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 The first three Alwars, Poigai Alwar, Bhoothath Alwar, and Pey Alwar, are collectively referred to as the Mudhal Alwars (the First Alwars). They played a foundational role in shaping Vaishnavism by emphasizing the supremacy of Lord Vishnu, the path of devotion (bhakti), and the concept of divine grace. Their compositions form the core of the Tamil Divya Prabandham, consisting of hymns full of deep devotion and philosophical insights.

Each of these Alwars composed 100 verses, and their works are collectively called the Mudhal Thiruvandhadhi.

1. Poigai Alwar

Contribution:

Poigai Alwar emphasized the omnipresence and omnipotence of Lord Vishnu, portraying Him as the light that dispels the darkness of ignorance. His hymns are replete with metaphors, describing the Lord as the source of all illumination and a guide for seekers.

Famous Verse:

"வையம் தகளியாக் வார் கடலே நெய்யாக

வெய்யகதிரோன் விளக்காக எற்றிசையும்தான்

செய்ய சுடராழியான் அடிக்கே சூட்டினேன்

சொன்ன மாலை எய்துஇனிது சுவை."

(Mudhal Thiruvandhadhi 1)

Meaning:

"Using the earth as a lamp, the vast ocean as oil, and the radiant sun as the flame, I lit a lamp of devotion to the feet of the Lord who wields the fiery discus. The garland of words I offer is sweet and fulfilling."

Teaching:

Poigai Alwar metaphorically presents the cosmos as a means to glorify Vishnu, highlighting the unity of creation in His service. He establishes the concept of surrender and the joy of offering oneself to the Lord.

2. Bhoothath Alwark

Contribution:

Bhoothath Alwar focused on bhakti as the central means of attaining God. He depicted Vishnu as the source of love and compassion, accessible through sincere devotion. His verses celebrate the intimate relationship between the devotee and the Lord.

Famous Verse:

"அன்பே தகளாக ஆர்வமே நெய்யாக

இன்புறு சோதி இறைவனைச் சூழ்ந்து

தண்வளர் மென் மலர் தூவிவைத் தெற்றேன்

புண்ணியனே என் நெஞ்சுள் உள்ளான்."

(Mudhal Thiruvandhadhi 2)

Meaning:

"With love as the lamp, eagerness as the oil, and the joy of His divine light as the flame, I offered soft, fragrant flowers of devotion to the Lord, who now resides in my heart."

Teaching:

Bhoothath Alwar underscores the necessity of internalizing devotion. The Lord dwells within the hearts of true devotees, and love and longing for Him illuminate the path to liberation.

3. Pey Alwar

Contribution:

Pey Alwar’s hymns delve into the experience of divine realization. He speaks of seeing the Lord in everything, reflecting the ultimate state of devotion where the devotee and God become inseparable. His verses emphasize the Lord’s grace as the means to overcome ignorance and realize His omnipresence.

Famous Verse:

"திருக்கண்டேன் பொன்மேனி கண்டேன்

திருமணியான் செவடி கண்டேன்

செருக்கிளரும் பொன்னாழி கண்டேன்

புரிசங்கம் கைத்துடன் கண்டேன்."

(Mudhal Thiruvandhadhi 100)

Meaning:

"I saw the Lord adorned with Lakshmi (Thiru). I saw His radiant golden form. I saw His red lotus-like feet. I saw the shining discus in His hand, and the conch with its spirals."

Teaching:

This verse vividly describes the Lord's divine form as a realization brought about by His grace. Pey Alwar reveals the moment of spiritual awakening when the Lord’s presence becomes tangible to the devotee.

Key Themes Across the Mudhal Alwars' Hymns

1. Vishnu’s Supremacy:

All three Alwars emphasize Vishnu as the ultimate reality, transcending all dualities.

2. Devotion as the Path to Liberation:

Their verses highlight bhakti as the most accessible and fulfilling way to attain the Lord, surpassing rituals and intellectual pursuits.

3. Divine Grace:

The Alwars emphasize the importance of Vishnu’s grace (kripa) in removing ignorance and granting spiritual realization.

4. Unity with Nature:

Through metaphors of lamps, flowers, and natural elements, they celebrate the integration of the cosmos in the worship of the Lord.

5. Intimate Relationship with God:

The hymns reflect the deep emotional connection between the devotee and Vishnu, portraying Him as a loving protector and guide.

Legacy of the Mudhal Alwars

The Mudhal Alwars' hymns laid the groundwork for Srivaishnavism, emphasizing devotion, humility, and surrender to Vishnu. Their works, composed in Tamil, made the divine accessible to all, transcending social and linguistic barriers. Their verses remain central to Vaishnava worship and philosophy, inspiring generations of devotees to seek Vishnu’s grace through love and surrender.