Om… Om… Om…
The boon of immortality and supreme wisdom,
The boundless power of Shiva’s consort,
The miraculous infinite siddhis and bliss,
Transcending delusion with rare strength and might,
Rising as the complete form, overflowing abundantly,
With the essence of Vedas and Agamas united,
Beyond my comprehension, in the heart of the divine hall,
The nectar of true wisdom, ever-dancing,
The pure essence of Sat-Chit-Ananda,
The divine nectar of supreme consciousness,
The blissful nectar, the luminous grace,
The boundless nectar of the eternal truth,
The flawless, crystal-clear ambrosia of divine states,
The deep nectar gathered in the realm of Shiva,
The unfailing nectar of compassionate grace,
The infinite divine nectar beyond reach,
Within, without, and beyond all—
Resonating in all four sacred spaces,
The supreme nectar, removing all impurities,
The unparalleled nectar of Chidambaram,
Even if it engulfs all worlds, it remains inexhaustible,
An infinite, magnificent, wondrous nectar.
May all beings attain the nectar of Shiva and become one with Him—
I seek nothing else, O my Supreme Guru!
Guru, I surrender… Guru, may you flourish… Guru, be my guide!
We extend our humble salutations and blessings to all the seekers of wisdom, like birds waiting to taste the nectar of knowledge at the sacred ground of the seed of truth.
Today, we will be discussing the profound wisdom found in the Thiruvarutpa, specifically the hymn Thiruvarutperu from the sixth Thirumurai, as revealed by Vallalar Peruman. Come, let us engage in a delightful discussion.
Shivayoga State
(A Prayer to Open the Door)
Vallalar Peruman describes the Supreme as a formless divine light, an eternal radiance of truth. In Tamil, the term tavam (penance) is referred to as yoga in Sanskrit. Many people are unaware of this connection. The essence of Shivayoga is to merge the inner soul-light within us with the divine radiance of God.
The infinite light of divine grace, known as Arutperunjothi, resides within us as the supreme soul in the form of Chidambaram. To attain this divine nectar of grace, we must seek the blessings of the all-powerful Siddha. However, the primary obstacle that prevents us from receiving this grace is the impurity of ego (Aṇava Malam), which veils our soul like a thick covering.
Only by burning away this impurity—this spiritual waste—can we open the door of knowledge within. Without unlocking this door, it is impossible to witness the divine radiance of Arutperunjothi within us.
O Lord Shiva, who resides as the supreme light within the center of my soul’s radiance, O the great cosmic dancer! If I am to drink the nectar from the Chandrakalasam (the moon’s divine essence) within my consciousness and rule your sacred Shiva world with grace, then you must burn away the ego that conceals my soul with the fire of your divine knowledge. Only by opening the door of wisdom that hides you can I truly experience your divine presence.
In these ten hymns, Vallalar sings with deep devotion—his body, mind, and very being melting in divine ecstasy—pleading for this sacred union.
Tiruchitrambalam!
O Lord Nataraja, the source of divine wisdom,
Only when I fully drink the nectar from the moon’s realm
Can I rule the sacred kingdom of truth.
O my Shiva, open the door of wisdom!
(Thiruvarutpa – Sixth Thirumurai, Verse 1296)
O our divine Lord Shiva! O the great cosmic dancer, who bestows the eternal and ever-new love-filled bliss of Shivayoga! Grant us your grace so that we may attain the supreme fruit of Shivayoga! Remove the barrier of worldly illusions that obstructs the path to divine wisdom. Open the door that conceals the supreme knowledge, allowing us to drink fully from the nectar of wisdom that flows from the Jnana Chandra (Moon of Wisdom) at the highest state of consciousness (Dwadashanta). May you bless us to establish the reign of Shiva Jnana in Shivaloka, immersing us in divine bliss.
Understanding the Madhi Mandalam
In the path of Yoga, Madhi Mandalam refers to the supreme consciousness that exists beyond the six energy centers (chakras), at the highest level known as Dwadashanta. It is here that the Moon of Wisdom manifests, and yogis partake of its divine nectar, experiencing profound bliss.
Key Aspects of Madhi Mandalam
- The nectar from Madhi Mandalam must be consumed fully to attain divine realization.
