Alvars

Definition

Alvars are a group of Tamil poet-saints from South India who lived between the 6th and 9th centuries. They are revered in the Bhakti movement for their passionate devotional poetry dedicated to Lord Vishnu and his avatars, especially Krishna. Their compositions not only shaped religious practices but also influenced regional languages and literary traditions, contributing significantly to the evolution of Hinduism and its poetic expressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The alvars are traditionally said to have sung 1,000 hymns known as the 'Divya Prabandham,' which play a crucial role in the Vaishnavite tradition.
2. They hailed from various backgrounds, including nobility, fishermen, and shepherds, showcasing the inclusivity of the Bhakti movement.
3. The poems of the alvars often express deep emotional states like longing, devotion, and surrender, highlighting personal relationships with the divine.
4. Many alvar hymns were set to music and became integral to temple rituals, influencing worship practices across South India.
5. The alvars' work laid the foundation for later saints and poets in Hinduism, promoting a more personal and emotional form of worship that contrasted with ritualistic practices.

Review Questions

• How did the alvars contribute to the Bhakti movement and its emphasis on personal devotion?
  • The alvars played a significant role in the Bhakti movement by emphasizing personal devotion to Lord Vishnu through their heartfelt poetry. Their hymns reflect deep emotional connections with the divine, advocating for a direct relationship between worshippers and God without intermediaries. This approach resonated with many individuals across different social backgrounds, fostering inclusivity and inspiring subsequent generations of devotional poets.
• In what ways did the poetry of the alvars influence regional literature and worship practices in South India?
  • The poetry of the alvars significantly influenced regional literature by introducing vernacular language into religious discourse, making devotional songs accessible to a broader audience. Their hymns became integral to temple rituals, setting new standards for worship practices. The melodic nature of their verses facilitated musical integration into ceremonies, transforming how devotees engaged with divinity in their daily lives.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of the alvars on contemporary Hinduism and Indian culture as a whole.
  • The lasting impact of the alvars on contemporary Hinduism is evident in how their devotional approach has persisted in modern worship practices across various sects. Their emphasis on emotional expression and personal connection with God has influenced countless poets and saints over centuries, shaping Indian culture's spiritual landscape. Additionally, their works continue to inspire artistic expressions, such as music and dance, reflecting the enduring relevance of their contributions to both religion and literature in today's society.

Related terms

Bhakti Movement: A spiritual reform movement that emerged in medieval India emphasizing personal devotion to God and challenging caste distinctions.

Nayanars: A group of poet-saints in Tamil Nadu devoted to Lord Shiva, who parallel the alvars in their expression of devotion through poetry.

Vaishnavism: A major tradition within Hinduism focused on the worship of Lord Vishnu and his avatars, which is central to the alvars' poetry.