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Bhagavad-Gita:Chapters in Sanskrit

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(All 18 chapters in Sanskrit, Transliteration, and Translation.)

 

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  Sri U. Ve Velukkudi Krishnan Swamy

Proper way to chant Mantras:  

First you have to get panca samskaram under an acharyan and only then you become eligible to chant rahasya traya (Secrets three). Dvayam2 can be chanted always but not to be heard by others. Tirumantram1 during morning hours after bath and during tiruvaradhanam. Caramaslokam3 is not a Mantram. It can be chanted in the morning and not necessary after that.

 

Tirumantra1 is the temple of Bliss, Carama Slokam3 (BG18.66) the temple of flowers and Dvaya2 the temple of duty. --Yamunacharya.

 

Srivaishnava Mantras are passed down as secret to the deserving disciple by the Vaishnava Acharya during initiation. The disciple offers his surrender at Naaraayana's feet and the revered line of Acharya-Gurus. The disciple lives and maintains a sattvic life in accordance with Vaishnava tenets.

These three secrets reveal the absolute status of Naaraayana and Sri, and relative status of Jivatma; His JagatkAranatva (Primary Cause of Creation); His AudhAratva, being the supporter of the Universe;  Paramatma's ownership of Jivatma; Unity in Bimodality, Sri's inseparability from Naaraayana; His pervasion in beings and universe; Naarayana being the Hypostasis or Basis for all Chetanams and Achetanams; Naaraayana's Supremacy as Sarvesvara; Sesha's dependence and servitude to bimodal Seshi; Sesha's renunciation;  Removal of all obstacles in the service of the Lord; Sri's mediation on behalf of Chetanams; His Feet as the Means (உபாயம் = Upayam) to attain the Lord; Atma Samarpanam (ஆத்மஸமர்ப்பணம் = dedication of self = ஆத்மநிவேதனம் = Offering oneself) by the Jivatma to Paramaatma as Prapannan; simple means to attain Him without the need for cumbersome Yogas (Sarva Dharman); forgiveness of  sins; Exclusive surrender to Naaraayana only as precondition to Naaraayana's Grace; VAtsalyam (வாத்ஸல்யம்) by the Lord; Paramatman's feet as the Object and Goal of Prapatti and Surrender; Removal of all impediments to Moksa; Total Surrender as the guarantor of relief from grief.

Initiation of Ramanuja into Mantraratna (Dvayamantra) by a Sudra, Mahapurna.

Sriman Nārāyana charaṇau saranam prapadyē

Srimathē Nārāyanāya nama:

Page 13, Ramanuja's Teachings in His Own Words by Yamunacharya.

Ramanuja begged Mahapurna (a Sudra by birth) to accept him as his disciple and teach him all that was good for the soul. Mahapurna obliged,  initiated Ramanuja as his disciple with Mantraratna and ordained him to become the successor to Yamuna-Alavandar. He taught him Dvayamantra, which explained the dual nature of God as father and mother. Ramanuja took Mahapurna home, kept him there as his guest for six months, sat at his feet and learnt from him all that was to be known about Sri Vaishnava secrets and doctrines. 

 Page 17  ibid

Ramanuja came to see his guru Sri Mahapurna at his residence at Srirangam. In an attitude of veneration and humility he prostrated before his Guru and begged him to pardon for the insult offered by his wife. Purna said he never knew that there was anything to pardon. Ramanuja wanted to learn all about the Dvaya mantra (Mantra Ratna). Mahapurna imparted to Ramanuja the essentials of religion of Vaiṣṇavism viz., there is but one God. He is all merciful and is therefore our way. He is all-knowing and Almighty. The soul's end and aim is therefore eternal loving service at his holy feet. With these words Mahapurna directed him to Gosthipurna for further teaching.

Page 19-20: ibid

Initiation of Ramanuja into Tirumantra (= Mula Mantra = Om Namo Narayana) by Gothispurna

Ramanuja after 18 frustrating rejections was initiated into Tirumantra by Goshthipurna (Tirukkottiyūr Nambi) with the caveat not to reveal it to 'vulgar people'. Ramanuja in his compassion for humanity ascended to the top of Gopuram (tower) and announced it to all the assembled 'vulgar people' as characterized by Goshthipurna .

 The eight-syllabled mantra of which the first word is Om, the second is Nama and the third Nārāyaṇāyā (Om Namo Nārāyaṇāyā) is a pledge that man takes at his initiation into Sri Vaisnavism that henceforward he would live only for Nārāyaṇa and not for himself. The Lord (Bhagavān) and those who belong to God (the bhāgavatas) become the objects of his devotion and service. --Ramanuja, page 50 ibid.

Ramanuja says, "May I submit that it is but little sacrifice for one sinner to make, inasmuch as it brings salvation to many. Moreover all the merits of that wholesale salvation goes to you (Goshthipurna ), because of the holy secret, having been learnt from your great self. These reasons emboldened me to infringe thy holy command. It was compassion for mankind that rendered me blind to thy injunctions. I ask forgiveness."  Do with me, holy Sire, what thou wilt." Gosthispurna was struck dumb at this reasoning. And his own heart moved. "O, that this idea never entered my crippled heart," said he excitedly. "My heart, which would not ere (before) this be moved with love for all mankind. Strange I never felt the all-embracing love of Ramanuja.' Thus vehemently venting forth the new and strange emotions striving in his breast, Purna rushed forward and embracing Ramanuja continued :-"Holy son, thou art mine, My own indeed art thou. Thy name shall henceforth be Emberumānār (எம்பெருமானார்). The creed that I gave thee was hitherto known as the creed of the high Vedanta. But 'henceforth it shall be known to the world' as the creed of Emberumānār. Not only that which thou hast already heard from me shall thou hear from me. Secrets there are yet." So went on Purna, in the exuberance of his strangely awakened love for Ramanuja. Ramanuja stretched himself before his Guru, rose and left for Srirangam with his "Staff and Pennant".

Ramanuja initiates his disciples into Carama Slokam:  page 20-21 ibid

Ramanuja initiated Kuresa and Dasarathi into the final teaching (Carama sloka of the Gita), Ramanuja said to each of them "let every trace in thee cease of the three-fold egotism, which troubles mankind, that of talent, wealth and ancestry.

In the midst of many assembled disciples Ramanuja said : 'Do you see'? Dasarathi (தாசரதி) is now a changed person. If he had any notion of self-esteem before, it has disappeared now. What a transformation? Rise, Dasarathi: Thou art now qualified to hear high lessons of the spirit. I will reveal them at once." So saying, he communicated to him the essence of the Gita teachings, and exclaimed joyously, "Aye, Dasarathi, now indeed I may claim as my own, my staff and pennant".  (Ramanuja called his disciples Kuresa and Dasarathi his pennants.)

 

Naaraayana and the related features are described as follows: Sarvesvara; being JagatkAranatva ( being the Causal Agent); AdhAratva (being the basis and supporter of the universe); Niyantratva (being the Controller of the universe); Sesitva (being the Lord of the universe); AntaryAmI (Indwelling Soul); Sesin (Sovereign of the Universe); NityavibhUti  = நித்தியவிபூதி = the eternal abode of Vishnu--Paramapadam; Devadideva (God of gods); Ubhayavibhuti-nathatva (Lordship of transcendental and physical universe); Moksa-pradatva (the ability to confer moksa or liberation); Paratattva (Supreme Tattva); Sadguna Vishnu; Possessor of six qualities: Jnana, Sakti, Bala, Aisvarya, Virya, Tejas (Omniscience, Omnipotence, Strength, Sovereignty, Energy, splendor); Saulabhya (Easy accessibility, Affability); Sausilya (Gracious Condescension); VAtsaya (Loving disposition); Krpa (Compassion); Audarya (Generosity); Bandhutva (friendly relationship).

 

Narayana taught Tirumantram or Moola Mantram (மூல மந்திரம்) to Sage Nara. Vishnu revealed and taught Dvayam or Mantra Ratnam ( ுவயம் / மந்திர இரத்தினம்) to Mahalakshmi. Krishna Bhagavan uttered the Charama Slokam (சரமசுலோகம்) to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurushetra.

சரமசுலோகம் carama-culōkam चरम स्लोक, n. . Verse which teaches the means of attaining final bliss.

Man's ultimate Goal is Moksa or liberation. To reach Moksa, Swami Desikan (1268-1369 CE) advocated  Artha Panchakam (அர்த்தபஞ்சகம்) five Truths, principles or doctrines: Para SvarUpam1, Sva svarUpam2, Virodhi Svarupam3, UpAya SvarUpam4 , Purushartha SvarUpam5 (பர ஸ்வரூபம்1, ஸ்வ ஸ்வரூபம்2, விரோதி ஸ்வரூபம்3, உபாய ஸ்வரூபம்4, புருஷார்த்த ஸ்வரூபம்5 ). Swami Desikan dedicates these verses to Lord Varadaraja Perumal of Kanchi, the temple town near the present-day Chennai. 

 1) Para Svarupam refers to Bhagavan.
2) Sva Svarupam refers to the Jivatma, the embodied soul roiling in the sea of Samsara and who experiences and enjoys Bhagavan.
3) Virodhi Svarupam refers to the obstacles encountered by the aspirant to attain the feet of Bhagavan and Moksa.
4) Upaya Svarupam refers to the means (ways, paths) available for observation by the Mumukshu. The ways are mainly Prapatti 
Yogam and or Bhakti Yogam. 
5) Purushartha Svarupam refers to the fruit of Bhagavat Anubhavam experienced by observation of Upayams.

அமலன் அவியாத சுடர் அளவில்லா ஆராமுதம்
அமல உருக் குணங்கள் அணி ஆயுதங்கள் அடியவர்கள்
அமல அழியாத நகர் அழிந்து எழும் காவுடன் எல்லாம்
கமலையுடன் அரசாளும் கரிகிரிமேல் காவலனே.

The pure, the inextinguishable flame, limitless, incomparable Nectar
Pure qualities, sports weapons, .......

Amalan aviyAtha-sudar aLavillaa-AarAmudham

amala uru guNangaL aNi aayudhangal adiyavarkaL

amala azhiyAtha nahar azhinthu yezhum kaavudan yellAm

Kamalayudan arasALum Karigiri mERk-KaavalanaE

Tirumantram:

Om namo Narayanaya.

Om namo Nārāyaṇāya

Dvayam:

“Sriman nArAyana CharaNau SaraNam PrapadyE,

SrimatE nArAyanAya Nama:”

Sriman Nārāyana charaṇau saranam prapadyē

Srimathē Nārāyanāya nama:

As there are two sentences, it is called Dvayam. This is a tantrika mantra. Hence all can recite it, without any restriction. This mantra helps to do Sarangathi to Lakshmi Narayana. Sri Ramanuja’s Sararnagathy Gadya ‘is an elaborate explanation of Dvayam. Though there are eight words; while reciting, it will be six words only. In consideration of its deep meaning and non-restriction, this mantra is considered unique and is termed “Mantra Ratna”--jewel amongst mantras. For reciting it, there are no restrictions of any kind viz. place, time, person, sex, etc.