- The ultimate benefit derived from this process is the supreme bliss of Shivaloka, the realm of divine consciousness.
- If one wishes to attain an immortal body, free from decay, Shivayoga must be practiced to awaken the inner fire (Mulagini), allowing the nectar from Madhi Mandalam to melt, flow, and be consumed.
- By nurturing this divine energy through the power of Kundalini Shakti, one can attain a body that remains youthful, free from aging, and imperishable—this is known as the knowledge of immortality (Sagaka Kalvi).
Let us now listen to what Thirumoolar has revealed about this profound wisdom.
The life force (Prana) that resides within shall rise,
Expanding beyond this physical body, vast as the cosmos.
If it is lifted upwards, like a blossoming lotus,
The divine realm will flourish—indeed, it shall be so!
(Thirumandiram – Verse 817)
In the state of Brahma Jnana Tapas, when practicing the intense yogic discipline known as Sudharaji Tapas Yoga, the prana (life force) that resides at the base of the Mooladhara chakra begins to rise upward. However, for prana to ascend, the assistance of apana is essential. Apana exists in a liquid state, and it must be transformed into heat energy through Sudharaji’s fiery practice. Only then will apana transition from a liquid state to vapor. Once it turns into vapor, apana merges with prana, allowing it to ascend through the Sushumna Nadi. As this practice is continued, prana reaches the Sahasrara Chakra, where it comes in contact with the thousand-petaled lotus of the divine Shiva realm, enabling further ascent.
When prana touches the Sahasrara’s peak, the lunar realm of wisdom (Mathi Mandalam) gradually unfolds its petals, blossoming fully. Once the Mathi Mandalam is fully bloomed, one can attain immortality, sustaining life indefinitely. The only way to accomplish this is through Pranic Kriya Jnana Tapas, which is taught at the Brahma Jnana Golden Sabha Peetam. No other path can melt the Chandra Mandala (Lunar Sphere) as effectively.
The eternal nectar of wisdom (Nithiya Navanayam) refers to the indestructible Shiva Jnana (Supreme Knowledge of Shiva), which is realized through divine grace. The Mathi Mandalam in yogic discipline is the Chandra Mandala, which emerges in the Dvadasanta, a point above the six chakras starting from Mooladhara. The practitioners of Brahma Jnana Tapas receive the nectar from this lunar realm, which they consume in abundance, experiencing divine bliss. This is conveyed in the phrase:
“Mathi Mandalathu Amudham Vayaara Undu” (Drinking deeply the nectar of the lunar realm).
The benefit gained from this practice is the supreme bliss of Shiva’s celestial realm, which is expressed as:
“Pathi Mandalathu Arasu Panna” (Establishing divine sovereignty in Shiva Loka).
However, worldly desires act as barriers to this divine attainment. These desires are fueled by the egoic impurity (Anava Malam) that veils the soul. This impurity is metaphorically represented as a door, which must be opened to reach enlightenment, as conveyed in the phrase:
“Kathavai Thira” (Open the door).
The divine grace that aids yogis in this process is echoed in the words of Jnana Sambandar, who sang:
“By restraining the breath within the body, kindling the radiant flame of wisdom, and opening the remaining pathways, one attains liberation through the sacred five-letter mantra (‘Om Nama Shivaya’), which dissolves all obstacles.”
Thus, Shiva Yoga enables one to drink the nectar from the Mathi Mandalam, experiencing the supreme bliss of divine union with Shiva.
O Lord, grant me the nectar divine,
Eternal lamp of wisdom’s shrine.
My Guru, my King, to Thee I call,
Open the door, embrace me all.
O Eternal, Ever-Shining Lamp of Wisdom! You, who dwell in the divine hall of knowledge where the soul’s light glows! O Supreme Lord who rules this world! My Guru, my Savior, who claimed me as Yours from my early years! Now, in this very moment, I long to taste the divine nectar of Your grace.
That nectar of grace resides within the Hall of Wisdom, where You dwell. At the summit of that divine hall lies the sphere of enlightenment—the Moon Sphere, where the ambrosia of wisdom flows. But to partake in this nectar, one must grasp firmly onto the Eternal Radiant Lamp and reach the sacred hall of wisdom.
This Eternal Lamp is an indestructible reality within us—an ever-existing, immortal essence. The sages of ancient Tamil wisdom called it the True Substance, the Supreme Reality, and the Eternal Light of Shiva. Within this imperishable radiant gem, an undying flame burns—a luminous glow that never fades. This is symbolized in temples where an eternal lamp is lit in the inner sanctum, serving as a reminder of this wisdom.
To enter this divine realm, a secret method has been passed down by enlightened sages—known as the “Flame of Austerity” practice. This practice unlocks the gates of wisdom, leading the seeker beyond the physical, into the Hall of Divine Knowledge, where the Supreme dwells. Without understanding this, one will forever search—asking where the sphere of wisdom lies, where the Eternal Lamp glows, where the Hall of Knowledge stands, and where the gateway to divine realization is.
The three sacred halls of spiritual wisdom are:
- The Hall of Consciousness (Chitsabai): Located at the center of the forehead, symbolizing the seat of divine knowledge.
- The Hall of Gold (Porchabai): Representing the sun in the cosmos, where the truth of existence is revealed.
- The Hall of Supreme Wisdom (Gyana Sabai): Situated at the crown of the head, embodying the divine fire of ultimate realization.
Those who seek and understand this wisdom shall find liberation, while those who remain unaware will continue their endless search for truth.
To drink the immortal nectar of grace and rejoice,
O Lord Nataraja, surrounded by celestial beings!
O Supreme One, Transcendent and Absolute!
O Our Shiva, open the gates!
Surrounded by the divine beings of Indraloka, You shine as the Supreme One, the Absolute, the One beyond all. You are the source of eternal wisdom and light, the highest among all beings. O Shiva, our Lord, grant me the nectar of Your divine grace so that I may rejoice in its immortality. Open the gates of Your boundless wisdom and shower Your grace upon me.
Within the sacred Hall of Wisdom, where even the serpent kings and celestial beings gather in reverence, You perform Your blissful dance, bestowing grace upon all. To transcend death, one must partake of the immortal nectar. This nectar grants the body an eternal existence, free from decay. But we consume only perishable food, which binds us to impermanence. As long as impurity remains, the body remains impure. A purified body is necessary to attain the divine state, the luminous body of knowledge. Without purification, the dream of an enlightened body remains a mirage.
The nectar of immortality resides in the lunar sphere of the mind, but the nectar of divine grace is found in the realm of Shiva. Only through His will can one receive this grace. It requires His boundless compassion and blessings. Just as Manickavasagar sang, when we surrender at His feet with devotion and longing, He, as the compassionate mother and supreme grace, nurtures us with the divine milk of wisdom, leading us into His embrace. This nectar, the milk of grace, flows from the sacred source—our very own divine feet.
At the sacred shrine of Thiruvannamalai, the divine mother is known as Unnamulai Amman—the Mother of Unfed Breast. But is she merely confined to that place? No, she resides within each of us, manifesting as the sacred feet of the Lord. If the Divine Mother herself is our very foundation, how could Shiva withhold His grace? She, as the universal mother, intercedes for us, ensuring we receive the milk of divine wisdom. O Lord of Shiva, open the gates of wisdom so that we may drink the nectar of grace and rejoice!
The Octagonal Hall of Wisdom
At the front of the sacred hall, three entrances symbolize our two eyes and the space between our brows. Within, the Chit Sabha (Hall of Consciousness) is placed above, while the Porch Sabha (Golden Hall) lies below, representing different spiritual realms.
The sacred architecture of the Sathya Jnana Sabha (Hall of True Wisdom) was designed by the divine itself as a reflection of our own body and its spiritual essence. But remember, this external hall is only a symbol; the true hall of wisdom lies within. The Shiva Yoga scriptures serve as the guiding light to this inner sanctum. Only through the Sudarazhi Tapas (Luminous Fire Meditation) can one unlock the doors to the inner Hall of Wisdom. This makes it clear that self-discipline and meditation are essential to experiencing divine realization.
Within the first enclosure of the sacred hall, there are eight-pillared supports, symbolizing the body’s structure. Further inside, another eight-sided enclosure, followed by the inner sanctum, represents the profound depths of wisdom. Each enclosure is spaced eight feet apart, mirroring the measure of the human body.
The inner sanctum features eight doors and sixteen windows, symbolizing the twenty-four elements that veil the light of the soul. Only when one’s experience of life is complete and divine grace is realized do these twenty-four barriers open, revealing the radiant vision of the Divine Light—Arut Perum Jothi, the Supreme Grace-Light.
O Lord, the treasure of compassion, revered by those devoted to penance!
May I drink the cool nectar of Your boundless grace with love,
Free myself from ignorance, and live in joy and fulfillment.
O our beloved Shiva, open the gates of divine wisdom!
The word “Thannamudham” is used in multiple meanings, including “nectar of wisdom,” “cool wisdom,” and “divine grace.”
Instances where the word “Thannamudham” is used:
- In ThiruvararpU at Thiruchitrambalam, it is mentioned:
“I consume the Thannamudham, which exists beyond the seven levels, to elevate my life.” - Another reference states:
“Transforming the mind’s afflictions, removing the great illusion, resolving accumulated karma, and dispelling ego, the divine grace (Thannamudham) has been abundantly bestowed upon me.” - It is also used metaphorically:
“The moon is like a doll – in it, the light flows widely like Thannamudham.”
By transforming the mind’s afflictions,
Removing the fierce illusion,
Granting release from accumulated karma,
And dispelling ego,
You bestowed upon me the divine nectar of grace (Thannamudham) in abundance.
Oh Radiant One!
You granted me unwavering companionship,
Merged within me,
And stood as my Lord in the divine hall (Chidambaram).
(Thiruvarutpa – 6th Thirumurai – Verse 3865)
By removing the faults that arise in the mind, dispelling the illusion of worldly desires that cloud wisdom, severing the karmic ties that bind the soul, and eradicating the darkness of ego from within, Lord Shiva granted me the cool nectar of wisdom in abundance. He spread the eternal light of divine grace within me, bestowed upon me the everlasting companionship of devoted servants of Shiva, and merged with me as my Lord, dancing in the cosmic hall. Oh, what a blessing I have received!
Aṇḍaḷ’s Piḷḷaittamizh – Verse 162
The jeweled earrings sway on either side of the ears. Likewise, dear Āṇḍāḷ, you too shall dance in the golden swing! O Kothai, destined to be wed to the King of Puduvai! Dance gracefully in the golden swing and bless us!
Beneath the dense earth, betel trees have split the soil, taken root, and grown with sturdy bases. These trees have thick foundations and are covered with coarse bark, growing tall enough to form dense groves. These groves, along with fragrant sandalwood forests, rise skyward, piercing the clouds.
Amidst these groves, in the evening, the sacred birds known as chakoras drink only the radiance of the bright white moon, filling their beaks with the nectar of moonlight. Just as these birds drink only moonlight, young women with lips as red as the ripe kovai fruit and their beloveds partake in this divine nectar, granting them an ethereal glow and immunity from aging, much like the celestial beings.
The Nectar of Supreme Wisdom
O Lord Shiva, the embodiment of divine prosperity, worshipped by ascetic sages who pursue the supreme truth through penance and self-discipline! Please grant me the nectar of wisdom, the cool and eternal essence of divine knowledge, so that I may partake in it with devotion, free myself from worldly illusions, and live in the bliss of wisdom. Open the door of your sacred feet, which serve as the gateway to true knowledge.
Here, Vallalar emphasizes an eternal truth. Those who follow the path of supreme wisdom through penance and spiritual discipline are called Brahma Jnana Sages. Vallalar explains that these sages always rely on one great truth—the divine essence that resides in the sacred feet of the Lord. Only through this divine essence can one grasp the ultimate reality, the Supreme Being, and attain liberation.
Once this divine wisdom is attained, the three great impurities (mala)—egoism, karma, and illusion—disappear, allowing these sages to live in bliss. Therefore, if one wishes to hold onto this supreme truth, the gateway to wisdom, which is sealed by ignorance, must be unlocked by the Lord Himself.
Vallalar prays that just as the Lord opens this gateway for the sages, He must also open it for us. If we too sincerely pray, the Lord will unlock the door of wisdom, grant us the nectar of immortality, and bless us with eternal life. This is the profound truth that Vallalar conveys.
Thus, the nectar of divine wisdom (Sivajnana Amudham) is what continuously elevates one’s spiritual enlightenment. Understanding this is crucial, dear devotees.
Since the great scriptures declare that the nectar of wisdom, which is difficult even for celestial beings to attain,
Has now arisen, I have partaken of it—
O Lord of Chidambaram, worshipped by those who seek liberation,
O Supreme One, open the door of divine grace!
O Lord of Chidambaram, you are praised in song by poets who possess the ability to compose countless flawless verses. You are the Supreme One, adorned with all divine glories.
The great Vedas proclaim that the nectar of wisdom has arisen, a nectar so rare that even the gods find it difficult to attain. This sacred wisdom, which grants true enlightenment, is beyond the reach of ordinary beings.
I seek your divine grace so that I may partake of this nectar and attain the highest knowledge. Bestow your mercy upon me and open the door of your boundless grace, allowing me to experience the light of true wisdom.
The sacred scriptures proclaim that the Siddhas hold limitless power,
And for the virtuous, divine nectar is ever abundant.
Above the seven realms, beyond earthly grasp,
Exists the cool nectar of wisdom, untouched and vast.
It frees the soul from fleeting sorrow’s chain,
And grants eternal joy, untouched by pain.
Like ocean waves that gleam and rise,
It shines with radiance, beyond the skies.
A nectar beyond compare, so pure, so bright,
Housed in the mountain of supreme light.
O Flame of Truth, my guiding star,
You have revealed what and who we are.
The path, the purpose, the joy untold,
The way to bliss in wisdom’s fold.
With boundless grace, you poured on me,
The nectar of truth, so vast, so free.
You raised me high, beyond the night,
O cosmic dancer, Lord of Light!
O sacred cure, O boundless bliss,
O crown of Vedas, source of peace!
O Nataraja, in joy you move,
The Guru divine, my soul’s own groove.
Through Guru’s grace, divine light shone,
Through Shiva’s love, the path was shown.
And as the Goddess smiled so bright,
She fed me nectar, pure delight.
“O dearest child,” she said with glee,
“This is the grace bestowed on thee.”
With heart so full, with joy untold,
I drank her gift, the nectar of gold.
Know this truth, let all be wise,
This is the butter of heavenly ties.
Once consumed, the soul ascends,
And even death its power bends.
No tree exists without its seed,
No Siddha thrives without pure creed.
No Shiva stands without His might,
No Shakti glows without His light.
Abandon flaws, embrace the prize,
And let the soul in truth arise.
If the divine in kindness pours,
The nectar sweet of wisdom’s shores,
Then pain and sorrow fade away,
And knowledge blooms in endless day.
To those who taste this gift divine,
The Goddess smiles, the gods incline.
The heavens bow, the worlds rejoice,
At Kailasa’s feet, they find their voice.
The nectar of wisdom is so rare that even the celestial beings who dwell in the heavens find it difficult to attain. The great Vedas proclaim this nectar, and if I am able to partake in it, the wondrous light of supreme knowledge will dawn within me.
O Lord who resides in the sacred space of Chidambaram, a place revered by enlightened beings, I seek your grace. You hold the gateway to divine wisdom, and I implore you to open it for me. Only then can I enter and drink from the nectar of truth, transforming myself into one who is enlightened.
It is only through the attainment of this wisdom that I can forever remain at your sacred feet, devoted and immersed in your divine presence. O Supreme Lord, unseen by gods and beyond the grasp of scriptures, grant me the blessing to dwell eternally in the state of divine realization. Open for me the gateway to your boundless wisdom, so that I may merge with you and exist in the eternal bliss of Shiva’s presence.
The all-powerful essence, as scriptures proclaim,
A nectar divine for the wise to acclaim.
O Nataraja, in glory supreme,
Open the door to the blissful dream!
O Lord Nataraja, the divine dancer who bestows a prosperous life upon the righteous! O benevolent one, who shines in the sacred hall of Chidambaram! The Vedas praise and proclaim that the supreme wisdom, which grants infinite powers, is sought after by the enlightened. I, too, long to partake in this nectar of knowledge. I beseech you to open the door of your divine grace so that I may drink deeply of this sacred essence and be blessed with wisdom.
What happens when one attains this divine nectar? It grants all supernatural powers, without exception. Every great power, including the eight siddhis, is contained within it. This is not merely my assertion; it is the absolute truth declared by the Vedas, which are none other than the words of Lord Shiva himself. O Lord, I yearn to consume this nectar of divine wisdom! Enough of your cosmic dance in the grand hall—if you truly wish to bless me with an enlightened life, then open the door of knowledge. Let me step inside and immerse myself in the bliss of your sacred nectar!
The cool nectar that exists beyond the seven worlds,
I seek to drink and rise to a life of greatness.
O Lord of the sacred Chidambaram, who embraced me with love
And ruled over me—open the gates of divine grace!
O Supreme Lord of Chidambaram, who lovingly accepted me and ruled over my soul so that I may attain the true state of divine wisdom! The pure, cool nectar that exists beyond the seven realms—I seek to drink it so that my life may be uplifted and I may attain higher greatness. Bestow your grace upon me and open the doors of divine wisdom for me.
In this hymn, the “seven realms” mentioned have been described in another sacred hymn from the “Āṇipponnambala Kāṭci” (The Vision of the Golden Hall). If you listen to that hymn, you will understand what these seven realms refer to.
The “Vision of the Golden Hall” describes the divine experiences of Vallalar Peruman, who, through his intense penance, witnessed sacred light visions within his soul. He describes these divine visions as he experienced them—first seeing a radiant, luminous mountain, then a platform above it, followed by seven-tiered towers, a golden pillar, and above it, a temple made of radiant golden lotus. Finally, within that temple, he beheld the Supreme Divine Light as an effulgent golden flame, filling him with immense bliss.
These hymns express his overwhelming joy as he danced in divine ecstasy, singing in pure Tamil poetry. Through penance, we too can ascend to the divine realm of the Golden Hall, witness these seven realms of divine light, and attain the supreme grace of Shiva.
Here are descriptions of the seven realms as revealed in his visions:
- The First Realm: The first state of the soul appeared as a radiant pearl, symbolizing divine grace. Then, it transformed into the deep blue light of Shakti, revealing the nature of the soul’s divine creation.
- The Second Realm: As I ascended further in my vision, the divine energy first appeared as dark blue, then transformed into a crimson-red coral light, signifying the purification of the soul as it transcended ignorance.
- The Third Realm: In this stage, the divine energy appeared as an emerald green light, then transitioned into a deep red ruby-like radiance, showing the fusion of natural energy with supreme divine brilliance.
- The Fourth Realm: At this stage, the divine light resembled a great pearl, then a dazzling diamond, symbolizing the perfection of the soul and its transformation into a supreme state of divine consciousness.
- The Fifth Realm: As I reached this stage, my soul shone like clusters of red coral, enveloped in the brilliance of white pearls. This signified that my soul had become fire within and radiance outside, attaining the power of the sacred Om.
- The Sixth Realm: In this divine vision, my soul became a cluster of various colored gemstones, finally transforming into a radiant golden jewel, signifying its eternal, indestructible nature.
- The Seventh Realm: In the final stage, my soul became a flawless crystal, free from all colors, appearing as a pure, transparent light. It was within this divine radiance that I finally beheld the supreme luminous presence of the Divine Lord, the boundless grace of Shiva.
Through this journey of inner transformation, one can witness the supreme divine light and attain eternal truth. May we all strive to reach the divine vision of Chidambaram and experience the boundless grace of Lord Nataraja!
Above the seven realms stood a divine pillar,
A golden pillar in perfect harmony—ah! A golden pillar in perfect harmony.
To be freed from the sufferings of this lowly world and attain bliss,
I seek to drink the nectar of wisdom—
O embodiment of wisdom, O pure consciousness, O radiant light, O vast expanse!
O Divine Grace, open the door for me!
O Lord, who is the very embodiment of wisdom! The one who exists as the consciousness within all living beings! The radiant one, shining with divine light! The infinite expanse beyond all limitations! O Supreme Divine, who is the essence of sacred wisdom! Grant me your divine grace and open the door of wisdom, so that I may drink the nectar of enlightenment, rise above worldly suffering, and attain the supreme bliss of Shiva’s eternal joy.
To escape the miseries of this transient world, one must first break free from all forms of suffering. Only then can one truly taste the bliss of divine wisdom.
In this hymn, the saint describes the divine form of the Lord as wisdom, consciousness, light, boundlessness, and supreme divinity. He prays to attain the radiance of wisdom, the awareness of divine light, and the state of inner silence. Therefore, he calls upon the Lord to open the door of wisdom, so that he may experience the ultimate truth.
On the sacred Thirteenth day, the divine nectar shines forth,
As proclaimed in the scriptures for those who seek its grace.
O Lord of the heavens! Our eternal master! Supreme ruler!
O sweet nectar of the jeweled hall, open the door of wisdom!
O divine Sun of wisdom, shining beyond the tranquility of the twelfth stage, in the boundless realm of Thrayodasa! O supreme master, who graciously imparts the knowledge of the sacred path to attain the cool nectar flowing from the moon, as revealed in yogic scriptures! O our Lord, our master! You who dwell in the jeweled hall, exuding bliss like the sweetest honey! Open the door of your divine grace and bless me with your infinite mercy.
Understanding the Thrayodasa State
To grasp the essence of the Thrayodasa state, one must first understand the thirteen stages:
- Bhutha Nila (Elemental state)
- Karaṇa Nila (Causal state)
- Prakṛti Nila (Primordial state)
- Mohini Nila (State of delusion)
- Asuddha Maya Nila (Impure illusionary state)
- Asuddha Mahamaya Nila (Greater impure illusion)
- Suddha Maya Nila (Pure illusionary state)
- Suddha Mahamaya Nila (Greater pure illusion)
- Sarva Mahamaya Nila (Universal great illusion)
- Kuṇḍalini Nila (Serpent power state)
- Praṇava Nila (State of sacred sound “Om”)
- Parigraha Nila (State of absolute surrender)
- Tiruvaruḷ Nila (State of divine grace)
Beyond these lies the pure Siva state, also referred to as Sakti, space, presence, radiance, experience, abode, and transcendence.
As the great Saint Manikkavasagar describes:
“In the midst of Śiva’s vast expanse, lies the supreme bliss beyond comprehension.”
It is within these thirteen divine stages that the celestial nectar resides. O Lord, whom the Vedas revere as their essence, O divine ocean of grace, you have kept this blissful nectar safely within the jeweled hall of your supreme presence. I have now reached the threshold of this sacred door, longing to taste that nectar of immortality. Open the radiant door of divine wisdom, so I may enter and partake in the eternal life beyond death. O Lord, bestow your boundless grace upon me.
This verse expresses an intense yearning to drink the nectar of divine wisdom described in spiritual texts, which flows from the moon of enlightened consciousness. Through this, Saint Vallalar conveys his deep thirst for spiritual realization and liberation from illusion.
In the radiant mount where nectar flows,
On this earth, its taste my spirit knows.
O One, both single and infinite bright,
Open the gates to wisdom’s light.
O Supreme One, beyond words, the eternal Guru of wisdom! You pervade all living beings, existing as countless forms. O Lord, whose form is pure knowledge, who resides in the sacred hall of divine bliss! In the radiant mount of boundless peace, where the pure nectar of wisdom flows, I long to taste it even while dwelling in this earthly world. Grant me this grace—open the door of divine wisdom for me.
Since Shiva is the supreme truth, beyond the grasp of ordinary consciousness, one must attain Him without fail. He pervades all beings as the life within life, and realizing Him is essential.
Shiva, with His divine beauty, grants blissful vision to those who seek Him. Since divine grace is indispensable for experiencing the supreme wisdom and bliss of enlightenment, it is necessary for Him to bestow it. That is why the seeker prays, “O Lord, open the door to wisdom!”
Through this plea, we understand Vallalar’s deep yearning for the bliss of enlightenment. The one who embodies the wisdom body is none other than Arutperunjothi Andavar. Only those who have attained the wisdom body can open the divine door.
Thus, Vallalar prays, “O Wisdom-formed Lord, open the door!” The door was opened, and he drank deeply of the celestial nectar. Having transformed his physical body into a luminous divine form, he transcended death.
By renouncing all worldly attachments and holding fast to divine grace, we too can attain immortality, free from birth and death, just as Vallalar did. This is his divine song of wisdom!
I have seen and realized the truth,
I was blessed to witness the sacred doors of the temple open,
And I beheld the divine vision in its entirety.
Having transcended all obstacles, I drank the supreme nectar,
Through the radiant grace of the Divine Light,
I attained clarity, knowing all,
Becoming one with wisdom, I attained immortality.
My body cooled in bliss, my soul awakened,
My heart flourished, blossoming in divine ecstasy.
I became one with the essence of truth,
Filled with the ultimate reality, immersed in divine presence.
All mystical powers that remove suffering arose within me,
Everything became mine through divine will.
Indeed, all of this is but the sacred act of grace
Performed by the Lord of the cosmic dance!
From the day we are born, we consume food—starting with liquid nourishment and progressing to solid food. We continue to eat until the very moment of our death. Food is categorized into two types: Sattvic food, which is pure and wholesome, and Tamasic food, which is heavy and impure.
Plant-based food is one type, while meat or animal-based food is another. Between the two, plant-based food is superior for maintaining good health. On the other hand, meat consumption can be harmful to the body and hinders the growth of wisdom and spiritual progress.
However, regardless of what we eat, death is inevitable. As long as we continue to consume food, we cannot attain divine grace nor conquer death. The intake of food leads to the continuous production of semen (sukkilam). As long as this vital essence is being produced, death cannot be overcome, even if one practices penance, meditation, yoga, or awakens Kundalini energy.
The Teachings of Vallalar
Vallalar states:
“Those who remain attached to food and desire, will surely be taken away by Yama, the lord of death.”
In other words, death will naturally come to those who remain bound by worldly cravings.
The Need for Dietary Transformation
True Sanmargis (followers of the pure spiritual path) must change their diet. The food we currently consume is classified as “putrid food”, which results in foul-smelling excrement. Vallalar instructs us to stop consuming such food and transition to non-putrid, pure food.
He suggests consuming natural and pure substances like:
- Sugar
- Rock candy
- Honey
- Ayanenduram (a medicinal substance)
- Lotus ash
By gradually transitioning to such a diet, the soul and body will no longer crave impure food. This transformation leads to a pure body, true knowledge, genuine compassion, and divine love.
When we eliminate impure food, desires such as material greed, lust, and attachment to wealth will naturally fade away. All sufferings—such as sorrow, fear, and ultimately death itself—stem from impure, putrid food.
Vallalar further emphasizes:
“If one indulges in food cravings, even the highest penance will dissolve like tamarind thrown into a flowing river.”
Seeking Divine Guidance
In his sacred verses, Vallalar prays:
“O Supreme Guru who dwells within me, guide me to consume only what is necessary, nurture me with noble qualities, and elevate me to the highest spiritual state!”
For Vallalar, the Arutperunjothi Andavar (the Supreme Divine Light) was the ultimate teacher and guide. Only through constant connection with this divine presence can one unlock the true secrets of existence.
The main obstacle in attaining divine grace is the habit of consuming impure, putrid food. By replacing it with non-putrid food and transforming the body into a pure, divine vessel, one becomes worthy of receiving the boundless grace of Arutperunjothi.
With Moist Eyes and a Loving Heart, I Have Received Divine Grace!
O friend, my path is the deathless Sanmargam (the true, eternal path)!
You continue indulging in foods that are excessively sour, salty, astringent, and bitter,
Mixing them with spices, salt, and strong flavors, refusing to abandon them—Alas!
But I have partaken in the pure divine nectar,
Which grants freedom from endless cycles of birth and death across countless ages!
Good! We can continue the discussion and reflect further in the next discourse.
From the Brahma Jnana Golden Sabha Peedam,
Yours, Rudra Shivatha, Salem.
May all beings live in bliss!
Tiruchitrambalam!
