ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Tamil Śaivite Bhakti Literature: Devotion, Poetics, and Philosophical Underpinnings

Tamil Śaivite Bhakti literature, spanning from the 6th to 12th centuries CE, represents one of the most profound expressions of religious devotion in Indian literary history. This paper explores the genesis, evolution, and philosophical dimensions of Tamil Śaivite Bhakti literature, focusing on its poetic fervor and theological richness. It examines the contributions of key poet-saints, including Appar, Sambandar, Sundarar, and Manikkavachakar, and analyzes their hymns in relation to social reform, metaphysical thought, and artistic aesthetics. Highlighting the literature's enduring impact, the study demonstrates its role in shaping Tamil cultural identity and influencing later devotional traditions.