Nayanars
Explanation
The Bhakti movement in South India (c. 6th–9th centuries CE) was characterized by the emergence of poet-saints who composed devotional hymns in the vernacular Tamil language. These saints were divided into two primary groups: the Nayanars (devotees of Shiva) and the Alvars (devotees of Vishnu). Their literary contributions laid the foundation for the Bhakti tradition in the region.
Detailed Analysis
- Tevaram: This collection comprises the first seven volumes of the Tirumurai, which is the twelve-volume canon of Tamil Shaiva poetry. The Tevaram consists of hymns composed by the three most prominent Nayanar saints: Appar (Tirunavukkarasar), Sambandar, and Sundarar. These hymns are sung in Shiva temples to this day.
- Tiruvacakam: This text forms the eighth volume of the Tirumurai. It was composed by the Nayanar saint Manikkavacakar. It is celebrated for its intense emotional devotion and exposition of Shaiva Siddhanta philosophy.
- Incorrect Options:
- Alvars: These were Vaishnavite saints. Their hymns were compiled into the Nalayira Divya Prabandham.
- Virashaivas: This movement, led by Basavanna in Karnataka (12th century), is associated with Vachana literature in the Kannada language.
- Sufis: Sufism represents Islamic mysticism. Their literature typically includes Malfuzat (conversations) and Maktubat (letters), distinct from the Tamil Bhakti tradition.
Key Takeaway: The Tevaram and Tiruvacakam are canonical texts of the Nayanars (Shaiva tradition), whereas the Divya Prabandham belongs to the Alvars (Vaishnava tradition).