Divya Prabandham
Explanation
The Bhakti movement in South India (roughly 6th to 9th centuries CE) was led by two distinct groups of saint-poets: the Nayanars, who were devotees of Shiva, and the Alvars, who were devotees of Vishnu. Their respective literary compilations form the canonical texts of Tamil Shaivism and Vaishnavism.
Option Analysis:
- Tevaram: This is a collection of hymns composed by three prominent Nayanars-Appar, Sambandar, and Sundarar. It comprises the first seven volumes of the Tirumurai (the holy canon of Tamil Shaivism). Therefore, it is associated with the Nayanar tradition.
- Tiruvacakam: Composed by the poet-saint Manikkavacakar, this work is the eighth volume of the Tirumurai. It is a key text in the Nayanar (Shaivite) tradition.
- Divya Prabandham Divya Prabandham: The Nalayira Divya Prabandham (Four Thousand Divine Compositions) is an anthology of hymns composed by the 12 Alvars in praise of Lord Vishnu. It is the central scripture of the Sri Vaishnava tradition and is not associated with the Nayanars.
- Periya Puranam Periya Puranam: Written by Sekkizhar in the 12th century, this work is a hagiography (biography of saints) detailing the lives of the 63 Nayanars. It is the twelfth and final volume of the Tirumurai. Therefore, it is associated with the Nayanar tradition.
Key Takeaway:
The literary canon of the Nayanars (Shaivites) is collectively known as the Tirumurai, whereas the literary canon of the Alvars (Vaishnavites) is known as the Nalayira Divya Prabandham.