Sarama Sloka: Bhagavadgita Verse 18.66

सर्वधर्मान्परित्यज्य मामेकं शरणं व्रज ।

अहं त्वां सर्वपापेभ्यो मोक्षयिष्यामि मा शुचः ॥१८- ६६॥

sarvadharmān parityajya mām ekaṁ śaraṇaṁ vraja
ahaṁ tvā sarvapāpebhyo mokṣyayiṣyāmi mā śucaḥ 18.66

sarva-dharmān1 parityajya2 mām3 ekam4 śaraṇam vraja5
aham6 tvām7 sarva-pāpebhyaḥ8 mokṣyayiṣyāmi9 ma10 śucaḥ11 18.66

 

parityajya2 = abandoning; sarva-dharmān1 = all duties; śaraṇam vraja5  = take refuge; mām3 = in Me; ekam4 = only/alone . • aham6 = I; mokṣyayiṣyāmi9 = shall deliver; tvā7 = you; sarva-pāpebhyaḥ8 = from all sins. • ma10 = do not; śucaḥ11 = worry.18.66

 

18.66:  Abandoning all duties, surrender unto Me only. I shall deliver you from all sins. Do not lament.

This is what Sri Krishna told Arjuna and hence called ‘Sarama sloka’ (meaning as a last resort Verse). Sri Krishna himself has suggested that Sararnagathy is the easiest and best approach to Moksha. Charama sloka brings out the fruits of Saranagati.

Charama Sloka is the divine command to perform Saranagati; Dvaya Mantra is for chanting any time anywhere for performing Prapatti. Tirumantra is the condensed Essence of the preceding two Mantras.

Pranavam (Om) is the base upon which Namo Narayana finds expansion. Dvayam expands on Tirumantram. Charama Slokam expands on Dvayam.  Self is explained in Tirumantram. Once Self is understood one can go to Dvayam that explains the means. Charama Slokam explains the goal. This is the order in which the three Mantrams are learnt and recited. The three Mantrams encompass the self, the means and the goal.

1. Ashataksharam (eight-syllable Mantra) Tirumantram

ஒம் நமோ நாராயணாய

Om namo Nārāyaṇāya

Om Namo Naaraayanaaya

Om1 Na2 mo3 Naa4 raa5  ya6  naa7 ya 

The first and the most important is called Ashtakshara. This consists of 8 syllables and is in the form of three words. The first word is a single syllable Om. The second word is Namaha. The third word is Narayanaya. So, the ashtakshara is OM NAMO NARAYANAYA. This means "Salutation to Narayana". We will discuss the deeper meaning.

The following explanation is drawn from Desikan (1268-1369 CE). Sri Vaishnavas use ManipravAla Tamil, a fusion of Sanskrit and Tamil. They can speak in Manipravala Tamil from A to Z so much so only the person brought up in Vaishnava environment can understand them. Wherever possible I use common terms with bracketed Manipravala Tamil or vice versa. 

Example: Cit = Chit = (in Manipravala) ChEtanam.

Mantram is that which protects. man = to think, meditate. Tra = to protect or liberate. Meditation on Mantra protects and liberates the aspirant.

Tirumantram:

Om Namo Naaraayanaaya

Om = AUM. AUM written on paper looks like the dextrorotatory (வலம்புரி) conch  of Lord Vishnu. Here A stands for Narayana; U for Sri; and M for Chetanams (sentient intelligent beings). AUM integrates all three.

The Sanskrit Alphabet A is the truncated form of the verb 'Ava' meaning 'to protect'. Thus the protector is Vishnu or Naaraayana.  U is for Lakshmi or Sri, the Consort of Vishnu. M stands for Jivatma or the embodied soul or Chetanam, the sentient intelligent being. Jivatma M is of the image of Knowledge, sentient, intelligent and yet atomic. In the phenomenal world, knowledge contracts and expands depending upon his merits and demerits. Upon release, Knowledge is Ananda or Bliss. Narayana is the hypostasis, The Essential Indispensable Supporting Element or Basis (ஆதாரம்) of all that exists. Sri (His Consort) is His constant companion. We are called by the technical term Cetanams or Chetanams (§º¾Éõ), and form His body (Sarira = சரீரம்). The first letter A means Protection offered by Narayana and thus He is  the Creator of all and Sarva Raksakan (சர்வ இரட்சகன்), the universal protector. Akaram demands that we meditate on the Protector of all. Akaram = letter A. The protection that He offers is dependent on the nature and quality of the recipient soul in terms of spiritual maturity and attainment. For Samsaris (சம்சாரி = we the people, the unliberated), he provides food, shelter and protection from enemies. Mumukshus receive liberation from the bonds of Samsara and attain Paramapadam (Vaishnava Heaven, Vaikuntam). Bhagavan guarantees that the Muktas and Nityasuris do not suffer any interruption from rendering their service to Him and prevents them from falling out of Paramapadam. The 4th case Adimai («Ê¨Á = slavery) to the Lord (Seshi = சேஷி  = Master) remains hidden in AkAram.

Samsari = சம்சாரி  = he or she who leads worldly life subject to death and rebirth 

Mumukshus = முமுட்சு = the one who is eager for salvation and attained renunciation.

Mukta= முக்தர்  =  Perfected soul. Nityasuri= (நித்தியசூரி)  permanent resident of Vaikuntam or Paramapadam.

Bhagavan in connection with Sri protects us. Bhagavan and Sri are integral and inseparable duo. One without the other is inconceivable. Sun and its radiance are inseparable and so are Bhagavan and Sri and thus we are the servitors of Bhagavan and Sri.

Here is what Nammazvar says about Sri as being one with Bhagavan.

Nalayira Divya Prabhandam (NDP) Verse 3559 (Thiruvaimozi 6.10.10)

அகலகில்லேன் இறையும் என்று அலர்மேல் மங்கை உறை மார்பா!
நிகர் இல் புகழாய்! உலகம் மூன்று உடையாய்! என்னை ஆல்வானே!
நிகர் இல் அமரர், முனிக்கணங்கள் விரும்பும் திருவேங்கடத்தானே
புகல் ஒன்று இல்லா அடியேன் உன் அடிக்கீழ் அமர்ந்து புகுந்தேனே.

He (Vishnu) is of the chest wherein resides the milk-ocean born lotus-seated Lady who says she would never leave Him. You are of incomparable great fame. You own the three worlds. You reign over me. Incomparable gods desire the Lord of sacred hills worshipped by the Munis.  I am the servitor without a refuge, having attained and seated under Your feet.

(O God! You hold on you chest the Lotus-damsel You are of inimitable fame. You own the three worlds. You are my Ruler. You, of the Tiruvenkatam Hills, are the desire of the inimitable Munis. I, having no refuge, abide at Your Feet and attain refuge. )

அமலன் அவியாத சுடர் அளவில்லா ஆராமுதம்
அமல உருக் குணங்கள் அணி ஆயுதங்கள் அடியவர்கள்
அமல அழியாத நகர் அழிந்து எழும் காவுடன் எல்லாம்
கமலையுடன் அரசாளும் காரிகிரிமேல் காவலனே.

False knowledge and ignorance have cast us in the sea of Samsara (worldly life) because we believe that we are our own master. (The common saying that I am my own man is a false statement in Sri Vaishnavism. No one except Sriman Narayana qualifies to claim that medallion.) That is false knowledge and ignorance. We fail to recognize that Bhagavan is Sesi (Master) and we are Sesa (servitor). Claim of independence from the Lord is Ahamkaram and Mamakaram. (Ego and self-conceit = அகங்காரம்--மமகாரம்).

Everyday we talk about crossing the sea of Samsara for the express, intense and ultimate purpose of Moksa. What is Samsara? 

Here is the definition of Samsara in the words of Candidasa in Jaiva Dharma by ThAkura, page 173-174.

The jiva is an eternal servant of Krsna, but he forgets this and takes on a material body. Influenced by the qualities of material nature, he derives happiness and distress from material objects. For the privilege of enjoying the fruits of his material activities, he must wear a garland of birth, old age, and death.

The jiva sometimes takes birth in a high position and sometimes in a low position, and he is led into innumerable circumstances by his repeated change of identity. Hunger and thirst spur him to action in a body that may perish at any instant. He is bereft of the necessities of this world, and is cast into unlimited varieties of suffering. Many diseases and ailments appear, which torment his body. In his home, he quarrels with his wife and children, and sometimes he goes to the extent of committing suicide. His greed to accumulate wealth drives him to commit many sins. He is punished by the government, insulted by others, and thus he suffers untold bodily afflictions.

He is constantly aggrieved by separation from family members, loss of wealth, theft by robbers, and countless other causes of suffering. When a person becomes old, his relatives do not take care of him, and this causes him great distress. His withered body is ravaged by mucus, rheumatism and a barrage of other pains, and is simply a source of misery. After death, he enters another womb and suffers intolerable pain. Yet despite all this, as long as the body remains, his discrimination is overpowered by lust, anger, greed, illusion, pride, and envy. This is samsara.  

The Sentient Soul is different from Isvara and from 24 Tattvas (Prakrti, Mahan, Ahankaram, 10 Indriyas, mind, 5 Tanmatras and 5 Bhutas. Jiva is deluded into thinking that soul's own form is body, an aggregate of 5 great elements and the organs. It is worthwhile to remember that the soul is Jnana Svarupam (the form of spiritual knowledge), its attribute is Jnana and its form is subservient to the Lord and Sri (Divya Tampati = Divine wedded Couple = திவ்ய தம்பதிகள்) to obtain salvation. The sentient soul is Makaram (the M in AUM) and atomic in nature and size.

Once the Chetanam understands the meaning of Pranavam (AUM), all false knowledge falls by the wayside and one realizes that the Atma is not Sariram (body) but knowledge and is Sesa of Bhagavan dependent on the Lord for liberation. This will take him to Vaikuntam.

Alvar explores the dependent and servile nature of Chetanam or Jivatman in relation to Paramatman by everyday analogy. These verses are from Divyaprabhandam.

Mother and Child (688)

Husband and Wife (689)

Raja and Praja (690)

Doctor and Patient (691)

Ship and lone bird (692)

Sun and Lotus (693)

Nimbus Cloud and Tender Sprouts (694)

Ocean and River (695)

The Rich and the Riches (696)

Paramatma and Jivatma (697)

Verse 688.  Kulasekarar

Angry Mother and crying child  = God and His devotee

தருதுயரும் தடாயேல் உன் சரண் அல்லால் சரண் இல்லை
விரை குழுவும் மலர்ப் பொழில் சூழ் வித்துவக்கோட்டு அம்மானே
அரிசினத்தால் ஈன்ற தாய் அகற்றிடினும் மற்று அவள்தன்
அருள் நினைந்தே அழும் குழவி; அதுவே போன்று இருந்தேனே. (688)

O AmmAn of Vittuvakkodu (O God) surrounded by fragrant flower groves.  If it is not  for Your feet for the relief of my miseries, there is no other refuge. Though an angry mother rejects her child, the child counting on the compassion of his mother cries for her grace (solace); I am in a similar position with you.

Loyalty of the wife to her husband = loyalty of devotee to Bhagavan.

689: Kulasekarar:

கண்டார் இகழ்வனவே காதலன்தான் செய்திடினும்
கொண்டானை அல்லால் அறியாக் குலமகள் போல்
விண் தோய் மதில் புடை சூழ் வித்துவக்கோட்டு அம்மா! நீ
கொண்டாளாயாகிலும் உன் குரைகழலே கூறுவேனே. (689)
 

O the Lord of Vittuvakkodu surrounded by sky-scraping high walls. Though the lover is the subject of contempt, the good wife knows not any one other than her husband.  Having made me your slave and not given me the needed refuge, I will seek only your sacred feet for refuge.

