The Religious Perspectives in Devotional Literature

பக்தி இலக்கியத்தில் சமயப் பொதுநோக்கு

Abstract

Literature is a reflection of its times. Social motivations are the reason for the formation of literature, which mirrors the political and social situations of each period. Thus, religion and devotion, which were part of literature, later developed into separate literary genres. Although literature centered on devotion has emerged periodically, the Bhakti movement—a distinct movement based on the principle of devotion—grew to the extent of creating a separate period for itself in the history of literature, though it was primarily in the Tamil region. Strong social and political factors underpinned the emergence of devotional literature, which functioned as a Bhakti movement. The basic objective of this movement was to protect traditional religion from other religious influences. There was a need to restore the traditional beliefs, worship methods, arts, culture, and values of the Tamil land. Both Saiva and Vaishnava followers participated in this restoration effort. Initially, Saivas and Vaishnavites emphasized many principles that Jainism and Buddhism rejected. This characteristic can be seen in the Azhwar Nayanmars of the first period of the Bhakti movement. They attempted to unite Saivaism and Vaishnavism without directly opposing Jainism and Buddhism, viewing Shiva and Thirumal as one entity. In an era of philosophical conflict, ideological opposition, and religious confusion, the adherents of the Vedic religion made efforts to unite among themselves.