The advent of Ramanuja is a landmark event in the history of theistic philosophy as it reinterpreted the profound thought in the scriptures and streamlined it for the benefit of humanity.
It is said that Vedanta Desika, the great poet and philosopher in the Vaishnava tradition, was once overwhelmed in the presence of the Archa form of Ramanuja and moved to the heights of inspiration by the preceptor's auspicious qualities and contributions to this tradition. The occasion was Ramanuja's avatara day and many learned scholars who had assembled entreated him to compose verses in praise of Ramanuja so that all of them could experience the preceptor's greatness. Thus was born the famous hymn Yatiraja Saptathi which reveals Vedanta Desika's infinite Bhakti to Ramanuja as well as his tremendous insight into the preceptor's philosophical works, said Navalpakkam Sri Ramachariar in a discourse.
Ramanuja, who was bequeathed the unfinished tasks of Alavandar pertaining to the Vaishnava philosophical tradition, intuitively grasped his predecessor's message and successfully accomplished them. Ramanuja's valuable contribution continues to impress and inspire many till date. It was a period when the true import of the scriptures was being submerged in the volley of other streams of thought, and much confusion prevailed.
He based his arguments on reasoning and logic to establish Visishtadvaita philosophy. He brought clarity to the philosophy and established the truth of the Upanishads without any ambiguity. This is evident in his works — the suktis, gadyas and other expositions that explain the scriptures.
His austere way of life inspired his disciples to follow the tenets in the Vedas. Above all, he showed the path to liberation — of surrender at the Lord's feet. This act of surrender will ensure that one treads the right path to attain salvation.
The term Yatiraja, meaning King of Sanyasis, coined by Vedanta Desika, signifies the quality of renunciation that stands out in Ramanuja. The hymn is a worthy disciple's tribute to a great preceptor.
