நிவந்த நிலங்களின் நோக்கங்களும் அதன் காரணப் பெயர்களும் - கல்வெட்டு ஆதாரங்களின் அடிப்படையில் ஒரு ஆய்வு

Objectives and Etymology of Endowed Lands: A Study Based on Epigraphic Evidence

Abstract

There is no doubt that the word 'Tamil' itself represents the first language of the world. Tamil life encompassed not merely language, but every aspect of existence—civilization, education, culture, politics, society, individual dignity, economics, and astronomy—within the singular framework of spirituality. They considered the worship of the Divine and the act of making offerings associated with it to be the foundation of such a life. It could only have been the Tamils who introduced the practice of making such offerings in so many different forms. The objective of this study is to elucidate the purposes and underlying reasons for the endowment lands granted in this manner. Based on temple inscriptions, this study examines details regarding the purpose, donors, and timing of these endowment lands, as well as the identities of the recipients. Endowment lands have been granted for a wide range of purposes, including the maintenance of the temple's presiding deities and minor deities; the provision of food offerings and floral garlands; the upkeep of sanctums; the services of musicians and conch-blowers; temple renovation and construction works; medical services; the worship of attendant deities; the lighting of lamps; the conduct of festivals; the remuneration of temple staff; and the support of ascetics. The conclusion of the study also addresses whether any such lands, granted under specific conditions, still exist today. The objective of this study is to ensure that the current generation learns about the temples—which continue to reflect the greatness of our ancestors even after centuries—and the epigraphic evidence found within them. The objective of this study is to ensure that the current generation learns about the temples and the epigraphic evidence found within them. which continue to reflect the greatness of our ancestors even after centuries.