In the search for the ultimate truth, not all are able to tread the right path, mainly because of ignorance and the attractions of the illusory world that easily distract. In spiritual parlance, this is known as bondage and that it is possible to break free of this binding force only through God's grace is amply illustrated in the life of Thirunavukkarasar, said Sri A. Velayudan in a discourse. The trajectory of Saint Tirunukkarasar's life is one of vicissitudes and most unique is the way in which Siva graced him to champion the cause of Saivism.
Initially, he professed belief in the faith of the Jains and was known as Dharmasena. Though drawn by the practice of non-violence which Jainism stressed, he was also aware of the drawbacks in the philosophy.
During this time, his sister Thilakavathiyar prayed to the Lord to bring him back to Saivism. The Lord gave him severe stomach pain and all the efforts of the Jain monks to cure him had failed. He then took a decision to leave the Jains and seek his sister's help. She told him to surrender at the feet of Siva who alone is capable of relieving all pain — not merely the physical but also the intractable hurdle of spiritual lacuna. He was overwhelmed with devotion and he burst forth into the most moving Thevaram. It is said that Siva Himself conferred the name Navukkarasar — king of words — on him on that occasion.
The penitence that oozes in his heart (when he recalls his past life that was wasted in the Jains' way of life) flows as beautiful hymns. In a confessional mode he says he was poor then without a thought of Siva. When the pain tormented him, he felt the presence of Yama, the god of death. Now he is enriched with the love and devotion to Siva and knows that Yama can do no harm to him. Did not the Lord save Markandeya from Yama's clutches?
Over and above all, he is sensitive to the Lord's grace that conferred the gift of poesy on him. Worship of Siva paves the way for His grace. At the opportune moment God showers His grace on the deserving devout, rather, He makes them deserving to serve Him and sing his glory.
