‘Paṉṉirunāmappāṭṭu� of ḻv ٱ岹ś-ūپ in Tamil Tradition
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: ‘Paṉṉirunāmappāṭṭu� of ḻv ٱ岹ś-ūپ in Tamil Tradition
ACTA ORIENTALIA is a journal focused on the study of Oriental languages, history, archaeology, and religions from ancient times to the present. The journal includes articles reviewed by a senior scholar in the relevant field.
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Jeyapriya Rajarajan
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: ‘Paṉṉirunāmappāṭṭu� of ḻv ٱ岹ś-ūپ in Tamil Tradition
Year: 2015 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.4452
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The article explores the influence of the ٱ岹ś-ūپ concept, as articulated in the Ahirbhudhnya-ṃh of the ñٰ岵, on the hymns of the Tamil poet-saint ḻv, specifically focusing on the ‘Paṉṉiru-nāmappāṭṭu� section in his վܱ⳾ḻi. It investigates the interplay between literary, philosophical, and artistic expressions in Tamil Nadu, particularly through the lens of iconography and sacred imagery related to the twelve forms of վṣṇ. The study emphasizes the connections between Sanskrit and Tamil traditions and how these have shaped the visual arts and religious practices in the region over time.
ٱ岹ś-ūپ: A Key Iconographical Concept
The ٱ岹ś-ūپ refers to the twelve forms of վṣṇ, which are systematically categorized in both Tamil and Sanskrit literature. The article highlights that both traditions arrange the twelve epithets of վṣṇ in the same sequential order, which underscores the shared cultural and religious significance. It reflects on the role of iconography in defining these forms, noting the unique color patterns and emblems associated with each mūrti. Additionally, the study suggests that the ٱ岹ś concept became prominent in Tamil art by the eighth century CE, further enhancing its cultural impact.
Interconnection with ḻv's Hymns
ḻv's hymns, particularly the ‘Paṉṉiru-nāmappāṭṭu�, critically engage with the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, reflecting profound philosophical and devotional sentiments. The article reveals how these hymns present a holistic view of վṣṇ's forms, intertwining their characteristics with elements of Tamil cultural identity and spirituality. ḻv emphasizes the divine attributes and narratives surrounding these forms, which serve not only as expressions of faith but also as pathways to understanding the socio-religious dynamics of his time. The hymns encapsulate a deep sense of devotion that transcends mere literary accomplishment.
Artistic Reflection in the Nārttāmalai Cave Temple
The paper further investigates the architectural and artistic implications of the ٱ岹ś-ūپ through the examination of the Nārttāmalai cave temple, where twelve rock-cut images of վṣṇ embody the concept in a tangible form. This site exemplifies how literary and philosophical themes have been manifested in art, showcasing the unique alignment of the iconographic representations with the descriptions found in ḻv's hymns. Scholars argue that the rock-cut images were likely influenced by the lyrical content of ‘Paṉṉiru-nāmappāṭṭu�, revealing a profound continuity between text and visual representation in Tamil culture.
The Role of Colors and Binaries in Iconography
Another significant theme in the study is the relationship between color symbolism and iconography in the understanding of the ٱ岹ś-ūپ. The paper discusses how color plays a vital role in establishing the identity and nature of each form, with specific colors denoting particular attributes of վṣṇ. While ḻv's hymnal references lack detailed color descriptions, the alignment with the ñٰ tradition offers insights into the broader implications of color within iconographic practices. This aspect points to a deeper connection between aesthetic choices and the theological tenets exuded through visual culture in Tamil Nadu.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the article presents a comprehensive study of the ٱ岹ś-ūپ's impact on Tamil literary and artistic traditions through the works of ḻv, emphasizing the innate connections between scripture, philosophy, and visual expression. It argues that ḻv's hymns not only encapsulate the essence of devotion towards վṣṇ's forms but also serve as a scholarly bridge to historical and artistic interpretations within Tamil culture. The exploration of iconography in the Nārttāmalai cave temple further exemplifies the living tradition of worship that interlaces literature and art, marking a distinctive layer of cultural heritage in South India. Continuing research in this domain is encouraged to unravel further parallels and insights across India and beyond.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the significance of ٱ岹ś in Tamil tradition?
ٱ岹ś refers to the twelve epithets of վṣṇ, crucial in Tamil ղṣṇ literature, particularly highlighted in ḻv's hymn 'Paṉṉiru-nāmappāṭṭu', showcasing the blending of philosophy, literature, and iconography.
