Idol worship

Temple visit and holy worship is meant only for a single person. They are meant for all, worship God Population is great, but Majority is in a stage of ignorance of such kind of worship. The holy idols in Saiva temples are meant to make, the above mentioned majority, to understand and pray to his almighty who in reality, does not process any particular figure or attitude. For the betterment of mankind, and owing to his kindness towards mankind, God His almighty time to time appears, in different forms owning to this reason, he appears in very many forms

Owing to this reason, he appears in very many forms. Among the ignorant crowd, there are some, who are intelligent and matured. For such people’s worship Sivalingha idol is worth and suitable. For those who are not in a position to understand the reality of the shape of Sivalingham, there are God’s statues with hands and legs which gives clear knowledge to the so called majority and these statues are named as Uruvaththirumenikal. This explation is given by religious scholars.

From ancient time, Idol worship was common in our religion. Harappa and Mahanjathra were two ancient towns of where Hindu civilization blissed. During the Archeological researches done in these towns, many satutes of God and Goddesses were found and they stand a proof far the worship of Uruvaththirumeni in ancient times. These holy statues remain as a help to mankind to think, to pray and to realise thegreatness of the Hindu religion and the holy statues. A vivid explanation of the above, is given in the following songs “Saivaththin Thonmai” and “Sinthuvelikala Siva Valipadu” in this text. Thus these holy statues constantly remind one, and all about the greatness of His Lord and his variety of forms.

One who terms maths uses symbols to learn understand and gain knowledge in maths In this way, man gives up to moon orbit doing research etc. Thus these symbols paves the way to one to reach the goal, so we can’t come to the conclusion that these symbols are false and untrue.

Thus in the spiritual world too, the way for us, to find out and see God His mighty, whom we have to see with our mind power. The final stage we received, is known as Sivaanupoavam. So the holy statutes play the part as the symbols in Mathematics do, here God His almighty himself, among those who reached such kind of Sivaanupavam, Markkandeyar can be mentioned his life history belongs to that category.

Among the 63 Samaya Kuravarkal, in our relation the following can be mentioned, as those Nayanmar who attained divinity through Idol worship. They are Eripaththar, Kalayar, Murugar, Kannappar, Aanayar, Sandeswarar, Thirunaalaippovaar, Searaman Perumal, Saakkiyar, Thandiyadikal, Poosalar, Kanampullar, Pukalchcholar, Iadikal, Kaadavarkoan,

When we worship God we must understand and believe that, apart from the figure that we see mind voice, at the same time our mind and thought also reaches the great thing which is unreachable to our knowledge. We must believe that there is a truth in this. From the beginning, when we pray to the statue we believe that there is God in it, but in course of time, we will feel sure that there is God and God alone.

When we pray to Idols the mind of one and all, concentrates only on the Idols alone’ and this proves that, thoughts have great powers and where there thoughts concentrate on thing alone, there Gods great power will appear.

This power evil bless the devotee with so many advantages as to realize the existence of God himself wide knowledge and a good like with all advantages only such devotees possessing the above mentioned attributes can produce the Thoththira Sasththiras etc. which are the fundamentals of Saivasm a description of devotees who does not do religious rites, but pray to the stature of God, and belief the presence of God and this Omni presence is found in Appar Swamikalls “Thiruvaroor” Thiruththanda Kappathikam as follows “Uyera Vannamirunthu Uttunokki Ullakkiliynuru Veluthi” (Ullakkil is the mind screen where the picture is drawn) Idol worship is suitable for those who follow the ways Sariyai, Kiriyai and Yogam. this very idea is emphasized in the Sivagnanasiththiya. Thoththiram in Saivasiththantha text.

“Thirukkavil Ullirukkum Thirumaeni Thannai Sivan Enaval Kandavarkku Sivan Uraivaan. Ankal Urukkoli Manthiraththal Enninayumavarkku Wanenkum Elanerkum.

The holy statues in temples are also called in various other names which are as follows:-

Vikkirakam Bimbam, Moorthy Paeram and Pirathimai, these names are found in

Among these terms the letter ‘V’ has the following meaning “Visedam” Kiralla and Idam, on the whole it means that this is the place where God his might abide to be clear, God is omnipresent but he is also present in idols in temples.

In temples we see God’s statues which are made out of stones and copper. Those which are made of stone is known as “Katsilai” or “Silaavikkirakam”

These are made according the instructions given in Aagamum and placed in the temple devotee’s worship. For these statues Thirumanjanam and Pooja are conducted but for copper made statues only Pooja is conducted and no Thirumanjanam take place.

The architect who makes such statues must strictly follow the rules and regulations given. It he violates these run and losses will hopper to him as well as to the country itself. Thus says Sitpa Aagamam Silpa Literalize and Puranas.

The height of a statue must be followed according to the four measurements given in Sitpa Nool. They are Paerankulam, Manamkulam Mathirankulam and Thaekalapthankulam. Measurement of the circumference, must be taken according the following two ways: –

Maanam Piramanam, Unmanam, Parimanam Upamanam and Ilamhamanam. Thus for God his almighty who is omnipresent formless as described in Manikkavasagar’s Thiruvasaga lines as “OruNaamum Orruruvam Onrumillarkku Aayairam Thirunamam Paadi Thellenam Koddamo” For His Almighty of such great qualities Sivalinga Idol, Thaandava Nadarasar, Theviyar.

Thadchchana Moorthy and main Moorthtankal as Vinayagar Subramaniyar, Kaalavairavar as Saarbu Moorththangal.

Among these ‘Shivam’ is graded (considered) to be Aruvam or Aroovam; Sivalingham as Rooparoopam or Aruruvam and the rest three as Roopam or Uruvam.

Hindu Saivaists have the habit of worshipping all the forms and images which Lord Paramasivam takes from time to time, when this worship occurs the devotees bring to these mind all the occurrences miracles at grace and greatness of Lord Shiva. In fact, first these holy figures make the devotee to know above the holy incidents, and in course of time, they induce the devotee to realize the truth behind these holy incidents. When one look with piety at the Nadaraja Vikkirakam, he is impressed by the very sight of it is almighty specially Lord, bearing the weapons, his hands pointing out certain incidents, and his Apayakaram which assures safety creations, his jewelries etc. The devotee understands all this and pray sure he will be blessed to the full.

God is described as nameless, formless, token less but because of his holy love blessings and affection towards the souls, from time to time God Appears in different forms figures and names. All the variety appearance of its almighty is owing to the kindness he has towards the souls. His different forms and figures explains in many and different ways, His “Pancha Kiruththiyam” In a temple which is constructed according to the religious rites which Sivagamam says, a “Yanthiram” which is placed under the main statue the interiou part of the temple is blessed with high heavenly power statues which are without this “Yanthiram” doesn’t pocess this high power Arul thought they appear holy. They are not accepted for Pooja. This Yanthirams are of high importance and without them no Poojas are conducted. A statue without the “Yanthiram” only helps the devotee to concentrate himself in worship. Because of this only Poojas are conducted to in certain occasion only to “Yanthiram” without a statue. These “Yanthiram” reveal a truth which is as follows.

At the beginning this “Yanthiram” appears to be a small sheet of metal. But in course of time, because of the manthiras poojas and other rituals it receives high power and is called as “Sith Pirakasa Aavakanam. This process can be compared to a piece of iron becoming magnet.

This “Yanthiram” became God’s entire after it under goes the Piraana Pirathdde. Hind scholers says that Thousands of Sun’s brightness is in it day and night power full holy blessing powers is sprayed from the above mentioned “Yanthiram”. These “Yanthiram” also ought to be treated with spiritual pooja and rituals, other wish in course of time they will loose their powers, owning to this the Idol power also will subside.

According to this laws of Aagamam, when Apidegam. Holy Balk takes place in Temple’s heavenly power which is in the “Yanthiram” and pimpam makes everything holy and powerful. At the end of the pooja in a temple, Sandeswarar Pooja and Visarchanam takes place, at the end of which the Pirasanna Moorthy disappear and the entire blessings and grace spreads all over the country for the welfare of all living beings.

SHIVAN

The divine bodies of God Shiva are known as Aruvam, Uruvam and Aruurvam.

“Anrum Thiruvurvam Kaanatha Adpaddaen
Inrum Thiruvuruvam Kaankilaen
Evvuruvaun Numbiran Enparkku Ennuraikkaen
Evvuruvan Ninnuruvameathu”
By Kaaraikaal Ammaiyar

“Maipaditha Kannalum Thanumkachchi
Mayanathan Vaarsadaiya Enninallan
Oppudaiyan Allan Oruvan Allan,
Oorurunalan Oruvan Allan
Appadiyum Anniramum Avvannamu
Avanarulale Kannakakkanin Allal
Ippadiyan Inniraththan Ivvannaththan
Evaniraivan Enreluthik Kaaddonaathal”
By Appar Addikal

Aruvaththierumaeni cannot be seen by the normal eyes. It can be seen only by Yogys who use their mind to see it. The next is called Aruvam because it doesn’t pocess organs like legs and hands. The next that is Uruvam is can which be seen by the normal eyes and felt by touching. In such condition is named as Aruurvam. This Aruuruvaththottam is only meant for God Shiva and Shiva alone. Because of Shiva rare specialty it is known and named as Sivalingham. When one pray to God who is beyond our visual and touching reach Sivalingam is there as a symbol of him.

Illingham many high truths and realities. The important and main idol in a temple Shivalingham. In the term “Illingham” The 1st part of the world “link” means layam or subsides and “Kam” means appear. In short it means Shivalingham is the symbol it the world’s appearance and disappearance.

The wames and places where the 12 Sothilinghamas which ought to be worshipped by the Saivasits are as follows:

(1) Somanathalingam which is along the Arabian Sea in Gujarath
(2) Sree Sailim Mallikaarchchanalingham at Thiruperupatham
(3) Thiruavanthy Makalalingham at Uchchayn
(4) Oonkkaralingham at the bank of Narmatha river near Japalppour
(5) Thirukketharalingham at the top of Kaadamanmalai in the north.
(6) Bheemasangaralingham in Deccan.
(7) Visvalingham Vaaranasi (Kasi)
(8) Thiriyambakalingham at where away from Panchavadi
(9) Sithapuram Vaythiyanathalingham
(10) Nageswaralingham of Tharukavanam
(11) Rameshwaralingham at Saethvil
(12) Ckchmesalingham at Sivalayam

Ilingham is shapeless. It is of Aruruva form. The Lingha portion denotes Shivam and Peedam denotes Shakthi. Thirumoolar in his Thiru Manthiram says that Lingham is of wisdom and Piranava form.

Lingham has no shape of its own, but if depicts the appearances of all world and Sarasam. Any living being when it is in the shapeless; it is in the form of a block. At the beginning earth and the stars were all in the form of an egg. Because of this, they are known as Anndam which denotes is in the form of Annda egg shape God his almighty who doesn’t process a constant form, gets in to different form and figures in order to grace all living beings; at this juncture he gets into Aruruvam. This very Uruvam is denoted or depicted by Lingham. In this Shivalingham, Shivam is worshipped as Sathasiva Moorthy form this Sathasiva Moorthy only. Eesanam and other 6 faces including other parts are formed Eesanam. That purusam Akooram, Vamathevan and Sathiyasatham are the five faces that denotes Thiru Arul which Panchchakiruththyam which are respectively. Padaiththal Kaththal Aliththal Arulal and Maraththal.

To the devotees who does Sariyai Vathipaad Lord Shiva blesses them being in the Lingham for those who worshipped in the terms of Kiriyai and Yoga, the blesses them appearing in front of them for Gnans God blesses them in the form of love and grace and even appears in front of them when needed.

THE VARIETY OF LINGHAM

Shivalingham is of two types as Pararththalingham or Thavaralingham and Aanmarththalingham or Iddalingham. The

Lingham which is in temples for our worship is name as Pararththalinham or Thavaralingham. The Lingham that formed by itself is called as Suyambulingham. The Lingham that is found by Ganapathy as Kanalingham Lingham that is found by Devas are named as Thaivikalingham, Lingham found by Irudikal is named as Aradilingham and the one found by Mankind is named as Manidalingham. Lord Shivan abides in Pararaththalingham up to Sankara Kalam and graces the souls Priests, born in Aathisaiva Marabu and qualified with the 3 Theedcha and Achchariya Abidekam and possessing the knowledge of Vethaakamam are fit to conduct Pooja to Pararththalingham. The Lingham worshipped by one who does that according to the advice and guidance of his priest is named as Aanmarththalingham, Iddalingham. This lingham is many kinds as follows:- Swarnalingham Padikalingham and Sailalingham.

Aanmarththapooja can be done life long and they must be aware of the Sivapooja of devotees only these kind consecrate in the above mentioned style of worship others can only follow the Sanikalinghapooja which means after worship it is usual to throw them in the ponds or rivers. This types of Sanikalingham is made of sand, rice, cowdung, butter cooked rice, sandal flour, uruththirakkam and so, on.

The more suitable and proper times to worship Sivaperuman is the month of December which is known as Thiruananthakalam, January which is known as Kalai Santhikkalam April which is known as to July which is known as Saayaradchcai Kalam and October, which known as Arththasamakkalam Altogether they are 5 in number among these periods the month December, which is known as Thiruvananthatkalam is considered to be the best and suitable worshipping throughout this month and the Moolalingham with Ghee and young coconut water and after celebrating the holy swing festival is believed to bless the devotee with maximum benefits.

God Shiva seated rocking on the holy swing which is the emblem of Thiru Arud Sakkthi, indicates that the is the grate power who destroys all the sins of the souls which have been the Couse for their many births and also cuts away their ties and male them fits to be blessed by him. His feet that indicates this grace for the souls is the final residence of the souls themselves.

All flowers except Thaalamboo can be used for Shiva Pooja.

The following flowers ought not to be used for poojas :- jaded flowers, flowers that have fallen on the ground, used flowers, crumbled flowers, flowers which are plucked and kept in the night, buds flowers that are bitten by insects, flower that are mixed with spider threads and hairs flowers, that are plucked by those who didn’t Siva Theedcha, flowers that are plucked by those who didn’t have the bath etc.

SHIVA MOORTHTHANGAL

In a Shivan temple there are many idols each of them has its own inner meaning and some background incidents from puranas God Shiva appears in a variety of to suit the nature, piety of the devotees and to bless them too.

Aakamankal Puranankal describes 25 of such they are as follows Nadesar, Chandrasekarar, Umamahesar, Idaptoodar Kalyanesunarar, Pidchchadanar, Kaamari Kaalari, Thiripurari, Salantharari, Mathankari, Veerapaththirar, Hariyarththar, Arththa Naareeshwarar, Kiraathar, Kankgalar, Sandesaanukkirakar, Neelakandar, Chakkarappirathar, Kayamuhaanukkirakar, Somaskanthar, Eelkapathar, Sukaaseenar, Thadchchanamoorthy, and Linkotppavar.

Among these, mostly the following Uruvaththirmeni are found in most of the temples. They are Nadesar (Sahapathy) Chandrasekarar, Somaskanthar, Thadchchanamoorthy and Pidchchadanar. The above mentioned as Moorththams are known as Maheswara Moorththam.

NADESAR

Panchakiruththiam. His Anavarathathandavaul in the for all the world’s activities and movements. The power of all these movements and activities is derived from his dance only. Nadarajaperuman is the head and leader of all such dances. This dance is the basic and first reason for the continuous movements from atom to spheres.

Thottam Thudiyathanil Thoyum Thithiyamaippil
Saahiydum Ankiyilae Sankaram Uuttamam
Uunru Malarppathathae Utta thirothamuththy
Naanra Malarppathaththae Naddu

One hand of Nadesaperuman bears an instrument named Udukkai. It creates sound. This sound arises from the sky. Sky is one of the 5 elements. It is the first and the foremost among the 5 elements and powerful also from this sky wind is born and from wind five is born and from five water is born water land is formed from the above details we can easily understand that sound is the best for all other creations. The sound of Udukkai shows Nathathaththuvam nature of sound) from this only the 36 principles are formed. This particular line shows the creation activity of God himself Nadarajaperuman’s, Apayakaram shows his protection activity. His Nadarajaperuman’s hand bearing fire shows his destruction activity; that is known as Sarvasankaram. The particular line Nanra Malarppathaththaa Nadu us to pray to Nadarayaperuman’s raised feet under which feet we can attain bliss. That can be described as God’s grace also under the tramped feet of his almighty lies Aanavamalam in the name of Muyalakan thereby the soul is gest free from all moral evils.

CHANDRA SEKARAR

Chandrasekara bears Umathevyar at his left side. This appearance deonles prosperity and joy crescent moon shine on his locks of hair. Because of this he is named as Chandrasekarar. When the moon was its one by one God resuced the moon and this is the occasion where he was called as Chandrasekarar. This Muthurthham denote that those who have full faill in his alimighty, will face no difficulties or worries in life. The following Thirukural says so.

Vaenduthal Vaandamai Illan Adi Saentharkkuyandum Idumbai. This Muhurththam depcitstha, this is the last for these who suffer a lot. the moon and the snake which are on God’s locks of hair (Sadai) indicates that for those who believe in His Almighty to the last resort there is nothing to be feared. The following says so “Anchuvathu Yathonrumillai Anja Varuvathumillai”

To quote the Thevaram Poombodu Thingal Pakai Theerththandai this indicates that moon is snake is poison, but here both are the same i.e harmless for God His almighty the moon and the snake both are the same by wearing these two on his tock of the indirection says that he has neither liking nor hatred all are same to him. SOMASKANTHAR

In this Somaskanthar God Shiva turned all the world into a chariot, got in to and went to burn the three to were known as Muppuram. This is the reason why God Chadrasekar is seated in Cherri and take round the temple in during festival season. This entire incidence is worshipped by Maha Vishnu during his Yoga stage in mind voice. Musukuntha Chakkravarthty too worshipped this Moorththam. In this God and good less are present with Kanthan in the middle. This position Kanthan shows the divinity stage of Suththeththu with Siththanthikal the following statements.

“Thaayuden Senru Pin”

“Thaathayaikkoodi explains the above position. The matured soul, feels both God end godless on its both sides forgets everything and concentrates itself in praying to God and God along God and Godless are one and the same so, the matured soul blessed with Thiruarul concentrates in God and God alone. The Somaskantha Moon them is a picturesque descripted of this Moon.

Muppurem Erithinal means getting rid of inturities burning all the three i.e. Aanavam, Kanmum and Maayai.

Appani Senchadaiyaathi Purathanan
Muppuram Settanan Enparkal Moodarkal
Muppuramavathu Mummala Kaariyam
Appuram Eiythamai Yaar Arivarae

The above Thirumanthirappadda explains the above mentioned matter. In order to destroy the three impurities and to free the souls from them God created Thanu, Karenam and Puvanam and like the help of these three He purities the souls The Somaskantha Moorththam where God burns the three towers with the purified soul seated in the chariot, in the centre in the form of Kanthan (ie Murugan) in the same Kanthan Moorththam proves and explains the above facts.

THADCHANAMOORTHY

Lord Shiva in the name of Thadchanamoorthy and in the form of Guru say Gana guru gives spitual advice to the four Piramma Puththirar named Sanaka, Sananthanar Sanathanar and Sanatkumarar and other Matured souls appearing under the Kalaala Maram. This is the story behind the Lord Shivas Thanchanamoorthy form.

PIDCHACHADANAR

Pidchchadanar is the Muhurththam when Lord Shiva accepts the Anuddanams of Chepam and Thevam at the souls one can attain divinity by efforts and efforts alone and there is necessity for one to long God’s bliss and God workshops, They also had the idea that God worship too is essential to one. These were the principles of Tharukesvan hermits noticing them Sivaperuman blessed them, corrected them and made them stomach worshippers of God for this purpose only Sivaperuman took the form of Pidchchadanar.

UMADEVIJAR

Apart from Maheswara Muhurthams, Umatheviyar’s Muhurthams are also found in temples also this said that Umatheviyar is the holy power of Shivaperman. It is the mother who plays the important in giving birth to child ring bring up them with love and affection, and making them as good citizens. So is God in order to bringup the soul the does Panchchakiruththam i.e Padaiththal Kaththal, Aliththal, Arulala and Maraiththal. In this efforts of Lord Shiva, Umatheviyar who is also known as Ulagamatha, joins and plays the main part and is praised as Shakkthy, Ammai and Ulagamatha, by one and all Iranivi is known as Shakthi her powers 5 varieties as Parashakthy Sit Shakthy, Ichchasakthy, Kiriyasakthy and Ganasakthy, staying in these positions she joins Lord Shiva in His Panchahe Kiruththam and in performing her part takes the forms as Paokasakthy, Veerasakthy Kaorasakthy and Athikara Sakthi.

Parvathy Ammaiyar is meant Pogasakthy Thurkkasakthi as Veeraskthy Kaali as Korasakthy and Navayany who is part of Narayanamoorthy Athikarasakthy Athiddiththu Nittal menas using Aarayananar moorthy as the base.

Paokasakthy creates prefects and blesses all worlds. Veerasakthy who is described as a partaker in Mahidasurasankaram is the base for all success. Koorasakthi appears in a frightful form erases all sins of the souls and uplifts them. She is known and worshippted as Shankari. Athikarasakthy punishes the cruels and blesse the good souls. Her actions are named as “Thithi”.

Sathasivamorthy is worshipped in the Sivalinga form. His Sakthi is known as Manonmary. This Sakthy purities the and helps them to join Lord Shiva she is of four hands. After one hand bears lotus tower in the other two hand she hold Chepamaalai and the other hand indicates “Varatham” that means protection. The hand of is her right hand show the sign of Apayam which means protection the Apayakaram of Sakthy symbolizes her blessing of protection she entire souls. This indirectly makes the souls to realize that Godess Sakthi consoles the souls not to be afraid from the worldly agonies.

“Apayam” means getting rid of fear. The right side of Manonmany Sakthy points out her feet which denotes knowledge indicates Gnanam – knowledge. The devotee who believes and worship her feet will be bestowed with high knowledge in other words “Gnanam” and all what needed as a comparison, it can be said that, as heat in fire, flower in flower and light in Sun, God Shiva is inseparable from Sakthy, This inseparable power is what is known as Arudsalelly alias Shiva Sakthy God Shiva bears this above mentioned Sakthy as his female partner, on his side of this body. The reason and cause for this is given in the following Verse.

“Thenpalukanthadum Thillai Sittampalavan
Penpallikanthan Perumpiththan Kanaedi
Penpalukanthilanael Paethai Irunilaththor
Vinpaliyokeithy Viduvarkaan chalaelo

This from Manivasakar’s Thiruvasagam. Umai Ammai along with the following Characteristic features Umail Ammai pocesses, the following names such as Ankayatkanni, Meenadchy, Kamadchy, Rajarajeswari Puvaneshwary Maheswary Nageswary Kaali and Maari. Along with these names Umai Ammai is present in all Hindu temples all over the world Umai Ammai all devotees of Umai Ammai who is in the above forms. God Shiva too is present in the above mentioned forms of Shakthy and blesses the devotees.

The following line from Thiruvasakam clears this truth.

THE WAY OF WORSHIPPING AMMAN’S THIRUKKOVIL

The following is the procedure for a devotee who worships an Amman Kovil.

The devotee ought to be pure in heart and body when he enter the Amman Temple. first he must stand by the side of Palipeedam pray while the whole holy touching the ground four times holding his hands above his head, after which he ought to come round the temple four or six times and again pray to Thuvarakapalakar and with their blessings enter the inner temple, first worship Ganapathy then walk towards The prayers to her must be done by the temple Saiva priest. After receiving holy ash and Kunkumam from the priest and after worshipping the Shakthys Vamai and Maheswari and Mooththikal Vinayagar and Subramaniar and do the Thevy Sannithy at the ends of which clap the hands thrice and pray requesting to bless the devotee with the benefit of his worship. Then she devotee can sit alone in a silent pot in the temple and repeat saying the Devy Moola Manthiram many times as possible, after having the foam of Sakthy in mind praying the temple to over, shall return home.

The Sun reaches Katkadakam in the month of July. Aadippaaram that occurs in the month of July is a special and auspicious day to Umai Ammai. In most of the Temples, car festival is celebrated to Sakthi on this day. Thirupporur Puranam says that fasting worship to Sakkthi on this day gives wealthy health and prosperity to devotees. Aruhu and Nelli ought not be used in Shakkthi Archchanai.

Ammam (Shakkthy) worshippers are known as Sakkthy.

GENERAL

In temples there are she foams of Vinayagar, Vairavar, Veerapaththirar, Subramaniar as the holy sons of God Shiva. I can be understood that these four of which God Shiva formed for the betterment and holy achievement of the devotees. The base of these four foams is the Suththamayathathuvam. These are the four among the 25 Maheswara foam of God Shiva. God is the only one who appears in different foams and figures for the betterment of his duties. Though the foams are very many the genuine inner foam is one ie God and God lone these forms are formed in Suththaviththya Thaththvam which is above the Aanmathaththuvam which is the 24thnumber. In short God is above the 36.

“All Thaththuvam are Sadapporulkalae”

VINAYAKAR

He is also known as Sivkumarar. Though he is the form of Shivam, he is not in any way different from Shivam.

The source and cause for the origin of the worlds is Mahamaayai, it is also named as Piranavam, The term ‘Vinayagar’ denote that there is no one above him Shivasakthi which is above Piranavam is also named as Vinayagar. From ancient time, there strong belief that no hindrance will occur in any of our activities if we pray and worship Vinayagar at the beginning of our thisis a strong belief among the Hindus from ancient time. Because the removes all the obstacles (Vikkinam) which his devotees have to face he is also named and priest as Vikneshwarar the blesses his sincere devotees with divinity he is named as Kanapathy which means the is the head and superior of wisdom Yogasathira says that it is Kanapathy who being the high power of the region of human body he also activates the Kundalini Sakthi.

Vinayagar is of the Piranava form Piranavam denotes circle shape all the movements of nature is of circle round shape. There is no end for a circle, but all other shapes have an end. Kanapathy is in the shape of Piranavam. This is to show that site is the original source of all creations also the term and name Kanapathy devotes that he is also the head of all originals. This too gives an idea that Kanapathy is the original source of everything.

Vedam vividly explains God Shiva in 3 aspects as Muthal Idai and Kadai. It starts with the term “OOM” This OOM is dexribed as Pironavam. The shape of this is the shape of God Vinayakar. The form of Vinayagar illustrates that the 1st letter of veda is Vinayakar’s “Suththa Gana Vadivam” scholars describes this as “Kaivelamukam”. The same fact is dexcribed in Kanthapuranam as follows :

“Munthai vetha muthal Eluththalaya Enthai”
“Moola Muthat Porulaam Enthak”
and
“Tharakappirammana Makkaya Mukkaththu Vallal”

This is the source for God Vinayakar to be worshipped first in temples. This is what Sivaperuman blessed Vinayakar says Hindu literature books the 1st part of Piranavelu is at Chathva Vadivam 2ndpart is “Thandavadivam says Kamika Aakamam. These two parts (O + = -c) is known as “OOmai Elluththu”. “Moolamanu”, “Pillaiyar Suli” and “Mawnakkaram”. The circle (O) denotes Vinthee Sakthy, Dash or line (-) denotes Natham Sivam which means both Shivam and Sakthi in it.

“Moonamae Kuriyatha Muthal Eluththaruliya” says Kanthapuranam and Thayumanava Swamikal padal. To show that Vinayakar is of Piranava shape only, he is offered Mothakam, Thenkai (coconut) and Mathulam palam (Pomegranate) which are in round shape. Because he is of Sathvakunam he is also offered, milk, honey sarkkarai, paruppu and aval.

Vinayagar is the foam of God Shiva to destroy Kayamugaswaran who gave multi troubles and fortunes to the Devas.

To describe the appearance his elephant face, Bid stomach (Thonthi) sitting position.

For the purpose of killing Kayamugasuran, two right hands bearing Ankusam, left hands bearing Paasam and Mothkam and totally with 5 hands seated on Peruchcali his this is the entire holy appearance of “Lord Vinayakan.

Normally elephants have no big belly, but because all spheres and Sarasaram are compacted within the Oonkara Piranavam, Vinayakar’s is in the form of a big pot. His three eyes depicts Ichchai, Kiriyai and Ganam. The eye on his forehead, anything and everything ought to be seen by Paraganam his wide and broad eyes depicts that he is always ready and anxious to listen and hear all the requests of his devotes.

Also Vinayakar, holds the single horn in his hands which was broken during the Kayamuga Sangaram to show that, he destroys the three unwanted Aanavam, Kanmam, Mayai and saves his devotees.

The purpose of Vinayakar hold up the pasaankusam is to show that he controls the Anavamalam which misguides the souls from the beginning the ties up the Aanavamalam with the pasam which is identifiedas a rope.

Vinayakar also controlled and destroyed Kayamakasuran’s army soldiers and turned him into an invalid blessing it with pure knowledge and accepted it as his Vahanam (vehicle) here the Aanavamalm is person feed an elephant which Vinayakar controlled and saved all souls.

The land poet Avaiyar has composed VinayakarAkval praising the powers and greatness of Vinayakar in which how God Vinayakar removed all the sins of his devotees with his “Koodautham” which is as follows:

“Koodauthathal Koduvinai Kalainthu”

It is also necessary to mention here that Avaiyar is a stomach and the devotee of Vinayakar was blessed with wide knowledge by the same God.

During Vinayakar Pooja Aval, Pori and Prikadak are offered. These are all roasted and fried and not at all fresh similarly the sins births and evils of the devotees of Vinayakar will be roasted and erased and they will be free from them and will attain divinity. This is the inner meaning of the offers to God Vinayakar.

The spheres are in the shape of an egg. Pomegranate fruit is also offered to Vinayakar Kapperuman. This particular fruit contains small eggs shape seeds and the entire fruit is also a sphere in shape so this fruit continuing many round shaped seeds in one round in itself could be personified.

Obedience is very important in the way of piety and knowledge here there is no room for Aanavam or Ahankaram ex ‘self’ (Naan) All do not prefer flowers and leaves that are fallen on the ground for their poojas but Vinayakar Peruman perters Aukam which is on the ground always stamped by the feet of who walk on it. This makes clear that Vinayakar easily and with no hesitation blessed his sincere devotees. The Aruhu which we use for Vinayakar Pooja must be in one single stem with three sharp parts. These three parts will be jointly one single stem. This indirectly shows that if one wants come out successful in his endeavourshe must be clear and sharp in Manam Vakku and Kayam ie mind words and body. These three must be concentrated in one and single thought. This is own as Eakakkiraka Siththam.

When we pray Vinayakar we knock at our head three times, sit and stand three times; innermeaning of this is that one must control and have command over our Manam Vakku and Kayam in other words mind. Words and body, as if the top of a thread cannot enter the eye of needle if it is in disorder so are our mind words and body of disturbed will be obstacles on our way to success.

All flowers except Thulasi can be sued for Vinayakar Pooja details of this is given in this book under the title “Virathankal”

VAIRAVAKKADAVUL

God Vairavar is of “Thaamatha Jegam” in Saththuva Kunam is also known as “Sankararuththivar” Destroying all the Thaththuva Sampanthankal and receiving the souls is the appearance and foam of Vairavar his Kora fearful appearance depicts his Thamatha Kunam once Pirama Vishnukkal felt proud of themselves, and forgot even God his almighty. At that time Vinayakar felt pity of them the wanted to correct then so he got in to the fearful form, and polucked one of Bharamdevans head and sucked the blood of the other Devas till their pride subside and later, he blessed them. This incident happened in the Vairava Muhurththam.

As Vairavar from Shivam he is also called as Shiva Kumarar, but he is of Shakthi Vadivam which is inseparable from Shivam Dog is his which is depicted as Vedam itselt when we pray to him we beg and request them to protect us form pride. The by Gods of Vairavar also have the same name as Vairavar and they are also worshipped in temples and in their blessings the great God is present.

In the night when the Poojas are all over and when the doors of the Moolasthanam is closed the by Gods of Vairavar are offered Nivethanam. The duplicate keys of the Moolasthanam are handed over to God Vairavar. Because of this e is also called as the protector of the temple. It is accepted that Vairavar as the protector of the temple protects the same during the night time, from the evel doings of the Asura.

So the next day in the morning before starting the Pooja, the permission and blessing of Vairavar is very essential. So it is compulsory to conduct the 1st Pooja to Vairavar, get the duplicate keys from him and start the normal Pooja.

To describe the appearance of God Vairavar appears with red colour locks on head three eyes body of blue colour his for hands bearing Soolam, Pirama Kapalam Paasam, Udukku, Vachchira Thanthaukal, a smile on his face mixed with slight anger and Dog.

Which is described as Vedam itself. On the whole his appearance is of Horror.

Vairava Virathankal are said to be, Mangala Varaviratham Parani Viratham in the month of April and October. The Viratham (fasting) which is performed, starting from January first Tuesday to the last Tuesday is named as Mangala Vaara Viratham. The fasting performed in the month of April on Parani star Natchchaththiram is named as October Parani fasting i.e. the fasting performed in the month of October on Parani star.

All flower accept Nanthiya Varththam is suitable for Vairava Pooja. The food offering for item is Vadai Maalai.

The last Pooja conducted Vairavar in a temple and its worship denotes the release of the souls. After the worship the devotee can come and sit near the flag post and repeat the prayer Thothras mind voice once Thothras out of the temple to return home, he must touch the ground, pray and proceed home. The purpose of sitting and repeating the Manthiram or Thothtram inside the temple after worship is to give time for the God blessing (Arul) to abide on the body of the devotee. When the devotee comes out of the temple the natural sprits follow him and blesses him and give him a sendoff. So a devotee must stay for some time out after coming out of the temple. This part for chatting with others who stand outside. There is a valuable reason for that as mentioned above.

MURUKAKADAVUL

Murukan is known as Tamil Kadavul. Also he is described as Tamils Kadavul. Ancient Tamil books divided the lands into 4 divisions and different Gods were worshipped in each divisions.

Accordingly Murukan Belongs to Hilly areas. This division is known as Kurinchy and God Murukan as Kurinchy Kadavul, Kurichykkilavan and Malikkilavan.

The term “Muruku” means Ilamai, Manam and beauty. This is a proof to speak abovt God Murukan as always young. Thus say ancient Tamil literature. But Kanthapuranam gives a different story.

At present time all consider the history which Kanthapuram has given about God Murukan. the details is as follows: Asuran Soorapathuman and his battalions tortured the Devas and they made a complaint about this to God Shiva. As a result God Shiva created baby Murugan how? Shivaperuman from his 6 faces of ApethaMukam developed six sparks of fire, which were carried to Gangai River by wind and Agni. There what did Gangai do? It passed the sparks in to the Saravana Poykai under the shade of a Kadappan tree. At that time the six sparks turned into one baby. On the request of Devas the six Karththikaippenkal (Ladies) took the bay and wished to feed the bay. But how can all six of them feed single baby? To please them the single baby turned into six babies appeared on that spot with Umathevy and showed her the babies on seeing this Umadevy embraced all the six babies, and immediately they turned into a single baby with six faces and twelve hands. Thus Lord Murugan alias Aarumugan appeared to bless all living beings in the world.

“Aruvamum Uruvumahi Anaathiyar Palavaai Onrai
Pirammamai Ninra Sothy Pilampathoor Meaniyaahi
Karunakiour Mukankalarum Karankal Pannitendum Kondae
Oruthiremurukan Vanthaanku Uthiththnan Ulakam Uiya
By Kanthapuranam

God Murukan has many names each has its own reason. For eg. he is names as Kanthan, because of the reason that he is the joint of form of six babies, because Agni (fire) carried him in the form of six fire sparkles he is named as Agin Poo, because he was born in Gangainathy he is also named as Aravanabhavan, for he also appears in the Saravana Poikai and Kadamban, because the shade of Kaadappan tree, because he belong to Visaka star he is also called as Visakanm As Aarumukan and Shamugan because he is of six faces, because he is beautiful and young he is called Murukan and Kumaran, as he deeply settled in the heart of his sincere devotees he is called as Kugan, because he blesses his devotees with high knowledge and divinity he is known as Subramanian and as he preached about the meaning of Piranavam to God Shiva he is also called as Shivaguru Swaminathan, and Guru Moorthy and as he went as the head of Deva’s battle and killed Sooran with his Velayutham according to the request of Shiva Perumanhe is also named as Devasenathi Pathy and Velauthan when Murukan. After the Sooran by Murukan Kadavul Sooran continued fighting with Murukan in the two forms Cock and Peacocks. But that time Murukapperuma blessed both and had Cock on his flag and accepted the Peacock as his and thereafter he was also named as SaevatKodyoon and Maiyl Vahanan. Thus says the Puranas.

Murukapperuman is of red hue, red clothes, so he is also named as ‘Saayon’ his favorite and flowers are Kadambu, Bedchy, Kuru, Koothadum and Kaanthul.

He is fond of the following Music Kurinchy Nilam (land) Honey millet flour (Thinai) pleasant flavoured smake, Kuruvai dance and Tamil Language. Among the Aameeka. Religious books the following are his favourites. Thiruppukal Thirumurukattuppadai Kantharalankaram, Kantharanupoothy and Thiruvakuppu, Arunakirinathar says that his most favourite and appreciated piece is Thirumurukattuppadai, Seekalaththypuranam says that Murumurukattuppadai rather than hearing sweet word which can be compared to Sugarkandy, Amutham and Honey.

One Thanippadal mentions that Murukavels desire and statement as follows.

Urrukkam nal Vilukkulam
Ollukkam Ilaraenum
Thiruppugal padippavar
Manaththinil Iruppan

The substance of the above says is that, even a person is not good in his behaviors if he sings and enjoy Thiruppakal Murukavaal will abide in his mind and heart.

Muran’s special weapon is Velaautham. It depicts Gnana Kakththy (knowledge)

Murukans Daeviyar are Theivayaanai and Valli. Thevayanai indicates Kiriya Shakthy and Valli Ichchasakththy, Murukan easily blesses those devotees who are prideness; who are out of Akanthai Vallithiruman proves the above saying. Murukan’s conveyance peacock depicts Aanavam and the cock in his flagdepicts knowledge Murukan controls the peacock and sits on it. This shows and means that he is controlling the Aanavamalam guides the souls to reach a high stage. On his flag the cock depicts Shivagnanam. His cock makes the sound. Kokkarakko. The essence of this is Murukan kills Sooran who caused evils to Devar and protected them.

Aarumukam is the symbol of Panchadcharam (5 letters) which is joint with Piranavam. It also explains the Sithakaas Vadivam, which is found in full in North, South, East and West up and down. It also consists of philosophy of all six regions and other minute truths.

When and where Shivam and Shakththi join together and form into one, this stage is known as Supramaniuam. To be clear here too, there is also the six faces truth i.e the fifefaces of Lord Shiva and single face of Shakththy. This truth is said to be named as Aarumukam. The 6th face is named as Athomukam. To explain this term, this is the meaning of “Sitshakth” which is spoken as the 6th which is found.

What Nakeerar said as
“Anchu Mukam Thonril
Aarumukam Thoonrum
Indicates this Atho Mukam

Truth knowledge and happiness together are present in the Sachithanantha form of Paramporul. The three described as the presense of mother Father and Child in Puranas. The truth ‘Sath’ is considered as Shivam the knowledge “Sith” is considered as Shakthi and the happiness which denotes Inbum (Pleasures) is considered as Kugan and the union of these three is made felt by the entire world by the Somaskantha Moonththa Murukan the God of Nature His six faces, his weapon Velautham, his action of killing Sooran his wife with the two Devys Valli and Theivayaanai all these details and truth are clearly given in, Nakkeerar’s Thirumurukattuppadai, Kumarathanthiram, Kanthapuranam, Thiruppukal, Subramanian, Kumarakuruparar Swamikal Paadel, Sithambara Swamika Paadal and Pamban Kumarakuruthasa Swamikal Pirapantham,

In the so called Tamil Vedam Thevaram, Murukan is praised in the following ways with special names.

“Soorapanmavai thadi tha vel murukan”
“Nam senthil malya valli manalan”
Nam Kadamban”
Murukanatha perumaipakar
Muthukunru Adaivaomai”
“Thalai Mayil Earavan thathaiyoothan”
Maayachooran anraraththa Mainthan Thaathai”
“Saravanaththan Kaitholuthu
Sarumady, Saarntharkku
Ellam saranomadi” and
Ponnnai Mayloorthy Murukvel thathai”

Arunakirinathar is the one who helped us to sing Tamil songs on Murukan by us with Thamil Vetham. These are the so called “Thiruppukal” Kanthan and Anupoothy and Kanthava Karam. The number of devotees who attained Murukan’s blessings and feet are countless from that time up to day, Murukan is protecting and blessing all who have faith and belief him. The devotees are protected and blessed according to the faith and belief they have in Lord Murukan. The worries and sins of those who just shout and sing “Muruka Muruka” without any faith and belief in him will not be erased and they will not be blessed by Him.

The Aru Padai Veedukal, where Murukapperuma aides, blessing all his devotees who sing, praise and worship him are :- Parankunram, Thiruverakam, Thiruvavinan Kudy (Palani), Kunruthoradal, Thiruverakam (Swamimalia) Palamuthirsolai. The following thalangal are known as his special abodes. They are as follows:

Kanthamathanam at Kailaichcharal, Thiruththanikai, Vallimalai, Chennaikanthakkoddam, Kaanchikumarakoddam, Thirupporur, Mayilam, Thiruvidaikkali Sikkal, Eddikkudi, Vayaloor Viralimalai, Kunrakkudi Piranmalai, Kalukumali Valliyu, Thirumalai, Ilanchi thiruchchenkadu, Haruthamalai, Sennimalia, Kannadappirathesa Subramaniam, Eeleththu Kathirkamam, Mandoor, Nallur, Maviddapuram and Sellachennithi.

Murukan is none but Shivan as a youth says Puranas. This fact is mentioned is Thenikai Puranam as follows:-

Choor Muthalai Eruppa Aranae Ialaiyoon Aanavabettai and Kantha Puranam mentions the same truth as follows:-

“Arumukan Avanum yammum Paethakam Anrai”

The essence of which is both Shivan and Murukan are one and the same.

The Manthiram that belongs to Murukan is of six letters i.e Sadacharam “SDASARM” Nachchinarkkiniyar says that Kumarayanama are the so called six letters. Besides letters SA RA VA NA BA VA are also mentioned her.

The Suitable and special day for Murukapperuman is the month of Vaikais (May) Visakaster. On this auspicious day conducting Pooja, and Archchanai is Vilvam, Kasththuri Camphor, Paneer and other suitable offers and holy bath to Moolavar is essential and there devotee is blessed with Sayuchchiam. The details of this is given in Kumarathanthiram. Due to this the Theerthtotsavam in Murukan Temples takes place all most on auspicious day i.e. Vaikasi Visakam. Muruapperuman blessed Idumban who carried the two hill namely Sivakri and Sakththikiri as “Kaavadi a holy pole carried on the shoulders with offerings for a temple. This habit was followed by who take Muk Kaavadi to temples. This is done even in the present days. God Murukan accepts this kind of worship and blesses them to be in default Ka + Adi = Kavadi. This actually means the feet that protects those who surrender at God Murukan’s feet.

Kudai and Thudi are said to be the dances which Murukapperuman performed. Saivaist worship Murukan in the form of “Safguru”. Those who worship Murukan and Murukan alone are named as “Kawmanrar” Muruka Virathankal is also named as Subramania Virathanka the details of which are given under the above heading.