தமிழர் சமய வரலாற்றில் முருகனின் அறுபடை வீடுகள்: ஒரு விரிவான வரலாற்று மற்றும் தொல்லியல் ஆய்வு

The Six Abodes of Murugan in the Religious History of Tamils: A Comprehensive Historical and Archaeological Study

Abstract

In the spiritual, cultural, and historical evolution of Tamil Nadu, the worship of Murugan serves as a central force. Specifically, the Arupadai Veedu (six sacred abodes) of Lord Murugan are more than just places of worship; they function as "time capsules" showcasing the life values, architectural nuances, archaeological evidence, and literary richness of the Tamil people.

This article provides a detailed analysis of the history of the six abodes—Thirupparankunram, Tiruchendur, Palani, Swamimalai, Tiruttani, and Pazhamudhircholai—based on source documents provided by the user and other research data. The antiquity of these sites is explored through a range of sources, starting from the Sangam literature Thirumurugatruppadai to later works like Thiruppugazh, Puranas, and epigraphical evidence.

Furthermore, the article engages in a deep discussion of secondary and tertiary data, such as:

• The Dutch occupation at Tiruchendur.
• The Navapashanam science of the Palani hills.
• The bronze casting technology of Swamimalai.
• The Jain-Saivite religious harmony at Thirupparankunram.

The study elaborates on how 'Seyon,' the deity of the Tamil Kurinji landscape, evolved into 'Murugan' and explains how these six abodes symbolically represent the six stages of human life (marriage, victory, renunciation, wisdom, peace, and ultimate enlightenment)..