Errant King and Faithful subjects

690. Kulasekarar

மீன்நோக்கும் நீள் வயல் சூழ் வித்துவக்கோட்டு அம்மா! என்
பால்நோக்காயாகிலும் உன் பற்று அல்லால் பற்று இலேன்
தானநோக்காது எத்துயரம் செய்திடினும் தார்-வேந்தன்
கோல்நோக்கி வாழும் குடி போன்று இருந்தேனே.
 

O Lord of Vittuvakkodu surrounded by fields with leaping fish. Though You may not turn your sights on me, I will not love anyone else. Though the king inflicts misery on his subjects by neglect, I remain like the subjects who look up to the Royal Scepter.

691. குலசேகரர்.  Doctor and Patient

வாளால் அறுத்துச் சுடினும் மருத்துவன் பால்
மாளாத காதல் நோயாளன் போல் மாயத்தால்
மீளாத் துயர்தரினும் வித்துவக்கோட்டு அம்மா! நீ
ஆளா உனது அருளே பார்ப்பன் அடியேனே. --691
 

O Lord of Vittuvakkodu!  Though the doctor cuts and burns (one's boil or flesh), the patient has an abiding love (for the doctor). Though You inflict  a heap of unbearable miseries on me by Your Maya, I will, as your slave, always seek your compassion («Õû).

692. குலசேகரர். The Bird on the mast of the ship plying the vast ocean.

692. குலசேகரரர். The bird on the mast of the ship plying the vast ocean.
வெங்கன்-திண்களிறு அடர்த்தாய்! வித்துவக்கோட்டு அம்மானே!
எங்குப் போய் உய்கேன்? உன் இணையடியே அடையல் அல்லால்
எங்கும் போய்க் கரை காணாது எறிகடல்வாய் மீண்டு ஏயும்
வங்கத்தின் கூம்பு ஏறும் மாப் பறவை போன்றேனே.
 

O the killer of the rutted charging elephant (Kuvalayapida), O Vittuvakkodu Amman!  If I do not take refuge at Your feet, where am I going to get redemption. I am like the bird perched on the mast of the ship plying on the high waves of the vast ocean, who flies out and returns to the mast again, not seeing the shore.

693 Kulasekarar  The Sun and the Lotus

செந்தழலே வந்து அழலைச் செய்திடினும் செங்கமலம்
அந்தரம் சேர் வெங்கதிரோற்கு அல்லால் அலராவால்;
வெந்துயர் வீட்டாவிடினும் வித்துவக்கோட்டு அம்மா! உன்
அந்தமில் சீர்க்கு அல்லால் அகம் குழைய மாட்டேனே.
 

The lotus bud blossoms out as the crimson sun rises and yet withers from under the scorching sun. O Lord of Vittuvakkodu, though You do not abolish my severe miseries, my Aham will not melt except on account of Your limitless auspicious qualities.

694. Kulasekarar.  Nimbus clouds and the tender sprouts

எத்தனையும் வான் மறந்த காலத்தும் பைங்கூழ்கள்
மைத்து எழுந்த மா முகிலே பார்த்திருக்கும்; மற்று அவைபோல்
மெய்த் துயர் வீட்டாவிடினும் வித்துவக்கோட்டு அம்மா! என்
சித்தம் மிக உன்பாலே வைப்பன் அடியேனே.
 

O Vittuvakkottu Amma!  Though it rains from the skies, the tender sprouts keep looking at the dark clouds.  Though my physical miseries do not leave me, I the servitor at your feet, will cast my mind on you only.

695 Kulasekarar. The Ocean and the River

தொக்கு இலங்கி யாறெல்லாம் பரந்து ஓடித் தொடுகடலே
புக்கு அன்றிப் புறம்நிற்க மாட்டாத; மற்று அவை பொல்
மிக்கு இலங்கு முகில்-நிறத்தாய்! வித்துவக்கோட்டு அம்மா! உன்
புக்கு இலங்கு சீர் அல்லால் புக்கிலன் காண், புண்ணியனே.
 

All meandering rivers find their abode (refuge) in the sea. Where else will they go?  O Vittuvakkottu Amma of the color of dark nimbus clouds! O Virtuous One (PunniyanE)! I will not take refuge anywhere else except immersing in your auspicious qualities.

696. Kulasekharar.  The Rich and the Riches.

நின்னையே தான் வேண்டி நீள் செல்வம் வேண்டாதான்
தன்னையே தான் வேண்டும் செல்வம்போல், மாயத்தால்
மின்னையே சேர் திகிரி வித்துவக்கொட்டு அம்மனே!
நின்னையே தான் வேண்டி ந்ற்ப்பன் அடியெனே.
 

O Vittuvakkottu Amman!, the wielder of the effulgent round discus. The immense wealth that I keep rejecting keep coming back to me. Your Maya does not accept me and I the Adiyen will stand steady wanting to refuge in You only.   Adiyen  = The One who serves at Bhagavan's feet.

697. Kulasekharar. Paramatman and Jivatman.

வித்துவக்கோட்டு அம்மா! நீ வேண்டாயே ஆயிடினும்
மற்று ஆரும் பற்று இலேன் என்று அவனைத் தாள் நயந்து
கொற்ற வேல்-தானைக் குலசேகரன் சொன்ன
நற்றமிழ் பத்தும் வல்லார் நண்ணார் நரகமே.

Vittuvakkottu Amma!  Though You want me not, I will not show affection to anyone else. I the spear-wielding king implore at His Feet and say that they who show proficiency of the the ten Tamil verses will not go to hell.

Om Namo Naaraayanaaya

One should realize that nothing belongs to you and everything belongs to Him including you (Chit) and the Achit. He owns us lock, stock and barrel. This is reflected by the word Nama in the Mantra.  Nama = (Na + Ma) = (No +Yes). No, you don't own anything; Yes, He owns everything.  Nama = ¿Á = Bowing, salutation, obeisance, reverence; வணக்கம்; நமக்கரிதல்.

Om Namo Naaraayanaaya

Narayana = Nara + Ayanam.

The word Nara (Na + Ra) means no destruction and indicates eternality. Ayanam is the abode, refuge, the means, the goal, the fruit, the hypostasis of the Naarams (embodied souls). It also means that Chit and Achit (Sentient and insentient or Chetanams and Achetanams) are the objects of His pervasion. He is the universal Pervader. He is Isvara, Antaratman, Antaryami, Antarvarti and Paramatman (ஈஸ்வரா, அந்தராத்மன், அந்தர்யாமி, அந்தர்வர்தி, பரமாத்மன் = The Lord, Inner Soul, Inner Guide, Inner Dweller, Supreme Soul).

Antaryami = Suksma Vasudeva. He exists as a subtle form in the spiritual heart of all beings. Upon physical death, Antaryami guides the soul through Murdhanya Nadi (Susumna Nadi) out of the physical body and takes the soul to Paramapadam.

He is the abode of Chit and Achit.

You have the right and obligation to perform Purushartam (புருஷார்த்தம்: தருமம், அருத்தம், காமம், மோட்சம் = dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksa). The embodied souls have forgotten to perform their obligation and chose to pursue sense pleasures so much so they accumulate Karma and roil in the sea of Samsara. Desikan advises to immerse oneself in Bhagavath Kaimkaryam (devoted service to the Lord) to obtain Moksam.

 Lexicon Madras University:

புருஷார்த்தம் puruṣārttam

, n. < puru- ṣārtha. Objectives worthy of human pursuit, four in number, viz., tarumam, aruttam, kāmam, mōṭcam; தருமம், அருத்தம், காமம், மோட் சம்

 

What is meant by Achit. It is Matter as depicted in the flowchart.

........................................................................................................................................................................................

2. Dvaya mantram  (two line mantra.)

ஸ்ரீமந்நாராயண சரணௌ சரணம் ப்ரபத்யே

ஸ்ரீமதே நாராயணாய நம:

“Sriman nArAyana CharaNau SaraNam PrapadyE,

SrimatE nArAyanAya Nama:”

Sriman Nārāyana charaṇau saranam prapadyē

Srimathē Nārāyanāya nama:

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau, Saranam Prapadye

Srimathe naaraayanaaya namah.

 

Charanau = feet

prapadye = Prostrate, fall down

namah = obeisance, homage

 

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau Saranam Prapadye

Srimathe naaraayanaaya namah.

 

 

Sriman  Narayana   feet  surrender  fall prostrate

Srimathe  narayanaya  obeisance

 

Sriman  Narayana, I fall down and surrender at your feet

Sriman Narayana my obeisance to you.

 

In the First Line the embodied soul (JIvam) invokes Bhagavan for protection (Rakshanam = இரட்சிப்பு = protection, salvation). JIvam: (ஜீவம்--சீவான்மா) is derived from 'Jivi' --ஜீவி --for eating or consuming; Jivam is the one who eats, meaning the embodied soul. The second line indicates the surrender of the embodied soul to Bhagavan and transfers the burden of protection, and fruits (பலன்) squarely on the shoulders (at the feet) of Bhagavan, known in this context as Saranagata Vathsalan (சரணாகத வச்சலன்).  வச்சம் = vatsa = calf. The embodied soul in Srivaishnavism is compared to the calf in relation to the cow. The cow soon after birth licks the calf clean; in like manner, Bhagavan forgives all sins of the Jivam and wipes his slate clean of all sins so that he can go to Vaikuntam. This cow-calf relationship known as Vatsalyam is akin to Sesi-Sesa (Bhagavan-servitor) relationship. Vatsalyam (வச்சலயம்) is the parental love. The entire burden of giving salvation to the Prapannan is in the hands of Bhagavan, once Saranagati takes place.

SrIman nArAyaNa charaNau = Sri Lakshmi, the auspicious Narayana- His divine feet
SaraNam =
take refuge (His feet are the refuge of Chetanams (souls) and the means for liberation.
prapadyE =
fall at His feet (We accept His feet as the refuge.), prostrate
SrImatE =
Lakshmi (and)  Lakshmi of the form mercy, and mediator between Narayana and the Chetanams
nArAyaNAya =
Narayana, the supporter and maintainer. aya = wishing an impeccable service.
nama: =
not mine. This destroys the attitude of "I am the doer, enjoyer, knower and the only devotee."

Dvaya Mantra has two lines and a total of six words.  It condenses a ten-point reference as follows:

  1. Goddess Lakshmi is the mediator between the Jiva and the Lord
  2. They are the divine couple, always together. (Divya Tampati = Divine wedded Couple = திவ்ய தம்பதிகள்)
  3. The Lord is of auspicious nature.
  4. His form is divine.
  5. His feet are the means of liberation from the world of Samsara.
  6. We accept His feet as the means of liberation.
  7. Lakshmi and Narayana are our goal.
  8. His control and power are inimitable, absolute an irrevocable.
  9. We worship Him.
  10. We destroy the inimical stance of “I and Mine,” the enemies of our soul.

 

 

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau, Saranam Prapadye

Srimathe naaraayanaaya namah.

 

The first part of the Mantram explains the Means (உபாயம் = UpAyam = Means) and the second part talks about Fruit (Palan = பலன்) resulting from employment of the means.

Dvayam Mantra can be recited by any one at any time. There are ten meanings with ten Padams or words. This write-up is based on Sadagopan.org, Dhvya Churukku (துவயச்சுருக்கு) and other sources.

The Ten words are Sri, Sriman, Naaraayana, Charana, Sarana, Pra and Padh, Prapadhye, Sriman Naaraayana, the 4th case, and Nama.

Dva in Sanskrit and Duo in Latin mean two and are cognate words. This Mantra comes directly from Bhagavan in response to the request made by Sri (பிராட்டி) to ease the burden of the Jivas (embodied beings).

