and its limitation,

And released from the bondage,

Are able to cross the ocean of samsara

And reach the other shore of it.

46

I’ll adore Him i’ll keep Him in my heart;

I’ll sing His Name and dance with gift of flowers,

Singing and dancing seek the Lord;

This alone I know, only too well I know.

47

However much I may think for ages and ages

Of Him whose youth is eternal,

He who has no beginning or end, I cannot succeed

He too remains everywhere, however much Brahma and Vishnu

May describe His glory.

48

He, the Being First, and He, the Emerald-hued,

And he of the glowing, original Lotus-seat—

Though the three form an integral whole

The world considers them separate and quarrel.

49

Beyond the Two Karmas is Isa seated,

The seed of this world, the mighty God become;

“This” and “That” is Isa—so the thoughtless contend,

The dross but know the basest sediment low.

50

Siva the First, then the Three, and the following,

With whom flourished Bindu and Nada,

Nine are they all, yet one and the same—

All these but names of Sankara First.

51

But if we thus the soul of truth probe and bare,

Aya or Mal to us no alien Beings are!

But Indissolubly kin to Nandi, the Three Eyed!

Blessed be ye all by the Heavenly Three!

52

Lying prostrate I adored the Milk-hued One,

While countless Devas stood around in melting prayers lost;

Then spoke the Lord to me:

“To Vishnu and Brahma am I equal;

Be it Yours to give the world

The Grace of My Feet.”

53

It is only by the grace of Siva decked with konrai flowers,

That the celestials and the humans who are in essence the same exist.

There is no God except He,

Our only duty is to enshrine Him in our heart.

54

The ignorant know not from the First did leap

The Light that flamed into Three and Five;

So blindly groping, lost in maze of words,

Isa, Mal and Aya, to graded ranks assign.

55

The Supreme is One, Absolute without lapse,

In descent thereof, Mal and Aya becoming;

Thus He, the One into many ranked;

By conscious choice a Self-deduction made.

56

In one Part, He, Sadasiva my Lord;

One heavenly Part in Heaven resides;

One Kingly Part, the spirit that the body heaves;

One His Part to all motion transformed.

10.003 aakamas si’rappu (10 verses)

Author: Tirumular

Translator: B. Natarajan (2000)

Source:

http://www.thevaaram.org/en/thirumurai_1/songview.php?thiru=10&Song_idField=10103&padhi=+&button=Please+go

1.

The Lord that consorts with his blue-hued half

Has the Agamas twenty-five and three;

Bowing low, the six and sixty heard

His Fifth-Face the Agamas expound.

2.

The Sivagamas the Lord by Grace revealed;

In number a billion-million-twenty-eight

In them the Celestials the Lord`s greatness gloried;

Him, I too shall muse and praise.

3.

The Agamas sublime, the Lord by Grace revealed,

Deep and baffling even to the gods in Heaven;

Seventy billion-millions though they be;

Like writing on the waters, eluding grasp.

4.

The Infinite Siva revealing the Infinite Vast,

Came down to earth, His Dharma to proclaim,

The immortals, then, Him as Nandi adored,

And He stood forth as the Agamas entire.

5.

From Siva the Infinite to Sakti and Sadasiva,

To Maheswara the Joyous, to Rudra Deva to

Holy Vishnu and to Brahmisa

So in succession unto Himself from Himself,

The nine Agamas our Nandi begot.

6.

The Agamas so received are Karanam, Kamigam,

The Veeram good, the Sindam high and Vadulam,

Vyamalam the other, and Kalottaram,

The Subram pure and Makutam to crown.

7.

Numberless the Sivagamas composed,

The Lord by His Grace revealed;

Yet if they know not the wisdom He taught;

Like writing on water, the unnumbered fade.

8.

When rain and summer and long drawn dews stay occuring,

And when they sustain the lakes,

Then did He in Sanskrit and Tamil at once,

Reveal the rich treasure of His compassion to our Mother Great.

9.

Life takes its birth, stands preserved awhile,

And then its departure takes; caught

In that momentary wave of flux, Him we glimpse,

The Lord who in Tamil sweet and northern tongue

Life`s mystery revealed.

10.

In eighteen various tongues they speak

The thoughts which Pandits alone know;

The Pandits` tongues numbering ten and eight

Are but what the Primal Lord declared.

10.008 kaara’na pagnsaakkaram (3 verses)

Author: Tirumular

Translator: B. Natarajan (2000)

Source: http://www.thevaaram.org/en/thirumurai_1/songview.php?thiru=10&Song_idField=10908&padhi=%20&startLimit=3&limitPerPage=1&sortBy=&sortOrder=DESC

1

They who chant not “Siva Siva,”

Are from ignorance freed not

Verily are they beings dumb;

Do say “Siva Siva”

Unintermittent and spontaneous,

In the depths of your heart;

They who thus chant

Are in Siva Jnana Pure;

Theirs shall be the Grace Divine.

2

They chant not “Siva Siva”,

Verily are they of evil Karma;

Chant `”Siva Siva”

Your evil karmas perish; Deva you become;

Yours shall be the Siva-State too.

3

Penetrating the fiery Sphere of Sun

And passing beyond into the sphere of cloud-laden Meru

By the Adhara Way,

He (the yogi) there in Samadhi slumbers;

And then articulating the Holy Word

He sees the Lord

And is forever absorbed in His thought.

10.019 a’ragnseyvaan thi’ram (9 verses)

Author: Tirumular

Translator: B. Natarajan (2000)

Source:

http://www.thevaaram.org/en/thirumurai_1/songview.php?thiru=10&Song_idField=10119&padhi=+&button=Please+go

1

Who the self realise,

seek and adore the Feet of the Iord;

Who the self realise,

most freely give in charity;

Who the self realise,

Lord of Tattvas become;

Who the self realise,

kin they become to the Lord in dear amity.

2

Easy for all to offer in worship a green leaf to the Lord,

Easy for all to give a mouthful to the cow,

Easy for all to give a handful of food to others before sitting down to eat,

Easy for all, good, kind words on others to bestow.

3.

The food that feeds the needy—that alone true charity is;

True men they who that simple truth do find;

But they who hoard,

like water in pool past access,

To eat and gorge–to Charity`s ways are they blind.

4

Driving away ignorance,

if with Wisdom you fill not your mind In days of plenty,

you will not give in charity.

What avails it,

though wide awake,

if hell-fire spreads around,

What avails it,

then,

if impoverished of heart you are?

5

Of yourself knowing little,

caring naught for your good,

Unmindful e`en of poverty of tender youth taking no care,

Before Death`s stern,

relentless summons arrives,

Let noble charities your redeeming goodness declare.

6

To him who renounces,

no kith or kin has he;

To him who is dead no delights has he;

To him who charityless is,

the Lord denies His Presence;

By the measure of thy charity done,

the Lord is known to thee.

7

Some in charity overflow;

by such noble deeds done,

Noble gods they become in human being`s high esteem;

And the many who hold this fleshly body their dear God,

To them comes Death,

saying;

“I am your God supreme.”

8

Our life`s boat across the foaming sea of Karma flies;

Twin the pathways to dispel the labourious strain;

Glory giving tapas and charity the heavenly escorts,

To us and our dear kin from life`s battle vain.

9

Earthly desires to worldly objects attached,

No end know;

but in charity`s noble way,

E`en the little things you give,

sure props provide;

All the rest meekly take as the Lord`s gift for the day.

Karaikal Ammaiyar

11.002 Moota Tiruppatikam (11 verses)

Author: Karaikal Ammaiyar

Translator: Sheela Venkatakrishnan of Chennai

Sung: https://www.youtube.com/watch?V=SQ4_43f2wmo

1

With shriveled breasts, nerves-a-bulging

Sunken eyes, hollowed belly

White teeth jutting out from reddened gums

A she-ghoul stands, ankles raised

Her screams ring through the withered forest

Where with matted hair, flying in directions eight

Dances our Father, to cool His body

Here in Tiruvaalangkaadu

2

Stretching her leg into a thorny cactus

She pulls a burning log from the blazing pyre

To grind to kohl, which to her eyes she applies

Startled by the sting, while beholding beasts of prey

She jumps close to the fire ablaze

Hurt by burning skin, she puts the fire, heaping dirt

On such a cremation ground as this

Dances our Father

Here in Tiruvaalangkaadu

3

Rattling of the ripe’ vaakai’ nuts is heard

In the dense dark, dead of night

The barn owl and ‘aantalai’ begin to call

Even as, from a branch above, a horned owl flaps his wings

‘Indai’ creepers entwine cactus

Along the pyres arranged

In the heat of such a crematory, dances our Father

Here in Tiruvaalangkaadu

4

A fox eats the rice offering

From the sunken homa pit

“Alas! Why did we not see that food?,”

Scream the ghouls, clapping their hands

And run around the grounds,

To the sound of their ululation

His Leg raised to the Heavens, dances our Father

Here in Tiruvaalangkaadu

5

Swallowing oily fat

The she-ghoul adorned with white skulls

Called her child Kali

Clothed and reared her

Wiping her clear of the dirt, the mother left

Yearning for the absent mother,

The child cried herself to sleep

In such a forest, He dances

Here in Tiruvaalangkaadu

6

Dark ghosts, eagles, ghouls

Kestrels, owls and patridges

Lay their eggs and birth their young

There the fox turns over the corpses

Abandoned by the ‘chandalan’

In such a burning ground,

Clad in directions eight, He dances

Here in Tiruvaalangkaadu

7

Spouting fire from mouth and bulging eyes

In the engulfing darkness, the ghouls sprint and dance

Pull the burning corpses from the flaming fires

And eat the flesh falling off the bones

Clanking of the anklets caused by His raised feet

Dancing the spiraling spin

Increasing the pace as fire feeds fire, He dances

Here in Tiruvaalangkaadu

8

Over land and vale he wandered

Seeking the right way to live

Now, shrouded he lies

Surrounded by those long before him

Woods and oceans, mountains and plains

And the heavens do spin and whirl

As adorned by snakes, holding flames in hand, He dances

Here in Tiruvaalangkaadu

9

Percussion instruments manifold do sound

Drums of hide and clay

Varied shapes, multi-faced

Stringed and wired

These and others creating music divine

He bursts into song in perfect accord

With such an orchestra harmonious, He dances

Here in Tiruvaalangkaadu

10

Bewildered mind, dazed heart

They place the dead on poles

At the crossroads, the heir performs rites

Lights the pyre from the flames of the coals

Celestials sound the drums

In time with His clanking anklets

At dusk, the greatest of dances does He dance

Here in Tiruvaalangkaadu

11

Competing against each other

Howl His ghouls

The fox sounds as if the lute were played

The Father in Tiruvaalangkaadu

Has been sung of, by this Ghoul of Karaikkal

Those well-versed shall understand

This decad in chaste Tamil,

And attain bliss eternal at His feet

11.004 Arputhath Thiruvandhathi, Chain of verses on the wonders of the Lord (101 verses)

Author: Karaikal Ammaiyar

Translator: HR from Sivapuram Appaya Deekshidar Sankaranarayan, T.N. Ramachandran of Thanjavur, Professor Karen Pechilis and Sheela Venkatakrishnan of Chennai

1

Oh blue-throated Lord, I was born to sing your praises. I was born to worship your holy feet with loving devotion. When will you remove the obstacles from my quest? You came to save the celestials who were churning the ocean. Please shower your grace on me as well.

2

He may not show me pity, He may not remove the obstacles and show me the true path to liberation, But the love in my heart will never cease for the One whose form is Light, who wears a garland of bones and dances gracefully in a ring of fire.

3

I am not duty-bound to anyone else. My love is only for Siva, the One who wears the crescent moon in His matted hair. In all my lives, I will serve no one but Him. He, alone, will rule over us forever.

4

Our Lord’s body has a reddish hue but his neck is dark blue. Drawing close to Him, we tell our sorrows, the dark memories of our misdeeds But He says nothing. Only silence.

5

Matching karma with form He brings life to all souls. He severs the soul from the body as well. When we pray “Oh Father, please help us and cure our ills” He’ll transform all our suffering.

6

The one whose neck glows blue from swallowing the poison, He’s called the Lord of the Celestials, Emperor of Heaven, and Lord of Kailash. He reveals Himself in the hidden depth of Mystic Knowledge. He lives within my heart.

7

Mine is the path of austere yoga disciplines, of fire and transformation. My heart is radiant and pure. Guided by the three-eyed Lord, who is covered with holy ash, who wears the elephant’s hide, I am determined to break the bondage of reincarnation.

8

He became my master; Precious like a mountain of gold. Ganga’s pure waters fall upon His chakra crown, In His hand he holds a flame. Come close to Him, our gracious Lord, and He will end all births.

9

Our Lord’s holy grace pervades and animates existence- All states and every being. His eternal grace grants liberation. Poised in Him in contemplation, through His grace I will realize His Absolute Perfection.

10

My sweet Lord is my treasure, the source of inner happiness. He is my heartbeat and I am in unending bliss, in eternal joy. Is there anything else to desire or to need? No, nothing at all.

11

Thinking only of Him, serving only Him. I hold Him in my heart, that One who holds the Ganga and the crescent moon in His matted hair and fire in the palm of His hand.

12

That is the Lord. His bases six are also That and His crown encircled with konrai blossoms glistening with dew. Those who spiritual sight awakens to That will seek to merge in That.

13

With Parvati as His left-hand side, Isn’t it dangerous to have a hissing cobra on His chest? Won’t the cobra slither over to Her side? Won’t that cause all kinds of ills?

14

My dear heart will, on its own, always think of Him, The One who supports a venom spitting cobra on His radiant chest. My heart will seek to save itself. Surely He will offer refuge and release.

15

If the celestials cannot gain oneness with His feet by worshipping him with flowers and meditation, how can I, who only offers praise with beautiful words, know if He will grace me?

16

Oh my heart, clinging to the Lord’s holy feet we’re blessed with His grace. We are secure and will not suffer anymore. Clinging to His feet we can cross the raging ocean of karma and the endless round of birth and death.

17

He can be perceived in Guru, linga, and in all-that-is. He can be seen by those who hold their hands in adoration and look to Him with love. For those who seek Him with their inner eye He manifests as light in their heart and mind.

18

With only his big toe He overcame the power of the demon Ravana Who tried to lift and carry away the Kailash mountain. Is He Brahma, the four-faced speaker of the Vedas? Is he the Omnipotent Vishnu or Siva, the Self beyond the mind? How shall I think of Him? How shall I truly know Him?

19

Brahma and Vishnu could not measure him. Beyond time and space, he becomes all the worlds. Not comprehended by the mind; Only known through spiritual realization.

20

He is the Truth that is realized. He is the knower, the knowing and the knowledge. By his grace Wisdom is revealed. He is the Sun, the Earth and all that is. He is absolute perfection, the fullness of Being.

21

He is the Unmanifest which manifests all. He is the eight forms- the Ashta Murthi. He is the Primal Soul. He is the Sun and the moon. He has become the elements: earth, air, fire, water and ether.

22

Oh Lord, the color of your neck is like the dark blue cloud that makes the dark night even darker. Please protect and calm the fear of the crescent moon riding on your crest. It appears as if the serpent, coiled on your head nearby, intends to devour it.

23

The crescent moon, the venom spitting cobra and the Ganga all adorn our Father’s crown. Though He may not favor us, we will always serve Him. Our thoughts have always been only of Him. Because of this we are happy and content.

24

Thoughts of Him are illuminated by His light- Light within my soul. This light is my refuge. Light that’s seen by the Third-Eye chakra.

25

Our Lord wanders the earth begging for alms, not caring about praise or insult. He dances in the cremation ground in the darkness of night. Why does He do this? When He reveals His true Self to us then perhaps we will know.

26

The dancing Lord’s whirling strands of matted hair look like a lightning storm that flashes brightly on the peak of the golden Meru mountain; And the snakes, which dangle among the garlands of bones swaying on His chest, dazzle like the lightning on Meru’s slopes.

27

Oh Lord who destroyed, with a single arrow, the power of the demons and their three cities, I beg you not to wear this dangerous snake! Sinister and lethal, it makes me tremble with fear. Please wear, instead, a golden jewel to decorate your chest.

28

He wears a cobra around His hips to hold up a tiger skin. He wears another cobra as jewelry on his chest. Yet another is coiled in his matted locks. What is the mystical significance of this? How does all this relate to us?

29

Seeing His reddish body smeared with holy ash, wearing garlands of bones, looking ghoulish; there are those who cannot see His true nature. They belittle and demean Him. Ignorant ones!

30

He is praised by fearsome ghouls who watch with joy as He dances alone in the crematory fire, wearing the bones of others. The unloving cannot truly know Him. Only He can know His True Self.

31

Wearing a necklace of bones He wanders about begging for alms. The darkness of His neck fears the light from the moon nestled in His hair. Oh ignorant heart, you once feared ghosts but have now become one. You were once full of sorrow but are now happy and secure serving Him.

32

The sacred thread across His chest is like a ray of light shining down from the crescent moon in His matted hair. He is the origin, the Primal Soul. The triple-eyed One. The eye of every eye. He burned the triple cities in a time long ago.

33

The greatness of the lord with the dark blue throat cannot be known by those who merely quote from books and scripture. But He will reveal Himself, in the form that they invoke, to those who seek Him through worship, spiritual disciplines and austerities.

34

The demons were blinded to the law of karma by their violent deeds. Failing to praise and serve Him, their three cities were destroyed by a single arrow. Those who meditate and think of Him will find their karma softened. Those who fail to do this will face cruel karma head on.

35

It looks as though the darkness, afraid of its annihilation by the light of the silvery moon, has taken refuge as the dark blue stain on the neck of our Supreme Lord which is adorned with a hooded snake that has a beautiful neck.

36

Oh Lord with the dark blue stain on your neck, The crescent moon in your matted hair is afraid of the cobra that’s coiled beside it. It trembles to think that the snake will strike and devour it any day now. Poor moon, it’s destiny is to wane and not to thrive.

37

Our Lord, whose matted locks hold the crescent moon, destroyed the three great cities of asuras who failed to praise Him. Those who worship, with steadfast adoration, the Lord who wears a garland of bones, will find themselves liberated from birth in a body of flesh and bones.

38

A cobra and the sharp tusks of the black boar hang on His chest illumined by the glowing crescent moon. The tusk resembles the moon that is being eclipsed into a thin crescent by the biting snake.

39

Lovely is the reddish form of Siva who is united in one body with Shakti; She is graceful like a tender twig adorned with flowers. Beautiful like the golden Meru mountain and like Kailash when covered with holy ash.

40

Dear heart, Seek the company of the servants of Siva who sing praises to the Lord who wears the crescent moon. Offer your admiration and praise at their feet. Stay away with those who cannot even think of serving Him.

41

When we see Vishnu, who measured the worlds, on one side of Your body and Uma on the other side, we cannot see your reddish hue on either side. Your form is indistinguishable from theirs!

42

This crescent that you wear; Is it this small because it was bitten by the snake? Did you cut it down to this small size to fit in your hair? Will it ever become larger like a growing infant?

43

The celestial devas should plead with our Lord who wears the crescent to stop wandering here and there begging for alms. How else could we stop Him from doing this? The One, Indivisible, Source-of-All, only He knows.

44

He is the auspicious One, Sweet sound, Consort of Ganga, Red-bodied, Lord of the celestials. I am His servant and take refuge in Him. Why is it that He’s not yet bestowed His blessings on me?

45

You who are walking the path that leads to the sight of the Lord, Seeking the blessings of His grace, Asking “Where is God?” be assured that He is within. Search with zeal and He will easily be seen.

46

Oh you penny-pinching people, never giving to others. How ignorant and pitiable you are! Our Lord of the blue neck, ornamented with snakes, roams the earth seeking His devotees. Finding those who will give their very lives to Him is easy. Can’t you see that?

47

Dear Heart, He is united in one body with Her whose eyes are as engrossing to look upon as matching slices of a ripe and tender mango. The supreme blessing of reaching His holy feet comes only through His grace. Don’t even think, foolish one, that you can reach them solely by your own effort.

48

The hunting serpent sees the boar’s curved tusk on Siva’s chest and thinks he’s found the crescent moon. He does not see the moon on Siva’s crown. Even to this day the confused cobra does not know what is real.

49

Rays of light from the beautiful young crescent moon shine out from the matted hair of the Lord Supreme. Doesn’t this make the strands of His hair look like twisted threads of silver and gold?

50

On His right He holds the crescent in his matted hair. And on His left he shares His form with Uma. Locks of Her hair dangle like the dark fruit of the konrai tree, matching the beauty of His own matted locks.

51

During the darkest part of the Night of Dissolution, When You are to dance in the fire of the cremation ground, accompanied by ghosts, Your anklets ringing; please do not bring along the beautiful bangled Lady who shares Your form.

52

The brilliance of a full moon rising in a reddish sky cannot match the radiance of the crest of Him whose red matted locks are covered with garlands; Our Lord who shares his body with the red-eyed Vishnu.

53

The crown of our Lord who wears a cobra, is surrounded with the golden aura of blooming konrai flowers. Ganga descends from heaven onto his matted locks, a misty waterfall. It’s a sight as beautiful to look upon as clouds in the rainy season.

54

Oh Lord with a cloud-blue throat and a Spiritual-Eye, when Vishnu tried to find Your source, long ago, the search was fruitless. Since he, dark as a raincloud, is part of Your form, how is it that he could not find You?

55

Your neck was scarred when You drank the poison coming from the churning ocean while the Devas looked on in fear. The silvery moon that’s lodged in Your reddish matted hair, next to the crawling snake, also looks like it bears a scar.

56

Oh Lord who is covered with holy ash and who wears the crescent moon, You’re being accused of receiving food offerings in a begging bowl made from a skull that smells of putrid flesh. Please tell us, “Doesn’t this bother You?”

57

My Lord, please don’t go out begging while adorned with cobras! Those poisonous snakes, dancing on your body, will scare the innocent women and they will not approach You to give You alms.

58

Even a huge crackling bonfire shining against the darkening black night cannot match the glory of our Lord with reddish matted locks, whose beautiful body, the color of a crimson sunset, is shared by Her of flowery tresses.

59

Oh Lord, Your throat is blue and you have an eye on your forehead. You ride the Bull and wear the holy ash. Is this ash on the side of Your body that You share with Uma or on the other side which is Vishnu’s? I cannot grasp Your true nature. Please reveal it!

60

When clouds gather and hide the radiant beauty of the Meru mountain that will not match the sight of Siva covering his divine form, for the first time, with the defeated elephant’s hide.

61

I became Your servant even without a vision of Your divine form. Even now, though blessed by your grace, I’ve still not realized the depth of Your Being. If I am asked “Tell us the True Nature of your Lord?” I cannot answer. How would I describe it?

62

As a fierce hunter with a bow He came to test the penance of the mighty Arjuna. How would His true form compare to that? In what form might He now appear? Who really knows?

63

Oh Lord whose effulgence cannot be truly explained; can you enlighten me about the brightness of the moon lodged in Your hair. When it roams the heavens can it rival the sun?

64

Like the nocturnal serpent that seeks the white moon Wandering to find its place So does the crescent move on the beauteous locks That are the hue of a rosy-red dawn

65

His body’s appearance is like the glow of the dawn, His covering of holy ash is like the fierce sun of the day. His matted hair is like the glowing red of twilight. His neck is like the darkening night.

66

You hold the poison from the churning ocean in Your darkened neck; Why is it that the scales of the cobra, coiled on your chest, are the color of your neck? Did it rear up and touch your neck of sapphire blue? Please enlighten me.

67

The snake, the crescent, the fawn, the leaping tiger And the descending Ganga are borne by Him with love and forebearance. Thus, our Lord with a body of golden light, with the single eye upon His brow, wears the anklets of a hero above His holy feet.

68

To clear the besotted attentions of the Lady whose pretty Feet are adorned with anklets and thick red paste He Himself touches the redness with His Foot And raises It to where the young moon sits on His russet crest

69

We cling to the divine feet of the Lord, who has three eyes and wears the crescent moon. His grace will carry us fearlessly through our round of incarnations. We are blessed to be His joyful servant. How can there be any more suffering for us?

70

Dear Father, whose flailing strands of hair flash like tongues of fire. We long to see that place where You leap and dance inside the ring of fire during the dark, dark night. Please show us. This is our one great desire!

71

As the left-sided crescent on Your matted locks Does not reveal its right side as we look at You So have you hidden that half of Parvathy, Daughter of the Mountains Revealing Her and You only to Your three-eyed vision?

72

Our Father who wears the crescent, who blesses and protects the seven worlds. If I were not able to serve You and worship Your feet I would not want a life in heaven.

73

Dear heart, give your love and unending praise to the lotus feet of Him who received the undulating waves of Ganga falling down from heaven. By doing this you will surely receive all that you seek. Of this you can be certain.

74

The skull He uses as a begging bowl cannot be filled by the seven seas. Then how is it that it can be filled with the offerings of the enchanted, unselfish women?

75

The long matted locks, coiled atop the crest of our Lord, who is the abode of all goodness, are wide enough to hold the flowing movement of the muddy Ganga, the crescent moon and Rahu and Ketu, head and tail of the slithering cobra. His matted locks are as wide as the heaven which contains the movement of the stars.

76

The devas who dwell in the heaven world bow down before You. Their crowns, made of pure gold and gems, rub against Your lotus feet. From this Your holy feet are scratched and scarred. This, however, has made Your feet all the more beautiful.

77

Oh Lord, as You dance Your energetic footwork shakes the netherworld. The movement of Your head rips the sky in two. The motion of Your bangled hands and arms destroys all the directions, North, South, East and West. This place where you dance is trembling. Please dance with care!

78

He dances in the cremation grounds, where ghouls, ghosts and sprites abound. He showers His grace on all- a grace concealed to those who know Him not. But to those who see, and serve Him with unending prayer and praise, what blessings would He not reveal? What worlds would He not give?

79

Bowing before the luminous Lord with the long matted locks, offering flowers and praises to His holy feet, ever poised to be of service to our Father, this, indeed, fills our mind and heart with joy.

80

Unable to find His source or His depth, Brahma and Vishnu were finally granted His grace. They joyfully beheld His holy feet and praised Him in rapture. These are the feet that crushed the fingers of Ravana, who tried to steal the mountain, the feet that kicked Yama, the god of death, into submission.

81

By clinging to the holy feet Of Him who defeated the demons and burned their three cities with an arrow of fire, we are triumphant. Clinging to his holy feet we’ve been freed from suffering and have uprooted our karmas of past and future.

82

Consider this: The effulgent shakti energy of our Lord, whose long matted locks resemble the red rays of the sun, is nourishing, like the golden sound, to those who meditate on Him, but burning and repellant to those who do not.

83

The sight of Him with the red matted locks conjoined with Vishnu, as Harihara, is as beautiful as the sight of a golden mountain joined with a mountain of sapphire.

84

The cool, white rays of the moon as one eye Directly against the blaze of the sun as the other – Both life-giving, while the Third bursts into fiery flames To destroy the three citadels of evil

85

Concentrating on Him, worshipping Him with hands held in obeisance, mindful of His all-pervasive consciousness, full of joy and ecstasy, I hail Him as “Dancer in the fire, Lord of the highest heaven, Lord of the realm of light.”

86

The Lord with the eye on His forehead Has graced me, now and then, with His awakened spiritual sight. I have become one of the band of goodly spirits that surround Him. I could not wish for anything else.

87

Dear Heart, with love we adorn the Lord’s holy feet with garlands of flowers and song. Through love, and contemplation on Him, we attain mystic wisdom. Then how could the darkness of negative karma ever affect us?

88

Oh matchless One, wearing the bright crescent moon atop Your red matted locks, and abundantly bestowing blessings upon us, please tell us how we should describe the color of Your neck. Is it like a dark night, a dark cloud or a clear blue sapphire?

89

Please tell us: How is it that the poison darkened your neck and not your mouth? With one fiery gaze You turned to ashes the invincible god of love along with his sugar cane bow and arrow. You abide in the mystic’s pure heart and mind.

90

The waters of Ganga cascade from heaven onto the matted locks coiled atop Your head. The silver crescent and the fierce cobra are afloat on her swirling current. Oh Father, please tell us what You would do if the waters rose, Your locks were to loosen and a flood were to begin?

91

You who are enslaved by worldly values, I have been enslaved by the Lord whose red matted locks hold the flowing Ganga. I am a servant poised at His holy rose-colored feet. By chanting the mystic mantra, singing His praises with love, we will be blessed with His grace and have all that we need in this life and hereafter. Knowing this, why would you speak ill of me with a critical tongue?

92

The one whose matted locks look reddish-gold, He owns me. He is All-that-is, One, unique and indivisible, Indescribable, even by Himself! He blesses all beings with His grace.

93

Oh dear heart, know that Siva is the Eternal Lord of all the heavenly beings. Oh dear mind, desire to see His rose coral hue and dark colored neck. And seek, with true love, His all-pervasive love and live in that love forever.

94

Oh Lord of the dark storm clouds, Oh Lord who rides the massive bull, is it because of love that You are never separate from Uma? Is it because of Uma’s love that She never parts from You? Or would She be afraid to be far away from You?

95

Dear Lord who is adorned with white holy ash and a garland of bones, these two are inseparable from You: Uma who abides with you on Your left side, and Ganga on Your holy crest. Both are blessed with Your love, but tell us, is one more dear to You than the other?

96

We have covered the Lord with our love. We hold him in our heart with our unending devotion and praise. He is hidden there, for none to see. And by this we are fearless and secure.

97

You become the raging inferno that cremates the universe, time and space, at the end of the cosmic cycle. Where are You storing this fire of dissolution? Is it hidden in another dimension or do you hold it carefully in the palm of Your hand?

98

Your anklets are ringing while you dance in the cremation fire in that place where ghostly beings dwell. In your palm you hold a flame. Did your hand turn red from that flame or did the flame turn red to match the beauty of your hand? Please tell us.

99

While adorned with a five-hooded cobra who is spitting fire, You perform Your dance. Please tell us; Do you dance for the cremation ground’s gleeful ghosts or for the Lady-of-Eternal-Youth who clasps the golden chalice to Her breast?

100

If he moves the earth will quake. If he looks his lightning gaze will burn all it sees. If he stomps and pounds the earth every being will be frightened. Oh Lord shining like gold, please tell us; is the mount that you ride a wild beast that roars on the mountain, a thunderbolt or Nandi the bull?

101

With her heart melting in love, this sprite called Karaikkal Ammaiyar has dictated this garland of one hundred verses. Those who ponder and recite these verses with love will surely reach the presence of the Lord. And with unending devotion they will remain, inseparably, at His feet forever.

11.020 Tiru Irattai Mani Maalai (20 verses)

Author: Karaikkaal Ammaiyaar

Translation: Sri. T. N. Ramachandran

Source: https://shaivam.org/english/sen_thiru11_kkl_irattai_manimalai.htm

1

O heart! Avoid abiding here all wilted and scared

And reduced to bones (when) assailed by the sweeping

Onslaught of cruel misery; hail Him unwearied;

He is the Lord-God whose crest is adorned

With the Ganga that flows dashing against its banks,

The white crepuscular crescent and the madar flower. 1

2

The Lord never causes them to get born on earth

Who firmly think that there is no God but He

And install Him in their manam in humble bashfulness

And also articulate His praise never forgetting Him.

3

His matted hair of ruddy gold is adorned

With Konrai flowers which are buzzed and kindled

By chafers; there the serpent of venomous sacs stands hissing:

Such is He, the long-haired Brahmin.

He is indeed the Lord who will not passively witness

The misery of worshippers who hail Him

For days on end as the Lord God.

4

He, the Brahmin, is the mighty One that comes to them

Who take refuge in Him and saves them from rebirth;

Lo, He but wears the killer-serpent and not the flowers

Of auric konrai which burgeon in bunches; O heart,What may this be?

5

O our Sankara who fixed well a long and peerless dart

To the bow in your hand to gut the triple, resentful citadels

Of the sky with ruddy fire! Tell me what will betide you

Should She–the daughter of the Mountain, the one

Whose lips are ruddy like kovvai fruit and the one

Who is concorporate with you–, now behold

Lady Ganga in your long and flowing matted hair?

6

O heart, for ever hail Him who is Sankara, the One

Of matted hair that dangles low, the righteous One who

On that matted hair sports a soaring serpent and the One

Who on that day saves you from the onslaught of misery.

7

O Brahmin who sports on your ruddy matted hair

The Ganga that flows down and spreads everywhere

With great waves, melliferous konrai and fragrant vanni

Wreaths! If you be pleased to listen to what I say

I have something to convey you. Pray, do not sport

On your crest the hissing and wrathful snake

That crawls on your ruddy and beauteous garlands.

8

He is Vediyan; He is the import of the Vedas; He is the One

Who authored the Vedas; Betelgeuse is His asterism;

To behold His feet, Vishnu as a puissant boar burrowed

Into the earth in vain and eventually owned his inability.

9

He who seek to avoid the base and miserable flood

(Of birth and death) and gain entry and abiding life

In the world of eternal bliss, do what I bid you.

He, the Hero annihilated the triple citadels of His-foes;

He is eight shouldered, Bow, with delay none, at His feet

Which are like pure and fresh gold; be poised

In His worship for days without end.

10

He is the Lord of the supernal world; His asterism is Betelgeuse;

His throat is dark with the aalaalam poison that He ate; they that chant

His mystic pentadóthe chief of mantras–, adore Him and come by

The true import, can (alone) behold His feet of ruddy gold.

11

Even when the mere shadows of those that had beheld Him

Of the roseate feet–the Wearer of the heroic anklet–,

Are eyed, Karma will cease to be. While so, will

Our hoary karma stick to us at all

If we, with our hands scatter choicest flowers

In the worship of our peerless Lord whose body

Is ruddy an radiant like fire?11

12

Before the hoary Karma begins to engird you, in all swiftness

And without delay, adore and think on Him–the One

Concorporate with Uma of the soft mien–, the One that smote

Yama and the One that is adorned with the Holy Ash. 12

13

O heart, reflect on the futility of wife and sibling! He is

Our Father whose crown of matted hair ever gets wet though

A river courses through it; He is the inextinguishable fire;

He is the Lord of the celestials; He is Andavaanan; His feet are

An unfailing refuge: think of Him thus, even thus, and adore Him.

14

You sport a river in Your head; You dance in the undying fire;

You adorn Yourself with the fire’s ash; You bathe in ghee;

Such are You: how then is it that You, of yore crushed

With Your foot the head and the twenty shoulders of the Asura? 14

15

O Righteous Lord that wears the heroic anklet!

The dry and strong-mouthed ghouls standing sing Your praise;

Bhootas stand and adore You; the great crematory is

Your theatre where You dance and dance. How is it

That You sped an arrow from Your bow and caused

The triple citadels of the Asuras to get gutted with fire? 15

16

Thanks to our five senses which by true analysis kept away

From false faiths, performing righteous acts only, our love

 Of servitorship for the Lord who peeled the hide

Of the pachydermatous tusker and mantled

 His triple from therewith, is on the ascendant.

17

How are we to attain Him in love?

The snake that dances on His person

Will suffer none to come near it;

Moreover, all that we behold before us

Are only a row of skulls and white bones.

Besides He but rides, in delight, a bull.

18

He has crest of bright matted hair where courses a river;

His mount is but the bull; when of yore, the celestials gathered

And churned the great ocean He ate the venom spat out

By a hooded snake different from the one worn by Him; He is our Lord.

19

He is peerless; He ever rides a young white bull;

He seeks not a similar mount for His

Consort Uma whose lips are ruddy like kovvai

But rides His bull with Her; He is the noble One.

I render Him service sweet for ever.

If one day I importune Him to bless me,

Will He not bless me?

20

If you die, your noble kin will pile up dead wood and burn you;

O heart like unto the sea, while yet alive live loftily;

Listen with zest to the glory of Him–the Bather in ghee

Who ate the venom of the vast sea–, and stand redeemed.

Sekkilar (Periya Puranam)

12.017 Urutthira Pasupati Nayanar Puranam (verses 10) 

Recommended by Dr. Sabharathanam, deals with the efficacy and greatness of the chanting of SriRudram.

Translation by TN Ramachandran

1

Great Tiru-th-Thalaiyoor among all towns, is endowed with superior excellence; it is situate In the land of the Kaveri, and its fields and groves get richly watered; here flourish flawless families galore, well-endowed, and lacking nothing.

2

The fire of the sacrificial pit tended by Brahmins supplied them with rain; the dense gardens, fragrant and flowery, supplied them with honey; the kine gave unto the Lord the Panchakavya; the town bestowed on men dharma, niti and salpu. 

3

In that grace-abounding town, from the family of Brahmins firm-established in the truth of the Vedas, He, the pure one, came to be born; he was called Pasupatiyar; in love he served the Lord whose mount, the red-eyed Bull Is Vishnu, and whose Consort is the liana-like daughter of rich and auric Himavant. (1033) 

4

Chanting Sri Rudram, this Brahmin hailed the flower-feet of the Lord, unknown to Vishnu; His heart poised in Vedic devotion, in love and without break, he was ever chanting Rudram which is by the Vedas treasured; thus the throve In this way of life as a leader. (1034) 

5

To the endless din of birds’ twitter and the hum of honey-bees, he would enter the pool where burgeon fragrant red-lotuses like a blaze of flame on water and where dark varals leap and rows of carps roll. (1035) 

6

Thither would be stand neck-deep in the lucid water cool, hold his hands above his head, folded in adoration and practice the purposive chanting of Sri Rudram In loving devotion of the Lord in whose matted hair the white-waved Ganga flows and overflows. (1036) 

7

He who was like unto Brahma throned on lotus chanted Sri Rudram — the very fruit of the true Vedas –, during broad day and eventide, without fail; when he chanted thus for some days he attained at-one-ment; the Lord of Uma was pleased. (1037) 

8

The primal Lord approved of the loving devotee’s blorious and rare askesis and his excelling mastery and regulation of the Vedic mantras, and in grace, blessed him to abide in the blameless world of Siva. (1038) 

9

As he chanted Sri Rudram with ever-during love, He came to abide under the gracious dancing feet of the Lord and came to be hailed by the world with the renowned name Rudra-Pasu-Patiyar. (1039) 

10

Having hailed the glory of Rudra-Pasu-Patiyar who was blessed to abide near Him and hail Him of the sharp trident, we now proceed to hymn The divine servitor, Nalai-p-povar who would serve without the temple and without the precincts of forted Tillai. (1040) 

12.058.  Pattharayp Panivar Puranam (8 verses)

Recommended by Dr. Sabharathanam, sings the greatness of the Devotees who are with uninterrupted devotion.

Translator: TN Ramachandran

1

Whenever they behold (any of) the devotees of the Lord, feeling humble and shy, they hail them in great joy; love-borne they seek the devotees, even as the calf seeks its mother-cow, and speak to them in all humility with words all compact of sweetness.

2

When they happen to witness anywhere the flawless pooja unto Sambu performed by devotees, whoever they be–, they gain at once the sat-bhaavana and gracious look of such worshippers in the presence of many; by reason of their rare love and devotion, they are loftier than the loftiest.

3

They will, in soaring joy and insatiable devotion, render willing pooja to the Merciful One and His devotees; they possess such tapas which links them to the feet unattainable even by Brahma throned on Lotus and Vishnu whose bed is the Snake.

4

“Whatever acts the body does, let them be invested with the competency to reach the lotus-feet of the Lord whose flag sports the Bull.” with this, their cherished ideal, they render their service to the Lord whose ear is decked With a white Kuzhai; they will not slip Into uterus–the pit of transmigration; the whole world is no match for their glory.

5

The will ever listen to the holy lilas of Sankara; their love for the Merciful One is limitless; by reason of their love–unbeknown to others–, for the Lord who willingly wears on His beauteous crown the river Ganga, the crescent moon and konrai flowers, they are privileged to reach the Lord’s feet, like unto the red lotus-flower.

6

They hail the Lord alone, melt in devotion, and feeling exceedingly joyous, their very speech becomes incoherent; the great flood of tears cascading down, washes away the flawless holy ash applied to their chests the hair on their bodies stands erect in thrilled ecstasy; forever modest and shy, their bodies are ever atremble; they are full of virtue true.

7

These are service-minded devotees endowed with a perfect consciousness who never once at any time– whether standing, sitting, lying, walking, eating, sleeping, waking or winking–, forget the flower-feet that dance in the Ambalam.

8

Poised in the tapaswic servitorship to Sankara they flawlessly enjoy themselves with the fruit thereof; their glory invests the world with resplendence; they adore the feet of the Merciful One–the Lord Of Tiruvaaroor–, and in devotion which forever swells In their chittha- -, they as true bhaktas hail the Lord.