Divya Prabandham

Divya Prabandham

The Divya Prabandham is a revered collection of 4,000 Tamil verses (pasurams) composed by the twelve Alvars, who were Tamil poet-saints devoted to the Hindu god Vishnu. This collection is considered one of the foundational texts of the Sri Vaishnavism tradition and is often referred to as the "Tamil Veda."

Etymology

The term "Divya Prabandham" can be translated as "Divine Composition." The word "Divya" means "divine" and "Prabandham" refers to a "composition" or "literary work."

Historical Context

The Alvars lived between the 6th and 9th centuries CE in the Tamil region of South India. Their hymns were composed in praise of Vishnu and his various forms and abodes. The Alvars traveled extensively, visiting various Vishnu temples, which are now known as Divya Desams.

Compilation

The Divya Prabandham was compiled in its current form by Nathamuni, a 10th-century Vaishnavite theologian and philosopher. According to tradition, Nathamuni heard a few verses of the Prabandham and was inspired to collect the entire set. He is credited with organizing the hymns into the 4,000-verse collection we have today.

Structure

The Divya Prabandham is divided into four parts:

• Mudhal Ayiram (First Thousand)
• Periya Thirumozhi (Great Sacred Sayings)
• Thiruvaimozhi (Sacred Word of Mouth)
• Iyarpa (Unadorned Verses)

Each section contains hymns that are rich in devotional fervor and poetic beauty, expressing the Alvars' deep love and devotion to Vishnu.

Significance

The Divya Prabandham holds a special place in the Sri Vaishnavism tradition. It is recited in temples and homes, and its verses are integral to the liturgical practices of the tradition. The hymns are also seen as a bridge between the Sanskrit Vedas and the Tamil-speaking devotees, making the teachings of the Vedas accessible to a wider audience.

Influence

The Divya Prabandham has had a profound influence on Tamil literature and culture. It has inspired numerous commentaries and has been a source of inspiration for later Tamil poets and scholars. The work also played a crucial role in the development of the Bhakti movement in South India.

Notable Alvars

Some of the most prominent Alvars whose works are included in the Divya Prabandham are:

• Nammalvar
• Periyalvar
• Andal
• Thirumangai Alvar

See Also

• Sri Vaishnavism
• Alvars
• Bhakti movement
• Vishnu

References

• Srivaishnavam.com - Divya Prabandham
• Tamil Virtual University - Divya Prabandham

External Links

• Sacred Texts - Divya Prabandham