(Piratti = பிராட்டி = Goddess = Here Lakshmi;  Female of Piran (பிரான்).   பிராட்டி = Lady, mistress; Goddess தலைவி. பிரான் = Lord, king, chief, master; தலைவன். Piran = God; கடவுள். பிரான்).

What is SAdhana: SAdhana is Jnana1 , Sravana2, Manana3 , NidhidhyAsana4 , UpAsana5 (Spiritual Knowledge1 , Study of Sacred Texts2, Contemplation3 , Meditation4 , Worship5), which are the UpAya or means to attain Moksa. This is also known as Bhakti Yoga. Prapatti is the easier alternative to Bhakti Yoga, entails complete surrender to God and is suitable for those who do not possess the ability or eligibility to perform Bhakti Yoga.

Commentators say that Nammalvar recommends Bhakti Yoga and or Prapatti for the spiritual aspirants as the means to attain Moksa. He adopted Prapatti as the means to attain the feet of Lord of Tiruvenkatam Hills.

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau  is the means. This invokes Bhagavan's divine feet for protection (Rakshanam = Protection)

Saranam Prapadye is the FruitHere the embodied soul surrenders at the feet of the Lord; thus the burden of protection falls at the feet of the Lord, who is the Saranagatha Vathsalan (சரணாகத வச்சலன் = surrender-The Man capable of Great Love = The God who offers Great Love to the Surrenderer). The responsibility now is in the hands of the Lord to free the devotee from the shackles of Metempsychosis and offer him salvation. One should remember that reaching the Feet of Bhagavan is the Fruit by itself.

 

Swami Desikan characterizes Dhvaya Mantram as the dawn after the KaaLa Raathri காள இராத்திரி = Black Night) and the Sararnagathy Mantram of the Lord.  The Mantram offers both Means and the Object of attainment (UpAyam and UpEyam =உபாயம்--உபேயம்).  When the Black Night ends, we get the Dawn of Realization.

                                                                                                                            

Dhvayam has the distinction of being the King of mantras (Mantrarajam -மந்திரராஜம்).  The mantra has to be obtained from an Acharya as Upadesam (உபதேசம் = initialization, communication of initiatory Mantra). Once Saranagathy is made and initiatory Mantra was received, the Prapannan should act like a Krutha Kruthyan (One who done (has fulfilled), what he is supposed to do).

The Prapannan (பிரபன்னன் = He who accepts God as his sole refuge) should do Atma Samarpanam (ஆத்ம சமர்ப்பணம்), dedication of his soul to the Lord.

 

The birth of Dhvaya Mantra

The Mother (Piratti, Maha Lakshmi, Consort of Vishnu) could not bear to see the miseries of the Chetanams (embodied sentient souls) in the sea of Samsara and therefore upon request from Her, the Lord revealed the Dhvaya Mantra to the Chetanams. Since He formulated the mantras at the instance of Mother, it is superior to all Srutis. The Mantra contains 10 meanings. Desikan characterizes Lakshmi, the Mother Goddess as "Innamuthil PiranthAL --இன் அமுதில் பிறந்தாள்  " the One born of Ambrosia" meaning that she took birth in the causal milk ocean churned for Nectar of immortality. The Lord is characterized as PeNNamudhu uNDa PerumAn (பெண்ணமுது உண்ட பெருமான்) meaning that He is Peruman, the imbiber of the Feminine Nectar. (¦ÀÕÁ¡ý = Great or Noble Person or God.). Desikan says that the Lord put two words from Katha Upanishad together and formulated the Mantra. Desikan adds: தன் உரை மிக்க தனம் என தந்தான் (he gave His best and the highest wealth and gift).

He offered the Mantra as His gift to humanity and everlasting (wealth that will never be lost--தொலயா நிதி) weal and wealth to all.

The six meanings of "Sri" Sound

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau, Saranam Prapadye

Srimathe naaraayanaaya namah.

Sri Sabdam  has six separate meanings: Sreeyathe, Srayathe, Srunothi, Sravayathi, Srunathi and Sreenathi.  Sabdam = sound, word.

 Here is a comparative interpretation of  the meaning of Sri.

srivaishnavan.com

Sadagopan.org

1) SRNATI = Nikhilan dosan = Sri removes all sins.

1) SruNAthi: ஸ்ருணாதி. SruNAthi: She banishes. She banishes the Moksha VirOdhis for the Mumukshus (Those who desire Moksham). Virodhi = enemy.

2) SRINATI = cagunair jagat = Sri nourishes the world by Her virtues.

2) SreeNAthi: ஸ்ரீணாதி. SreeNAthi: She makes the jeevans attain a ripe stage fit to qualify for Moksham. She perfects the ChEtanam to perform Kaimkaryam for Her Lord.

3) SRIYATE = caakhilair nityam = Sri is resorted to by all beings forever.

3) Sreeyathe: ஸ்ரீயதே: SreeyathE: She is reached by all those, who want ujjeevanam (upliftment) from SamsAric sorrows.

4) SRAYATE = PARAMAPADAM = Sri stays in the Highest abode.

4) SrayathE: ஸ்ரயதே: SrayathE: To save her suffering children, she approaches Her Lord.

5) SRNOTI = Sri hears the petitions. 

5) SruNothi: ஸ்ருணோதி. SruNOthi: She listens to the chEthanams who pray to her to place them at the sacred feet of Her Lord.

6) SRAVAYATI = Sri makes the Lord hear.

6) SrAvayathi: ஸ்ராவயதி. SrAvayathi: She makes the Lord listen to Her regarding the sufferings of the jeevans.

Kaimkaryam  = கயிங்கரியம் ¨¸Â¢í¸¡¢Âõ alternate spelling கயிங்கரியம் = Service to Bhagavan.  கை = hand. Kaimkaryam is what is done by hand, mind and soul of the aspirant.

Sri is the mediator between Chetanams and Bhagavan and so is called Purushakara. In the Acharya Parampara, Sriman Narayana is the First Acharya; 2nd is Sri Herself; 3rd is Vishvaksena. Other Acharyas come later.

µ÷ ¯Â¢Ã¡ö ¿¢ýÈ ´ñ  þýÀ ͼ÷ ¯Õò¾É¢Öõ

§À÷ ¯ÕÅò¾¢Öõ À¢ý «¾¢ø §¾¡üÚõ ¯Õì¸Ç¢Öõ

µ÷ ¯ÕÅ¡É ¯Ä¸¢Öõ  ²üÌõ ¯Õì¸Ç¢É¡ø

§ºÕ¾ø ÁýÛ ¦ºö¡û «ýÀ÷ ¿õ ÁÉõ §º÷ó¾É§Ã. (3)

µ÷ ¯Â¢Ã¡ö ¿¢ýÈ¡÷ = 'He (Bhagavan) stood as Life' meaning He is the One Inner Abider in sentient beings and insentient objects. ´ñ  þýÀ ͼ÷ = One Effulgent Bliss Form. ²üÌõ ¯Õì¸Ç¢É¡ø §ºÕ¾ø ÁýÛ ¦ºö¡û = In all His Assumed Forms, Sri assumed appropriate complementary forms.  «ýÀ÷ ¿õ ÁÉõ §º÷ó¾É§Ã = The dear One (Sri) abides in our heart, (mind and soul). (Just a diversion: The poetical Tamil ´ñ sounds similar to One in English, meaning one.)

He is Inner Abider in all Chetanams and Achetanams. He abides as the effulgent Bliss Form. He is of many forms. He is of the Jnana form. He has the world and the souls as His body. Sri is the constant companion of Baghavan in all His forms. He has taken his abode in our heart and mind.

Sriman means also the husband of Sri. Just an aid to remember: Who is the Man of Sri?  Her Man is Naaraayana. Or Naaraayana is Sri's Husband or Consort. Remember that Lord Vishnu was the Original Man, Purusha.

The meaning of Naaraayana

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau, Saranam Prapadye

Srimathe naaraayanaaya namah.

¸¡Ã½Á¡ö  þ¨Ã¡¡öì  ¸¾¢Â¡ö  «ÁÕõ  À¾¢Â¡ö

¬Ã½õ  µÐõ  «¨ÉòÐÈÅ¡ö  «¸Ä¡  ¯Â¢Ã¡öî

º£÷  «½¢Ôõ ͼáöî  ¦ºÈ¢óР ±íÌõ  ¾¢¸úóР ¿¢ýÈ

¿¡Ã½É¡÷  ¿Á측ö  ¿ø¸¢  ¿¡õ  ¦¾¡Æ  ¿¢ýÈɧÃ.  (4)

The word Naaraayana: It has two meanings. He is the Causal Agent (¸¡Ã½õ) of all living beings (Janthu = ºóÐ). Naaram = ¿¡Ãõ = water; living beings, souls. Naaram (¿¡Ãõ) = The living beings born of Naran (¿Ãý = ¿Ãõ = literal meaning is human being; in this context it means Bhagavan).  Naaraayana = Vishnu reposing in waters. (Just remember that we are Naaram (water) because 60-70% of our body is made of water.)  Naaraayana is the One who moves in Causal Waters. He is the One who is the abode of Causal Waters.

The second meaning of Naaraayana is that He is the Ruler of all.

aayana ¬Â½ as in Naaraayana) literally means repose and according Vaishnava Acharyas means ¯À¡Âõ, ÀÄý, and ¬¾¡Ãõ (Means, Fruit, Hypostasis or Base).

Thus Naaraayana is the Lord and becomes the Means and the Goal for all, who subside in the Divine Repository (Base).

The meaning of Charana

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau, Saranam Prapadye

Srimathe naaraayanaaya namah.

 

 

Å¡ý  «Á÷  Áý  ¯ÕÅ¡ö  Ũ¸Â¡ø  «¾¢ø  ¿¡ÖÕÅ¡ö

Á£ÉÁР ¬¨Á  §¸Æø  Ӿġõ  Å¢ÀÅí¸ÙÁ¡ö

°ÉÁ÷  ¯ûÙÕÅ¡ö  ´Ç¢Â¡¾  «ÕÔÁ¡õ

§¾ÉÁ÷  ¦ºí¸ÆÄ¡ý  §º÷ò¾Éý  ¸Æø  ±ý  ÁÉò§¾. (5)

 

Charanau = ºÃ½ = foot. This refers to the Holy feet of Bhagavan and also the Divine Auspicious Form (¾¢ù Áí¸Ç Ţ츢øõ).  Here Form means His body.

 

1) Å¡ý  «Á÷  Áý  ¯ÕÅ¡ö  Å¨¸Â¡ø  «¾¢ø  ¿¡ÖÕÅ¡ö =

Å¡ý  «Á÷  Áý  ¯ÕÅý = Bhagavan possessed of the Form in the Abode of gods, Vaikuntam or Paramapadam. Para Vasudeva in Sri Vaikuntam. This is Para Form -- Supreme Form--Para Vasudeva in Vaikuntam.

 

2) Å¡ý  «Á÷  Áý  ¯ÕÅ¡ö  Å¨¸Â¡ø  «¾¢ø  ¿¡ÖÕÅ¡ö = This refers to the four forms, generally known as Vyuha manifestation. See the flowchart below. The foursome are Vasudeva, Sankarshana, Pradyumna and Aniruddha. This is the Vyuha Form.  VyUha in this context means form or manifestation.

 

3) Á£ÉÁР ¬¨Á  §¸Æø  Ӿġõ  Å¢ÀÅí¸ÙÁ¡ö: Fish, Tortoise, and other incarnations: Varaha (Boar), Narasimha (Man-Lion), Kurma (Tortoise), Matsya (Fish), Vamana (Dwarf), Parasurama (The Rama with Battle-axe), Rama, Krishna, and Buddha).

 

4) °ÉÁ÷  ¯ûÙÕÅ¡ö  ´Ç¢Â¡¾  «ÕÔÁ¡õ: The Inner Abider (Antaryami) in the corporeal beings. This is the Antaryami Form.

 

5) °ÉÁ÷  ¯ûÙÕÅ¡ö  ´Ç¢Â¡¾  «ÕÔÁ¡õ: manifested Image Form (Temple images) for worship by the devotees of the Lord. Example: SriRanganathar in Srirangam, Varadaraja Perumal of Kanchi and Sri Venkatesvara of Tirupati. This is Archa Form.

 

 

6) §¾ÉÁ÷  ¦ºí¸ÆÄ¡ý ±ý ÁÉò§¾ §º÷ò¾Éý: The Lord wearing the anklets entered and abided in my heart.

 

 

 

 

 

Human beings do not have the privilege to worship the first four forms (Para, Vyuha, Vibhava and and Antaryami forms. Archa form (Image form) is the centerpiece of Vaishnava worship. Saranagati/Prapatti is performed to the Archa form.  Since Bhagavan is a pervader, He pervades and abides in the icon once Pranaprathista (Infusion of life) is performed.

 

 

The placement  of Aniruddha-Pradyumna-Samkarshana-Vasudeva in the configuration is as depicted in the table.

 

The configuration gives centrality to Vasudeva and Samkarshana; Aniruddha and Pradyumna flank both of them on either side, Aniruddha on your extreme right and Pradyumna on your extreme left.

 

Pradyumna

Samkarshana

Vasudeva

Aniruddha

Son of Lord Krishna and Rukmini

Brother of Lord Krishna, aka Baladeva

Lord Krishna Himself, son of Vasudeva and Devaki

Grandson of Lord Krishna and Son of Pradyumna (incarnation of KAma, god of love)

Dream sleep

Deep Sleep

Turiya

Wakefulness

Mahat

Jivan

Paramatman

Ahamkara

Creator

Destroyer

All qualities

Sustenance (Protector)

Knowledge and Intellect

Ego

Citta

Mind and senses

Presiding deity: Brahma

 

Presiding deity: Rudra

Presiding deity: The Soul

The presiding deity: Moon

 

Vyuha

Pradyumna

Sankarsana

Vasudeva

Aniruddha

Attributes

 

 

Jnāna (Wisdom)

 

 

 

 

Aisvarya (Auspiciousness)

Aisvarya (Auspiciousness)

 

 

Sakti

 

Sakti (Energy/Power)

 

 

Bala

 

Bala (Strength)

 

 

 

 

Virya (Valor)

Virya

 

 

 

Tejas (Splendor)

Tejas

Color

The Rays of the Sun

Red

White

Dark

Color of  Raiment

Red

Blue

Yellow

White

Weapons in four hands

Bow, Arrows, Conch, and abhaya mudra

Plough, Pestle, Conch, and Abhaya mudra

Discus and Mace, Conch, and Abhaya mudra

Sword, club, Conch, and Abhaya mudra

Special weapons

Bow and arrows

Plough and pestle

Discus and mace

Sword and club

Alternate configuration

Right upper: M

Right lower:C

Left upper:L

Left lower:D

Right upper: L

Right lower: C

Left upper: D

Left lower: M

Right upper: D

Right lower: C

Left upper: L

Left lower: M

Right upper: D

Right lower: L

Left upper: M

Left lower: C

Banner, Emblem

Makara (crocodile)

Tala  (palm tree)

Garuda (Eagle)

Mrga (deer)

 

The meaning of the word Saranam.

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau, Saranam Prapadye

Srimathe naaraayanaaya namah.

§ÅÚ  µ÷  «½íÌ  ¦¾¡Øõ  Å¢¨É  ¾£÷òР ±¨Á  ¬ñÊÎÅ¡ý

¬Úõ  «¾ý  ÀÂÏõ  ¾óÐ  «Ç¢ìÌõ  «ÕÙ¨¼Â¡ý

Á¡Ú  þľ¡ö  þÄÌõ  ÁР ¦ÁøÄʧÀ¡Ð  þÃñ¼¡ø

¿¡ÚÐÆ¡ú  ÓÊ¡ý ¿ÁìÌî  ºÃñ ¬Â¢É§É-- 6

Bhagavan the wearer of Tulasi on his crown abolishes the Karma of metempsychosis from worshipping lesser gods. Thus He reigns over us and gives us the means, the fruit and the Grace. Resolute in His Grace, His nectarine tender feet become the refuge of Sarnagathan.

¿¡ÚÐÆ¡ú  ÓÊ¡ý ¿ÁìÌî  ºÃñ ¬Â¢É§É: The wearer of fragrant Tulasi garland on His crown.

§ÅÚ  µ÷  «½íÌ  ¦¾¡Øõ  Å¢¨É  ¾£÷òР ±¨Á  ¬ñÊÎÅ¡ý: ...He brings relief from the karma of worshipping the lesser gods.

 §ÅÚ  µ÷  «½íÌ  ¦¾¡Øõ  Å¢¨É  ¾£÷òÐ ±¨Á  ¬ñÊÎÅ¡ý: (Having abolished our karma), He reigns over us.

¬Úõ  «¾ý  ÀÂÏõ  ¾óÐ  «Ç¢ìÌõ  «ÕÙ¨¼Â¡ý: The path (means) and its fruit: He gives.

¬Úõ  «¾ý  ÀÂÏõ  ¾óÐ  «Ç¢ìÌõ  «ÕÙ¨¼Â¡ý: Having given them, He is the Granter of Grace.

Á¡Ú  þľ¡ö  þÄÌõ  ÁР ¦ÁøÄʧÀ¡Ð  þÃñ¼¡ø: Unwavering (unchanging, resolute) grantor.

Á¡Ú  þľ¡ö  þÄÌõ  ÁÐ  ¦ÁøÄʧÀ¡Ð  þÃñ¼¡ø: Radiant Honeyed tender pair of sacred feet (Radiant nectarine feet).

¿¡ÚÐÆ¡ú  ÓÊ¡ý ¿ÁìÌî  ºÃñ ¬Â¢É§É: Bhagavan becomes the refuge (of the Saranagathan: ºÃ½¡÷ò¾¢ = º½¡¸¾ý = one who seeks refuge).

The meaning of Prapadye: (PR) PAdYE VERB: PREFIX: “PRA

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau, Saranam Prapadye

Srimathe naaraayanaaya namah.

¦ÀÕÅР ¿¡õ  ¦À¡¢§Â¡÷  ¦ÀÚõ§ÀÚ  ±É  ¿¢ýÈ  ±õ¨Á

¦ÅÚ¨Á ¯½÷ò¾¢  Å¢Ä측¾ ¿ýÉ¢¨Ä  ¬¾¡¢ôÀ¢òÐ

¯ÚÁ¾¢Â¡ø  ¾¨É  ´ñºÃñ  ±ýÈ  ¯½÷× ¾ó¾

ÁÚר¼  Á¡÷ÀÛ째  Áýɨ¼ì¸Äõ ¬Â¢É§Á. --(7)

Bhagavan gives us the realization that we an attain what the great men obtain by difficult-to- perform Yogas. He resolutely supports us and gives us the Jnanam to perform Saranagati to Him. Thus in the Lord we take refuge. The commentators say that Prapadye stands for Jnanam or knowledge and Great Faith in Bhagavan. Falling at the feet of Bhagavan means that one has abiding faith in Bhagavan and brings Spiritual Knowledge.

The meaning of the word 'Sriman Naaraayana'  Uttara PAkam  (¯ò¾ÃÀ¡¸õ = À¢üÀ̾¢ = the latter part).

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau, Saranam Prapadye

Srimathe naaraayanaaya namah.

 

 

ÍÕí¸¡  «¸¢Äõ  ±øÄ¡õ  ÐÇí¸¡  «Ó¾ì  ¸¼Ä¡ö

¦¿Õí¸¡Ð  «¨½óР ¯¼§É  ¿¢ýÈ  ¿õ ¾¢Õ¿¡Ã½É¡÷

þÃí¸¡¾  ¸¡Äí¸û  ±øÄ¡õ  þÆó¾ÀÂó¦ÀÈ  µ÷

¦ÀÕí¸¡¾ø  ¯üÚ þÉ¢§Áø  À¢¡¢Â¡¨Á ¯¸ó¾É§Á. (9)

 

Srimathe emphasizes and confirms the premise that the Mother (Piratti = À¢Ã¡ðÊ) and Bhagavan are an inseparable integer and Mother always remains with Him at all times, during Upaya anushtanam (¯À¡Â «Ûð¼¡Éõ = observance of means), serves as Means (Upayam) in the same capacity as Bhagavan,  ensures Her presence during Phalan-granting tasai (ÀÄý ¾¨º = fruit-bearing state) and graciously accepting Kaimkaryam (service to Bhagavan) from Prapannan on behalf of Her and Bhagavan.

¿õ ¾¢Õ¿¡Ã½É¡÷ = Our Tirunaananaar refers to Naaraayana with the following characteristics. The fruit (ÀÄý) consists of being the God of gods and all, the inimitable nectar of Kalyana Gunas (Auspicious qualities),  Aisvaryams (³îÍÅ¡¢Âõ or ³ÍÅ¡¢Âõ =  wealth, the quality or nature of the Lord), Divya Mangala Vigraham (¾¢ù Áí¸Ç Ţ츢øõ = Divine Stainless form) and Svamithvam (ŠÅ¡Á¢òÅõ--Ownership of the souls and the universe, godhood, the quality of being God).

The 4th case linked with Naaraayana sabdam or sound or word.

¸ÊÝÎ3 ãýÚõ4  ¸Æø1  À½¢ó¾¡÷ìÌì2  ¸Êó¾¢¼§Å5

ÓÊÝÊ6 ¿¢ýÈ7  Ó¸¢ø8  Åñ½É¡÷9 Óý  ¯Ä¸Çó¾

«ÊÝÎõ  ¿¡õ  «Å÷  ¬¾Ãò¾¡ø  ¯Îò¾ì  ¸¨ÇÔõ

ÀÊÝÊ  «ýÒ¼§É  À½¢¦ºöÂô  À½¢ó¾É§Á. (10)

¸Æø  À½¢ó¾¡÷ìÌì ¸ÊÝÎ ãýÚõ ¸Êó¾¢¼§Å ÓÊÝÊ ¿¢ýÈ  Ó¸¢ø  Åñ½É¡÷ = They who prostrate at the sacred feet of Bhagavan, He remains as the protective Cloud Cover banishing the three kinds of scorchers that the devotees are faced with.

There are three scorchers or miseries in the world and Bhagavan protects His devotees from these miseries:  Exogenous misery, endogenous misery and theogenous misery (Adhibautika, adhiatmika, Adhidaivika).

Exogenous misery,  Adhibautika: Misery inflicted by others, wars, natural disasters on which one has no control.

Endogenous misery, Adhiatmika: Misery coming from inside the body such as illness, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer's disease....

Theogenous Misery, Adhidaivika: This dispensation is from God according to merits and demerits of a person.  BG02: verse 2.44 commentary.

More on the miseries, which Bhagavan removes.

Generally Prarabdha Karmic fruit comes in three flavors: Adhibautika, Adiyatmika, and  Adhidaivika (Exogenous,  Endogenous and  Theogenous).

Adhibhautica Karma brings bitter fruits from external agents such as heat, cold, rain, storm, thunder, earthquake, floods, pestilence, tsunamis and other natural disasters.

The souls after death go to the world of Brahma, or Indra,  live among gods and enjoy bliss, eating fruits of good deeds. Once this pleasant sojourn in heaven is over, it is time to eat the bitter fruits of evil deeds;  the soul is taken to Yama, the god of death, who dispenses appropriate fruits for the sins. The suffering involves incineration, dipping in hot oils and other unspeakable hellish experiences. Once the fruits are eaten in heaven and hell, the soul returns to earth to expiate the remaining karma.

Adhiatmika Karma brings fruits from one's own body by way of disease, suffering, misery, old age and others.

 

Adhidaivika karmic fruit originates from God and determines the heredity, ancestry, and environment of the eater of the fruit. The birth may be of high, average or low status with its fruits; the souls after departure may enter heaven or hell for pleasure or pain. Vedas pronounce the word of God. The violator goes to hell and suffers; the complier goes to heaven and enjoys bliss. The Lord dispenses fruits according the merit or demerit of one's karma; that is the will of God. Suffering in hell abolishes sins.

 

¸ÊÝÎ3 ãýÚõ4  ¸Æø1  À½¢ó¾¡÷ìÌì2  ¸Êó¾¢¼§Å5

ÓÊÝÊ6 ¿¢ýÈ7  Ó¸¢ø8  Åñ½É¡÷9 Óý  ¯Ä¸Çó¾

«ÊÝÎõ  ¿¡õ  «Å÷  ¬¾Ãò¾¡ø  ¯Îò¾ì  ¸¨ÇÔõ

ÀÊÝÊ  «ýÒ¼§É  À½¢¦ºöÂô  À½¢ó¾É§Á. (10)

ÓÊÝÊ ¿¢ýÈ  Ó¸¢ø  Åñ½É¡÷ = Cloud-colored One wearing a crown. Sadagopa.org calls Bhagavan Neela Megha Shyamala Rajan (¿£Ä §Á¸ ŠÂ¡ÁÇ Ã¡ƒý = blue-cloud black king--The beauty and sacralization of the name are lost in translation. Vishnu is always depicted as having the color of the dark-blue Nimbus Clouds.

Óý  ¯Ä¸Çó¾ «ÊÝÎõ  ¿¡õ = We wear His sacred feet that once (in three steps) measured or traversed the whole world. It is submission, subservience, honor, grace and salvation to have Bhagavan's feet rest on the footstool of our head.

«Å÷  ¬¾Ãò¾¡ø  ¯Îò¾ì  ¸¨ÇÔõ ÀÊÝÊ = He shows His love to us. We wear the Vasthram (ÅŠ¾¢Ãõ = garment, a waist cloth; Dhoti) that he wore and shed, eat the Prasadam (À¢Ãº¡¾õ = favor, grace, it generally means food served to God and partaken by the devotees)

«ýÒ¼§É  À½¢¦ºöÂô  À½¢ó¾É§Á = We lovingly perform service to Him and prostrate at His feet.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Nama: the meaning of the  Sabdam, Sound or Word. Uttara PAkam  (¯ò¾ÃÀ¡¸õ = À¢üÀ̾¢ = the latter part).

Sriman Naaraayana Charanau, Saranam Prapadye

Srimathe naaraayanaaya namah.

 

¾ÉР «ýÚ  þ¨Å¦ÂÉò  ¾¡ý  «ýÚ  ±É  Á¨È  ¦º¡ýÉ  ¦ÅÄ¡õ

¾É¦¾ýÚõ  ¡ý  ±ýÚõ  ±ýϾġø  ÅÕõ  ®É¦ÁÄ¡õ

ÁÉР ´ýÈ¢  þýÚ  ¿Á ±ýȧ¾  ¦¸¡ñΠ Á¡üھġø

¾ÉР «ýÈ¢  ´ýÚõ  þøÄ¡ò  ¾É¢ò¾¡¨¾  º¾¢÷ò¾É§É.

There are two syllables in NaMa = Na + Ma = No + Yes  or Not Mine. No, all this is NOT mine; Yes, all this belongs to Bhagavan.  The renunciation of Ahamkaram and Mamakaram which are part of one's svaroopam (ŠÅåÀõ or ¦º¡åÀõ =  Real nature; natural state or condition.), Gunam (̽õ = Attribute, property, quality.), and sariram (º¡£Ãõ = body)

Ahamkaram and Mamakaram. (Ego and self-conceit = «¸í¸¡Ãõ ---ÁÁ¸¡Ãõ).

¾ÉР «ýÚ  þ¨Å¦ÂÉò  ¾¡ý  «ýÚ  ±É  Á¨È  ¦º¡ýÉ  ¦ÅÄ¡õ = All this is not mine. I am not all this, meaning I am not the body, made of matter. That is what the Sacred Texts say.

¾É¦¾ýÚõ  ¡ý  ±ýÚõ  ±ýϾġø  ÅÕõ  ®É¦ÁÄ¡õ = This is mine and I am...: all these thoughts bring miseries.

ÁÉР ´ýÈ¢  þýÚ  ¿Á ±ýȧ¾  ¦¸¡ñΠ Á¡üھġø = Change the attitude and focus your mind on NaMa

¾ÉР «ýÈ¢  ´ýÚõ  þøÄ¡ò  ¾É¢ò¾¡¨¾  º¾¢÷ò¾É§É =  Attitude of none are mine destroys (Ahamkaram and Mamakaram) and Bhagavan stands to gain.

The ten meanings of Dhvaya Mantram

§º÷ìÌõ  ¾¢ÕÁ¸û  §º÷ò¾¢Â¢ý  ÁýÛ¾ø  º£÷ô ¦À¡¢§Â¡üÌ

²üÌõ ̽í¸û  þÄ측õ  ÅÊÅ¢ø  þ¨½Âʸû

À¡÷ìÌõ  ºÃñ  «¾¢ø  ÀüÚ¾ø  ¿õ¿¢¨Ä  ¿¡õ ¦ÀÚõ  §ÀÚ

²ü¸¢ýÈ  ±ø¨Ä¸û  ±øÄ¡õ  ¸¨ÇÂÈ×  ±ñ½¢É§Á.

1) §º÷ìÌõ  ¾¢ÕÁ¸û = The Tirumakal who is united with Naaraayana. Tirumagal = Sri, Lakshmi, The sacred daughter of Samudra Raja--the daughter of the Ocean.

2)  §º÷ò¾¢Â¢ý  ÁýÛ¾ø = Sri and Naaraayana as always together

3) ²üÌõ ̽í¸û = His auspicious qualities

4) þ¨½Âʸû = pair of feet

5) À¡÷ìÌõ  ºÃñ = seeking refuge

6) «¾¢ø  ÀüÚ¾ø = To embrace (the feet)

7) ¿õ¿¢¨Ä = The steadfastness of Bhagavan

8) ¿¡õ ¦ÀÚõ  §ÀÚ = The blessings or gain that we obtain

9) ±ø¨Ä¸û =  Goal

10) ¸¨ÇÂÈ×  = the destruction and removal of (Ahamkaram and mamakaram).

The following is an extract from Sadagopan.org.

1) §º÷ìÌõ  ¾¢ÕÁ¸û  = Meaning of Sri Sabdham found in the Poorva BhAgam of Dhvaya Manthram

2) §º÷ò¾¢Â¢ý  ÁýÛ¾ø = “SErtthiyin mannuthal” = the meaning of “MAdhuph” section of “SrImath”.

3) ²üÌõ ̽í¸û =  the meaning of Naaraayana Sabdam.

4) þ¨½Âʸû = the meaning of Charana Sabdam.

5) À¡÷ìÌõ  ºÃñ = the meaning of Sarana sabdam.

6) «¾¢ø  ÀüÚ¾ø = the meaning of the prefix, Pra united with Padh.

7) ¿õ¿¢¨Ä = the quality of Sriman naaraayanan as the Uttama Purushan and its meanings.

8) ¿¡õ ¦ÀÚõ  §ÀÚ = the meaning of Sriman Naaraayana sabdam found in the Utthara Bhagam.

9) ±ø¨Ä¸û = the meaning of the fourth case (aaya).

10) ¸¨ÇÂÈ× = the meaning of the nama sabdam.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Charama Sloka: Charama Slokam

सर्वधर्मान्परित्यज्य मामेकं शरणं व्रज

अहं त्वां सर्वपापेभ्यो मोक्षयिष्यामि मा शुचः18.66

Sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekam śaraṇaṁ vraja

Aham tvāṁ sarva-pāpebhyo mokşayişyāmi mā śucaḥ

Charamasloka Churrukku  = ºÃÁŠ§Ä¡¸ÍÕìÌ = A short version

Meaning of the Charamslokam by Vedanta Desikan in a short form

The remaining ten Paasurams interpret the following words respectively :

(1) Sarva-dharmān parityajya

(2) mām

(3) ekam

(4) śaraṇaṁ

(5) vraja

(6) Aham

(7) tvāṁ

(8) sarva-pāpebhyo

(9) mokşayişyāmi

(10) śucaḥ

The Full meaning of Charama Slokam

¸øÄ¡÷  «¸Öõ  ¸ÕÁÓõ  »¡ÉÓí ¸¡¾Öõ

Áü¦ÈøÄ¡  ¿¢¨Ä¸ÙìÌ  ²üÀ Å¢¾¢ò¾  ¸¢¡¢¨º¸Ùõ

ÅøÄ¡÷  ÓÂø¸  ÅĢ¢Æó¾¡÷  ±ýȨÉò  ¦¾¡Ø¦¸ýÚ

±øÄ¡ò  ¾ÕÁÓõ  ¯¨Ãò¾Åý þýÉÊ §º÷ó¾É§Á.

Bhagavan says to Arjuna and indirectly to us that once Saranagaty is made to Bhagavan, all the powerless souls can stop grieving any more.

ÅøÄ¡÷  ÓÂø¸ ÅĢ¢Æó¾¡÷  ±ýȨÉò  ¦¾¡Ø¦¸ýÚ: Let the competent ones keep trying (pursuit of) the difficult-to-practice Bhakti Yogam. Let the powerless and the weakest offer their worship to Me.

±øÄ¡ò  ¾ÕÁÓõ  ¯¨Ãò¾Åý = He is the One who has given instructions on all Dharmas.

þýÉÊ §º÷ó¾É§Á = Desikan says in this verse that he himself attained His feet by Saranagati.

Karma, Jnana, and Bakti Yogas can be practiced by competent Yogis and not by ordinary men and women. Almost all of them drop out after repeated failures. All those failures do have recourse to Saranagati, which is easy to perform by anybody to attain liberation (Moksa).

¦ÅÚ¨Á ¯½÷óÐ «Ð ÓÉÉ¢ðÎ §ÅÚ «í¸õ þø¨Ä ±Éì

ÌÈ¢ÂÅý  þýÉÈ  ±ð¼ì  ÌÈ¢ò¾¢Îí  §¸¡¨½ÐÈóÐ

¯ÚÁÂý  «ò¾¢Ãõ  ±ýÉô  ¦À¡È¡¿¢¨Ä  µ÷ó¾¢¼§Å¡÷

«È¦¿È¢  ÂýÚ¨Ãò  ¾¡ÉÆ¢  ¡ÅÈ Á¡Â¢É§É.

The six meanings of '(1) Sarva-dharmān parityajya'.

Sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekam śaraṇaṁ vraja

Aham tvāṁ sarva-pāpebhyo mokşayişyāmi mā śucaḥ

1st meaning of Sarva-dharmān parityajya :  ¦ÅÚ¨Á ¯½÷óР = Realizing the emptiness or powerlessness of the Chetanam. ¦ÅÚ¨Á  means uselessness, profitlessness or poverty. When one is faced with poverty or lack of means to attain Moksa, one has to perform Saranagati.

Give up all Dharmas.  This is the advice Bhagavan gives to Arjuna and us and to recommends Prapatti Yogam

2nd Meaning Sarva-dharmān parityajya : «Ð ÓýÉ¢ðÎ = 'On account of it' meaning that the Chetanam is destitute of means («¸¢ïºÉý(Destitute person; ¾¡¢ò¾¢Ãý) . Destitution or poverty of means is known as Akincanyam --«(¬)¸¢ïºýÂõ.  This condition of the Chetanam is called KArpanyam (Kārpa = wretchedness, poverty).

3rd meaning of Sarva-dharmān parityajya: §ÅÚ «í¸õ þø¨Ä ±É: meaning there are no other limbs or ramifications.  «í¸õ means literally 'limb'.  Prapatti Yogam easily observable Angams: Ānukūlya Sakalpam, Prātikūlya Varjanam, Gopttva Varaam, Kārpayam, Mahā Viśvāsam, Ātma-nikşepa.  Bhakti and other Yogas has Yama, Niyama and other limiting limbs hard to observe. Bhakti and other Yogas have 8-point do's and Dont's, which are hard to observe or follow.

4th meaning of Sarva-dharman parityajya: ÌÈ¢ÂÅý  þýÉÈ  ±ð¼ì  ÌÈ¢ò¾¢Îí  §¸¡¨½ÐÈóÐ = refers to a person of low stature (in height) abandons his many attempts to reach the honeycomb on the tree branch while jumping up and down. As the dwarf cannot reach the honeycomb and abandons his effort, the Chetanam should abandon all Yogas and other futile efforts to attain Moksa and go for Saranagati. ÌÈ¢ÂÅý = the one who aims to reach the honeycomb.

5th meaning of Sarva-dharman parityajya: Man should abandon all his futile efforts and adopt Prapatti Yogam. It is like a man holding on to a straw to stop from drowning.

6th meaning of  Sarva-dharman parityajya:  ¯ÚÁÂý  «ò¾¢Ãõ  ±ýÉô  ¦À¡È¡¿¢¨Ä  µ÷ó¾¢¼§Å¡÷: This is an analogy. If one has a doubt on the efficacy of Asthiram (Brahmasthiram = Brahma's missile) and if he sends another to reinforce it, the Brahmastharam will not be effective. This is Brahmasthara Nyayam, Doctrine or philosophy. The advice is that one should not doubt the efficacy of Prapatti Yogam. 

The meaning of the word 2) Maam (To Me = Bhagavan) who has the Inimitable qualities.

Sarva-dharmān parityajya mām2 ekam śaranam vraja

Aham tvāṁ sarva-pāpebhyo mokşayişyāmi mā śucah

Å¡¡¢¾¢  Å¢ðΠ ÁÄ÷Á¸§Ç¡Î ÁШà ÅóÐ

À¡Ã¾  ¦ÅïºÁ÷  À¡÷Á¸û  À¡Ãï  ¦º¸×¸óÐ

º¡Ã¾¢ ¡ö ÓýÒ à¾ÛÁ¡öò  ¾ÇÕõ  Å¢ºÂý

§¾Ã¾¢ø  ¿¢ýÈŨÉò  §¾üȢɡý  ¾¢ÈÁ¡Â¢É§Á.

Me (maam2) describes his qualities. Who is Me?

Having left the Ocean, Bhagavan came to Madurai with Malarmagal (flower-daughter, Sri or Lakshmi). He served as the envoy earlier. He served as the Charioteer for Visayan (Arjuna).  He infused strength to enfeebled Arjuna. Commentators interpret Mam as referring to Inseparable Sri also, since there is a reference to Malarmagal.

Å¡¡¢¾¢ = ocean.  ¦ÅïºÁõ = war.  ¾ÇÕõ  = enfeebled. Å¢ºÂý = Arjuna  ¾¢Èõ = firmness, stability.

This verse extols the inimitable qualities of Bhagavan.

Bhagavan has the following qualities: Saulabhya (Easy accessibility, Affability); Sausīlya (Gracious Condescension); Vātsalya (Loving disposition); Kpa (Compassion); Audārya (Generosity); Bandhutva (friendly relationship).

Saulabhya = Easy accessibility, Affability. Bhagavan makes Himself easily accessible to His devotees by manifesting Himself in different forms either in Vibhava or Archa forms. (See the Five forms of Vishnu flowchart.above) Because of this easy access, we can approach Him and obtain salvation. Nammalvar extols His easy access in the following verses in Divyaprabhandam.

ÀòÐ ¯¨¼ «Ê¨ÅìÌ ±Ç¢ÂÅý 2921

±Ç¢ÅÕõ þÂøÅ¢Éý ¿¢¨Ä ÅÃõÒ þÄ ÀÄ À¢ÃôÀ¡ö --2922.

¡Õõ  µ÷ ¿¢¨Ä¨ÁÂý  ±É  «È¢×  «¡¢Â ±õ  ¦ÀÕÁ¡ý

¡Õõ  µ÷ ¿¢¨Ä¨ÁÂý ±É «È¢×  ±Ç¢Â ±õ  ¦ÀÕÁ¡ý--2924

Sausīlya (Gracious Condescension). Bhagavan condescends to the level of human beings and interacts with them without any reserve. His condescension shows when He offered himself as the charioteer for Arjuna, when Rama embraced Guha, the hunter. Though the Alvars called Bhagavan in the form of Krishna as a 'Butter Thief' he condescended to them and granted Grace. Bhagavan lived among the cowherds showing his Sausilya. Alvars see the divine hand in that Bhagavan chose the humble Alvar of lowest birth to sing His glory.

Vātsalya (Loving disposition). He shows theloving nature to His devotees, despite their sins and shortcomings as in the case of mother to the child and the cow to its calf by licking it clean soon after birth.

Kpa (Compassion). Compassion and Grace («Õû) are synonymous in the mind of Alvars. The Cosmic Creator out of Mercy and Grace incarnates Himself in human form to shower Grace on His devotees.  nammalvar extols the virtue of Bhagavan as conferring compassion and Grace to him by blessing him with spiritual and poetical knowledge on someone like him without in return demanding any spiritual discipline. That is compassion and Grace.

He sings as follows:

¯Â÷× «È  ¯Â÷  ¿Äõ  ¯¨¼ÂÅý ±Åý?  «Åý.

ÁÂ÷× «È  Á¾¢-  ¿Äõ «ÕÇ¢Éý ±Åý?  «Åý.

«Â÷×  «Úõ  «ÁÃ÷ ¸û «¾¢À¾¢ ±Åý?  «Åý

ÐÂ÷ «Ú  ͼ÷-- «Ê  ¦¾¡ØÐ ±Ø ±ý ÁɧÉ!--2899 Divyaprabhandam

Who is of Higher virtue than the highest? It is Him.

Who is the One who removes ignorance and grants knowledge? It is Him.

Who is the Chief of all indefatigable gods? It is Him.

O my mind! Worship His grief-removing effulgent feet and rise.

Now we come to Ekam and its definition.

Sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekam śaranam vraja

Aham tvāṁ sarva-pāpebhyo mokşayişyāmi mā śucah

¾ýÉÕÇ¡ø  ¦ÀÚõ  º¡¾Éõ  º¡¾¸ý  ±ýÚ  þÅü¨Èò

¾ýϼý  ±ñϾø ¿£í¸ò  ¾É¢òР ´Õ  º¡¾ÉÁ¡öô

¦À¡ý  «Õ§Ä¡Îõ  «ôâÁ¸§Ç¡Îõ  Ò¸ú  ¿¢ýÈ

þýۨà ®º¨É§Â  ²¸õ ±ñ½  Å¢¨ºó¾É§Á.

¾ýÉÕÇ¡ø  ¦ÀÚõ = What is obtained by the Grace of Bhagavan. it is the Grace of the Lord that gives the Means.

º¡¾Éõ  º¡¾¸ý  ±ýÚ  þÅü¨Èò ¾ýϼý  ±ñϾø ¿£í¸ò =  He removes the ego of possessing the means and being the pursuer from the psyche of the individual soul.

 º¡¾Éõ (sAthanam = means, Instrument). º¡¾¸ý (sAthakan = One who is advanced in the pursuit of the MEANS of attaining salvation.) SAthanam is the Means and and SAthakan is the Pursuer.  The idea of  Means and the Pursuer belongs to the individual soul is a wrong notion. If it is not for Bhagavan, the means and the pursuer do not exist. Thus Bhagavan removes the ego of the individual soul as owning the means and himself.

Ekam (only) indicates ²¸òÐÅõ (Ekattuvam) Oneness; this oneness includes Sri in its essence.  Ekam attached to Mam (MAm Ekam) gives a special meaning (Å¢§º¼ «÷ò¾õ = VisEsa Artham) to the combined words. That special meaning refers to Bhagavan. Bhagavan or Sarvesvaran (º÷§ÅîÍÃý = º÷§Å‰ÅÃý = The Supreme Ruler of All) is the Fruit (ÀÄý) to be enjoyed by the aspiring soul. The Lord is the Goal. The Means to the fruit is Parpatti Yogam or Upayam (the five tenets of Prapatti).

Thus the word Ekam encompasses in its content and meaning both UpAyam and Phalan  (Means and Fruit),  which are no other than Bhagavan Himself.

In order for the Chetanam to observe 5 tenets of Prapatti Bhagavan's Grace is necessary. Bhagavan induces man to use his body, mind and organs to perform the means (UpAyams = ¯À¡Âõ).

There are two kinds of UpAyams: SiddhOpAyam and SaadhyOpAyamSiddhOpAyam = Siddhi + UpAyam = The One who existed before all else + Means. SaadhyOpAyam = Saadhya + UpAyam.  Saadhya = Saadhana Steady and persevering practice = Bhakti, Jnana and Karma Yogas.

Because Bhagavan existed before all else, He is known as SiddhOpAyam and the means also carries the same name.  Siddhopayam is to declare Prapatti in full faith and observance and take refuge at His feet.

SaadhyOpAyan is performing the Yogas, which are difficult to perform because of powerlessness,  inability, lack of will and persistence and uncertain results.

Bhagavan recommends Siddhopayam for His devotees because it is a sure-fire means to attain liberation.

Between Siddhopayan and Sadhyopayan, Siddhopayan is like quenching urgent thirst by drinking water from a pond and the latter is digging a well to obtain water to quench the thirst.

Bhagavan accepts Prapatti as Vyajam (Ţ¡ƒõ = a pretext for the real thing). Prapatti is an acceptable, alternate, effective and working paradigm for attaining Paramapadam (ÀÃÁÀ¾õ = Supreme Place = Vaishnava heaven)

Bhagavan does not expect any more or other endeavors from the Mumuksus.  Even Nammalvar did not perform Bhakti, Jnana or Karma Yogas. He recommended Prapatti as a means to Moksa (liberation). The more important reason that the Vaishnava Theologian did not practice Yogas is because of his caste (he is not a Brahmana).  Upanishads forbid low-cast people (except Brahmana, Ksatriya and Vaisya) to practice Yogas. Nammalvar being a Sudra was ineligible for the Yogas. he pursued Prapatti as this was the only recourse he had to attain moksa.

Prapatti has two principles as its mainstay: 1) God as Sarvesvara (º÷§ÅŠÅÃý) endowed with DayA (¾¨Â = compassion), Omniscience (sarvajnyatva), and Omnipotence (saravasaktitva). he is the ONLY refuge (Saranya) for those aspiring for liberation. 2) The individual souls (Chetanams) mired in Samsara is not capable of any means other than Him to break the bonds of Samsara and attain liberation.

¦À¡ý  «Õ§Ä¡Îõ  «ôâÁ¸§Ç¡Îõ  Ò¸ú  ¿¢ýÈ

þýۨà ®º¨É§Â  ²¸õ ±ñ½  Å¢¨ºó¾É§Á.

His golden Grace and the Flower-wife (À¢Ã¡ðÊ = consort of Vishnu) are both One and the means and the Goal.

Nammalvar sings the following verse Tiruvaimozi 5.7.10 or Divyaprabhandam Verse 3416.

¬Ú  ±ÉìÌ  ¿¢ý  À¡¾§Á  ºÃñ  ¬¸ò  ¾ó¦¾¡Æ¢ó¾¡ö; ¯ÉìÌ  µ÷¨¸õ

ÁÚ  ¿¡ý  ´ýÚ  þ§Äý;  ±ÉÐ ¬Å¢Ôõ  ¯É§¾-

§ºÚ  ¦¸¡û  ¸ÕõÒõ  ¦ÀÕõ  ¦ºó¦¿Öõ ÁÄ¢  ¾ñ  º¢¡£ÅÃÁí¨¸

¿¡Ú  âó  ¾ñ  -  ÐÆ¡ö  ÓÊ¡ö!  ¦¾öÅ --  ¿¡Â¸§É.

My refuge is Your Feet: that was Your doing.  What am I going to do as a return for your Grace?  I have nothing to handover to You. My life is Yours (My soul is Yours).  O Wearer of fragrant Sacred Basil on your hair, O God of gods, You abide in the cool City of Sirivaramangai where the the sugar cane and luscious paddy grow.

These are the conditions for claiming the use of Prapatti: Ākiñsanya, absolute inability to perform Bhakti Yoga; Ananya-gatitva («Éýɢ ¸¾¢òÐÅõ), lack of any refuge other than God.

Swami Desikan says that Prapannan should perform Atma Samarpanam or Atma Niksepa with its 5 limbs of Prapatti.

Atma Samarpanam is Angi (Primary Limb) and the other five are the secondary limbs (Angam). All are important.

Prapatti is a discipline with 1 Angi and 5 Angas  to follow: Ātma-nikşepa is the primary Angi or component; The 5 Angas areĀnukūlya Sakalpam, Prātikūlya Varjanam, Gopttva Varaam, Kārpayam, Mahā Viśvāsam,

Ātma-nikepa = Casting the soul (at His feet) for protection and worship. (the Most Important).

Ānukūlya Sakalpam = Doing only god-pleasing acts.

Prātikūlya Varjanam = Not doing god-displeasing acts.

Gopttva Varaam = Seeking  and requesting God for protection.

Kārpayam = Feeling humility for helplessness to perform other means of salvation.

Mahā Viśvāsam = Irrevocable and absolute faith in God as the sole protector.

 

The Meaning of the word, 'Saranam Vraja'.

Sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekam śaranam vraja

Aham tvāṁ sarva-pāpebhyo mokşayişyāmi mā śucah

°É¢ ø  þ¨½òÐ ¯ÆøÅ¢ìÌõ  Å¢¨É츼Ùû  Å¢Øó¾

¡ý  ±É¾¡É  ̽í¸û  ±ÉìÌ  þ¨º  ¿øÅÆ¢Ôõ

¾¡ý ¯¾Å¢ò-¾¨É  ¾ó¾¢¼  ¿¢ýÈ  ¾É¢ò  ¾ÕÁõ

¿¡ý  þÉ¢  §ÅÚ µ÷ ÀÃõ ¿Ï¸ Ũ¸  ÀÿϠ ¸¡Å¨Ä  ¿ø¸¢Â§¾.

°É¢ ø  þ¨½òÐ ¯ÆøÅ¢ìÌõ  Å¢¨É츼Ùû  Å¢Øó¾  Â¡ý  ±É¾¡É  ̽í¸û  =Having been united with corporeal body, the soul falls in the swirling sea of Samsara.

±ÉìÌ  þ¨º  ¿øÅÆ¢Ôõ ¾¡ý ¯¾Å¢   ¾¨É  ¾ó¾¢¼ = You (Bhagavan) has pointed the good path and extended a helping hand to the suffering me.

¾¨É  ¾ó¾¢¼  ¿¢ýÈ  ¾É¢ò  ¾ÕÁõ = He gave Himself as Siddhopayam, the special Dharma.

¿¡ý  þÉ¢  §ÅÚ µ÷ ÀÃõ ¿Ï¸ Ũ¸  ÀÿϠ ¸¡Å¨Ä  ¿ø¸¢Â§¾. =  I do not have to approach anyone else because Bhagavan gave me the protection.

The meaning of the word Vraja

¸Î  Å¢¨É  ¿¡õ  ¦ÀÚõ  §Àü¨Èò  ¾¨¸ó¾¨Á  ¸ñΠ ¿õ§Áø

²üÚ  ¦¾¡¨¼  Ţĸ¡Áø  þ¨ºóР ´Õ  ¸¡Äõ  н¢×¼§É

¯¨¼¨Á  «¨¼ì¸ÄÁ¡¸  «¨¼ìÌõ  ¯¸ôÀ¾É¡ø

«¨¼  ¦ÂÉ  «ýÚ  ¯¨Ãò¾¡ý  «¨¼Å¢ò¾Éý ¾ýÉʧÂ.

The severe Karma prevented us from gaining Moksam. That we found out.

We should not abandon the Sacred Texts, and do only acts that please Bhagavan.

We should entertain Mahavisvasam towards Bhagavan.  We should dedicate our soul to Him.

That day in the past, He instructed (Arjuna) to seek and take refuge at His feet and us now to do the same.

Saranam Vraja = Take Refuge. It means Atma Samarpanam (Dedication of the soul) to Bhagavan. It corresponds to the Main Tenet  (Angi = main aspect) Atma Niksepa.

Sadagopan.org interprets the words as aspects of Prapatti.

¸Î  Å¢¨É  ¿¡õ  ¦ÀÚõ  §Àü¨Èò  ¾¨¸ó¾¨Á  ¸ñΠ ¿õ§Áø = Kārpayam = Feeling humility for helplessness to perform other means of salvation.

¦¾¡¨¼  Ţĸ¡Áø = Prātikūlya Varjanam = Not doing god-displeasing acts.

þ¨ºóР = Ānukūlya Sakalpam = Doing only god-pleasing acts.

н¢×¼§É = Mahā Viśvāsam = Irrevocable and absolute faith in God as the sole protector.

«¨¼ì¸ÄÁ¡¸ = Gopttva Varaam = Seeking  and requesting God for protection.

«¨¼ = Ātma-nikepa = Atma Samarpanam = Dedication of the soul to Bhagavan. Casting the soul (at His feet) for protection and worship. (the Most Important).

 

mām ekam śaranam vraja = Take Refuge in Me only.

Lord Oppiliappan in Tiruvinnagaram, a form of Lord Vishnu has the above Inscription on the palm of His Right Lower Arm.

The Oppiliappan Koil (Tiruvinagaram) is located at Thiru Nageswaram near Kumbakonam in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu.

The Lord in this temple bears the charama slOkam in His right hand palm as "maam Ekam Saranam vraja" and offers abayahastham. Hence this is also known as the "paripooraNa chranaagathi" offering kshethram.

Lord Oppilappan, the main deity, blesses one and all, with His "Panchaavataram" or five forms,viz. Hema (Ponnappan), Muktha (Mutthappan), Mani (Maniappan), Vyoma Pureesan (ViNNagarappan) and Matpathi (Ennappan).

The Meaning of AHAM

Sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekam śaranam vraja

Aham tvā sarva-pāpebhyo mokşayişyāmi mā śucah

¸¡ý  ±ýÈ  §Å¾í¸û  ¸¡ìÌõ  ÀÃý ±ýÚ  ¸¡ð¼  ¿¢ý§È¡ý

¾¡ý  ±ýÚ  «È¢Â¸¢Ä¡÷ìÌ  «È¢Å¢ìÌõ  ¾É¢ò¾¢È§Ä¡ý

Å¡ý  ´ýȢɡ§Ã¡Î Á¡É¢¼ý  ±ýÉ  «Å¾¡¢ôÀ¡ý

¿¡ý  ±ýÈ ¿õ  ¾¢ÕÁ¡ø  ¿õ¨Á  ¿ø  À¾õ  §º÷ò¾¢Î§Á.

Jungle, that is what the Vedas are (because we don't know their meaning.  Supreme Protector that He is.

 Ignoramuses he shows to, as to who He is. 

Incarnation as a human He takes.

AHAM is What our Tirumal is.  His Feet are our refuge. He will take us to Moksa.

AHAM is the Supreme 'I' of Bhagavan, who condescended to offer refuge at his Feet to the Prapannans who surrendered at His feet with Mahavisvasam (Great Loyalty and Faith) and thus would be led into Moksam.

¾ýÉ¢¨Ä ¸¡ðÊ ¾É¢¨Á ¯¸óР ¾É¢ò¾¸Å¡ø

«ýÉ¢¨Ä  ¾£Ã  «¨¼ì¸Äõ  ¦¸¡ñΠ «Ê  §º÷ò¾¢¼§Å

Àø¿¢¨Ä  ãÄ  ¦ÂØò¾¢Öõ  À¡ñ¼Åý  §¾÷¾É¢Öõ

ÓýÉ¢¨Ä  ¦¸¡ñ¼  À¢Ã¡ý  ±¨Á  ÓýÉ¢¨Ä ¦¸¡ñ¼É§É.

His svarupam He showed to us, which is different (from those of The Chetanams and Achetanams).

Saving us from our Samsaric state, he offered us Refuge at His Feet.

Knowing our many other futile means, pursuits, and inability, He took pity on us.

The First that Bhagavan is, He has brought us to the forefront (for taking us to Moksam).

 

ÓýÉ¢¨Ä  ¦¸¡ñ¼  À¢Ã¡ý = Piran (Bhagavan) who is in the Forefront, meaning that He is the First letter (A) of the alphabet, he is the First in the universe,  and that He sat in front of Arjuna as his Charioteer.

The Meaning of the word Tva = You.

Bhagavan addresses Arjuna and all Chetanams individually.

The following is adapted from Sadagopan. org.

Bhagavan says the following by the word ''Tva''.Because of my upadesam (¯À§¾ºõ = Spiritual Instruction, communication of Mantras) you have become familiar with the Mantrams. Your Vivekam (Å¢§Å¸õ = Discrimination, the capacity to reason and distinguish)  has been awakened. You have given up futile means and pursuits in this world. You have now the fruit. Now you know the hard path of Yogas.  You now know I am your Means and Goal and I destroy your moksa virodhis (§Á¡ðº Å¢§Ã¡¾¢ = they who are impediments to Moksa). Bhagavan has taken the burden of protection of the Chetanams.  Because you have performed Saranagati (ºÃ½¡¸¾¢), you are now kiruta-kiruttiyan (Krutha Kruthyan = ