The Influence of Thiruvasagam on the Philosophical and Devotional Hymns of Pattinathar”

பட்டினத்தார் பாடல்களில் திருவாசக நெறி

Abstract

This study explores the influence of Thiruvasagam on the devotional and philosophical expressions found in the hymns of Pattinathar. It highlights how the core principles of Saiva Siddhanta, particularly the concepts of impermanence, renunciation, devotion, and the role of the Guru, are reflected in Pattinathar’s songs. The study makes a comparative analysis between Thiruvasagam and Pattinathar’s compositions, identifying similarities in themes such as the transient nature of life, the rejection of worldly attachments, the cycle of birth, and intense spiritual longing for union with Lord Siva. Further, the paper examines the use of similes and poetic expressions that reinforce spiritual insights in both works. It also emphasizes the continuity of Tamil Bhakti tradition and the way Pattinathar adopts and reinterprets the spiritual path laid down in Thiruvasagam. Overall, the study establishes that Pattinathar’s hymns are deeply rooted in the philosophical and devotional framework of Thiruvasagam, thereby affirming its lasting impact on Tamil religious literature.