Who is ḻv and what are his contributions?
ḻv was a major Tamil ղṣṇ saint known for his hymns. His works, including 'վܱ⳾ḻi', consist of 1,102 hymns and are pivotal in the devotional literature of South India.
What are the ٱ岹ś-ūپ as depicted in art?
The ٱ岹ś-ūپ represent twelve forms of վṣṇ, each with distinct emblems and characteristics, often depicted in art, notably in the Nārttāmalai rock-cut temple, showcasing their significance in Tamil iconography.
How do ḻv's hymns relate to Sanskrit sources?
ḻv’s 'Padinniru-nāmappāṭṭu' mirrors Sanskrit traditions, particularly from the ñٰ texts, arranging names and attributes of վṣṇ in a systematic order, highlighting the interconnectedness of Tamil and Sanskrit devotional practices.
What is the role of the Nārttāmalai temple in the study?
The Nārttāmalai cave temple houses rock-cut images representing the ٱ岹ś-ūپ. It serves as a significant archaeological site to study the iconography influenced by ḻv’s devotional themes and hymns.
What elements of art are compared in the study?
The study compares the iconographical features, such as colors and emblems, of վṣṇ in ḻv's hymns to those found in ancient Tamil art, illustrating how literature informs visual representations.
What philosophical themes are explored in ḻv's hymns?
ḻv's hymns explore themes of devotion, the nature of divinity, and the relationship between the soul and the divine, emphasizing bhakti (devotion) as a means of connecting with the sacred.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “‘Paṉṉirunāmappāṭṭu� of ḻv ٱ岹ś-ūپ in Tamil Tradition�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of History, Linguistics, Religion, Philosophy, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism etc.
1) Tamil:
The Tamil language and its literature provide a rich foundation for understanding the cultural and religious traditions mentioned in the Acta Orientalia volume, especially in relation to the hymns of ḻv.
2) Rajarajan (Rajan-rajan):
Dr. Jeyapriya Rajarajan is the author of the article 'Paṉṉirunāmappāṭṭu of ḻv ٱ岹ś-ūپ in Tamil Tradition' and provides extensive analysis and commentary on the subject.
3) Vishnu (Visnu):
վṣṇ is a central deity in Hinduism, particularly in Tamil ղṣṇ tradition, represented with various epithets and forms in the 'ٱ岹ś-ūپ,' discussed within the article.
4) Dvadasha (Dvadasa, Dvadasan, Dvadashan):
The concept of ٱ岹ś (twelve) is an important iconographic theme in the article, especially in the context of the twelve epithets for վṣṇ found in ḻv's 'Paṉṉirunāmappāṭṭu.'
5) Murti (Murtti):
In the context of the article, 'ūپ' refers to the various forms and embodiments of վṣṇ, especially the twelve forms listed in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ.
6) Lotus:
The lotus flower is a recurring motif in the article, symbolizing purity and divinity, and often used to describe the eyes and feet of վṣṇ.
7) Temple:
Temples play a significant role in the article, particularly the Nārttāmalai rock-cut temple, which features the twelve images of վṣṇ discussed.
8) Dvadashamurti (Dvadasamurti, Dvadasha-murti):
ٱ岹ś-ūپ refers to the twelve iconic forms or epithets of վṣṇ, an important subject in the article, particularly in its manifestation in Tamil tradition.
9) White:
White is one of the colors attributed to certain forms of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, reflecting various aspects of purity and divinity.
10) Image:
Images or icons of վṣṇ, particularly those found in the Nārttāmalai rock-cut temple, are a focal point of the article.
11) Rock:
The Nārttāmalai rock-cut temple plays a crucial role in the article, housing the twelve images of վṣṇ analyzed for their theological and iconographical significance.
12) Tiruvaymoli:
This is a significant hymnal composition by ḻv that includes the 'Paṉṉirunāmappāṭṭu,' which explores the twelve names of վṣṇ.
13) Black:
Black is one of the colors associated with various forms of վṣṇ, such as ś in the context of the ٱ岹ś-ūپ.
14) Colour (Color):
Colour patterns are essential in iconographic studies, with specific colors attributed to each form of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ.
15) Krishna (Krsna):
ṛṣṇa is one of the forms of վṣṇ and appears prominently in the hymns and iconographic representations discussed in the article.
16) Trivikrama (Tri-vikrama):
Trivikrama is one of the twelve forms of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, known for his expansive form that encompasses the universe.
17) Nammalvar:
ḻv is the Tamil saint whose hymns, particularly those in the 'վܱ⳾ḻi,' include the 'Paṉṉirunāmappāṭṭu' and are central to the article.
18) Cave:
The article discusses the Nārttāmalai cave temple, which houses the twelve images of վṣṇ, exemplifying the ٱ岹ś-ūپ.
19) Chennai:
Chennai is mentioned as a location where some of the works related to the articles and texts have been published.
20) Shridhara (Sridhara, Shri-dhara):
Śī is one of the twelve forms of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, signifying the Lord who bears the goddess Śrī (Lakshmi).
21) Govinda (Go-vinda, Govimda):
Govinda is a form of վṣṇ celebrated in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, often depicted as the protector of cows and connected with pastoral themes.
22) Foot (Feet):
The lotus feet of վṣṇ are a recurring symbol in the hymns and iconography discussed in the article, representing beauty and divinity.
23) Padmanabha (Padmanabh, Padma-nabha):
ʲ峾 is a form of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, depicted with a lotus emerging from his navel, symbolizing the birth of .
24) Narayana (Nara-ayana, Nara-yana):
ⲹṇa is a form of վṣṇ revered in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, often depicted as the preserver of the universe and highlighting his celestial aspects.
25) Damodara (Daman-udara):
峾ǻ岹 is one of the twelve forms of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ and is connected with Krishna's childhood where he was tied with a rope by Yashoda.
26) Flower:
Flowers, especially lotuses, play a significant role in the article, symbolizing purity and often used in descriptions of վṣṇ's iconography.
27) Indian:
The article discusses the Indian context of the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, particularly the impact of these traditions on Tamil literature and art.
28) India:
India provides the cultural and historical backdrop for the ٱ岹ś-ūپ as explored in Tamil literature and the Nārttāmalai rock-cut temple.
29) Alvar (Arvar, Alwar):
The Āḻv saints, including ḻv, are integral to the Tamil ղṣṇ tradition, with their hymns forming the basis for much of the theological discussion in the article.
30) Mind:
The mind's devotion and concentration are themes in ḻv’s hymns, reflecting the spiritual state required to connect with վṣṇ.
31) Worship:
Worship is a central theme in the article, as ḻv’s hymns and the iconographic representations emphasize the devotion towards վṣṇ.
32) Kurukur:
ܰܰū, also known as Āḻv Tirunakari, is the birthplace of ḻv and serves as a significant setting in Tamil ղṣṇ tradition.
33) Kesava (Keshava):
ś is one of the twelve forms of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, depicted with a golden hue and often considered the first among the twelve.
34) Vamana:
峾Բ, the dwarf incarnation of վṣṇ, is one of the twelve forms detailed in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ and is noted for his mythological deed of defeating the demon king Bali.
35) Birth:
The themes of birth and reincarnation are significant in the hymns of ḻv, with references to the cyclic nature of existence and divine manifestations.
36) Green:
Green, particularly emerald green, is a color associated with 峾Բ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, symbolizing fertility and growth.
37) Vittu:
վṭṭ is a rare term for վṣṇ, praised in ḻv’s hymns, indicating his widespread devotion among Tamil speakers.
38) Caturvimshati (Caturvimsati, Catur-vimshati):
The 䲹ٳܰṃśaپ refers to the twenty-four forms of վṣṇ, expanding on the ٱ岹ś-ūپ concept and including additional deities such as ṃkṣaṇa and ܻ𱹲.
39) Literature:
Tamil literature, particularly the hymns of the Āḻvs, provides the primary source material for the theological and iconographical discussions in the article.
40) Paripatal (Paripadal, Paripaadal):
ʲṭa is an ancient Tamil text that contains early references to վṣṇ worship, contributing to the understanding of his iconography in Tamil tradition.
41) Madhava:
is another form of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, known for his valor and beauty, often depicted with blue-hued skin.
42) Gold (Golden):
Golden hue is a color descriptor used for ś among the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, symbolizing his divine effulgence and purity.
43) Varna:
ղṇa refers to color patterns essential in differentiating the forms of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, such as golden, white, red, blue, and green.
44) Light:
Light is a motif in the hymns and iconography of վṣṇ, representing divine radiance and purity, crucial in understanding his forms in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ.
45) Lotus flower:
The lotus flower symbolizes purity and divinity and is frequently mentioned in descriptions of վṣṇ’s eyes, feet, and hands in the hymns of ḻv.
46) Madhusudana (Madhu-sudana):
Ѳܲū岹Բ is a form of վṣṇ who is known as the destroyer of the demon Madhu, one of the twelve deities in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ.
47) Iconography:
Iconography pertains to the visual representations of deities, particularly the twelve forms of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, as analyzed in the article.
48) Kannan:
ṇṇ� is a Tamil name for ṛṣṇa, whose form and attributes are described in ḻv's hymns within the ٱ岹ś-ūپ framework.
49) Delhi:
Delhi is cited as the location of the Sharada Publishing House, responsible for publishing various texts referenced in the article.
50) House:
The term 'house' may refer to a publishing house, playing a role in making seminal texts on Tamil literature and iconography available to scholars.
51) Pancaratra (Panca-ratra, Pancan-ratra, Pamcaratra):
ñٰ is a tradition within Vaiṣṇavism that significantly influenced the hymns of ḻv and the ٱ岹ś-ūپ concept.
52) Samhita:
ṃh refers to the compilations or collections of liturgical texts, such as the Ahirbhūdhnya-ṃh, which provides the basis for ٱ岹ś-ūپ iconography.
53) Lakshmi (Laksmi):
Lakshmi, or Śrī, is the consort of վṣṇ and is mentioned in the hymns and iconography, playing a significant role in ղṣṇ theology.
54) Sharada (Sarada, Sara-da):
Sharada Publishing House is a key publisher of texts referenced in the article, such as works on Tamil literature and iconography.
55) Nayaka:
ⲹ첹 refers to a period and dynasty known for their contributions to Tamil temple art and iconography, relevant to the sculptures discussed in the article.
56) Blue:
Blue, often represented as 'nīla' or 'meghaśyāma', is a significant color in the iconography of վṣṇ, associated with forms like and ⲹṇa.
57) Divyadesha (Divyadesa, Divya-desha):
پⲹś refers to the sacred temples mentioned in Tamil ղṣṇ tradition, several of which are associated with the hymns of ḻv.
58) Catakopan:
䲹ṭaō貹� is another name for ḻv, reflecting his revered status and contributions to Tamil ղṣṇ literature.
59) Hrishikesha (Hrsikesa, Hrishika-isha):
ṛṣīś is one of the twelve forms of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ, often depicted with golden attributes and associated with sensory control.
60) Vasudeva (Vasu-deva):
ܻ𱹲 is among the forms of վṣṇ in the 䲹ٳܰṃśaپ, extending the theological and iconographical framework discussed in the article.
61) Shritattvanidhi (Sritattvanidhi):
ŚīٲٳٱԾ is a significant text referenced in the article, providing comprehensive details on the iconography of վṣṇ and Śakti.
62) Silappadikaram (Silappatikaram, Cilappatikaram):
侱貹پ is an ancient Tamil epic mentioned in the article, providing early evidence of վṣṇ worship and influencing later Tamil literature.
63) Samkarshana (Sankarsana, Samkarsana, Sankarshana):
ṃkṣaṇa is one of the forms of վṣṇ in the 䲹ٳܰṃśaپ, often depicted in white, showing familial and martial attributes.
64) Pitambara (Pita-ambara):
ī峾 refers to the yellow or golden silk garment often worn by վṣṇ, symbolizing wealth, power, and divinity.
65) Vaishnava (Vaisnava):
ղṣṇ tradition focuses on the worship of վṣṇ and his incarnations, with significant emphasis placed on the hymns and iconography detailed in the article.
66) Sthanaka:
ٳԲ첹 refers to the standing posture prevalent in the iconography of վṣṇ, as seen in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ images at Nārttāmalai.
67) Shankha (Sankha, Samkha, Shamkha):
Śṅk is a sacred conch, one of the prominent attributes of վṣṇ, often depicted in his upper left hand in various forms.
68) Brahma:
, the creator god, is born from a lotus emerging from վṣṇ’s navel (ʲ峾), linking him closely with վṣṇ.
69) Pillai:
ʾḷḷ Lokācārya is a significant Ācārya in the Śrīvaiṣṇava tradition, who expanded on the theological principles found in ḻv’s hymns.
70) Emblem:
Emblems such as the cakra, śaṅkha, gadā, and padma are vital in identifying the different forms of վṣṇ in the ٱ岹ś-ūپ and iconography.
71) Padma:
Padma, or the lotus, is a significant symbol associated with վṣṇ’s iconography, representing purity and divine beauty in his various forms.