Tamilmanam International Research Journal of Tamil Studies

In the history of Tamil literature, the Post-Sangam period is considered the renaissance era of moral codes and ethics. The Pathinenkeelkanakku (Eighteen Lesser Texts) collections composed during this period play a primary role in regulating human society and enhancing individual values. Among these, Sirupanchamoolam, named after a medicinal concept, holds a unique place.

Just as the roots of the five herbs—Kandankathari (Yellow-berried nightshade), Siruvazhuthunai (Wild eggplant), Sirumalli (African bowstring hemp), Perumalli (Indian nightshade), and Nerunji (Puncture vine)—cure bodily ailments and promote physical well-being, the five moral values embedded in each poem of this text eradicate the internal disease of human ignorance and safeguard spiritual well-being. Authored by the Jain poet Kariyasan, this work presents concepts such as education, discipline, charity, social responsibility, and impermanence through profound analogies. Notably, by emphasizing the Jain principle of non-violence (Ahimsa) and community welfare activities like water management, it serves as a practical guide for life.

The objective of this research paper is to comprehensively analyze the literary beauty, historical background, medicinal elements, and social ethics of this therapeutic text.