All great works are not the result of conscious dexterity, but have come into being through sheer divine grace. In them we find inspiration for leading an upright life and, in addition, the initiation to seek the highest of human goals (Purusharthas) — salvation, pointed out Sri Mathivannan in a lecture. For instance, Lord Muruga chose to grace Saint Arunagirinathar who then composed the exquisite garland of hymns on Muruga that came to be known as Thirupughazh. This sacred text is an ocean of infinite riches whose extent or depth remains beyond any measurable standards. What we gain from it depends on what we desire and on the amount of our individual effort. If the themes dealt with are encyclopedic and drawn from the Puranas and literatures, the poetic excellences of the hymns are equally unique. There is a remarkable blend of sound and sense in keeping with grammar, prosody, diction, rhyme, rhythm, etc. To top it all is the offer of spiritual upliftment to the seeker. We are drawn into the enriching experience of God by the soul-stirring hymns which philosophical discussions, debates or researches might have failed to generate in us.
The magnetic effect of Thirupughazh is manifest in the encomiums that saints and devotees alike have showered on it.
The hymns reflect the saint’s personal rapport with Muruga, but yet they carry a universal appeal of the individual soul yearning for the union with the Absolute Reality.
It has the effect of the power of Mantras which can help us to deal with and tide over the many unexpected, sometimes surprising and at times even the everyday problems in life. The devotional path is kept ever active by the Supreme Lord who takes many forms and reveals Himself to those who seek him sincerely. Muruga came in different forms to seek Valli who was steeped in His thoughts. God is drawn to His Bhakta and never fails to respond to his sincere yearning. Bhakti is thus the most efficacious in spiritual search. But it becomes effective only if God comes to you to reciprocate your Bhakti. God will lead us to Him.
Thirunavukkarasar states emphatically that he found the Almighty who remained elusive to the grasp of many including Brahma and Vishnu, within his own heart.
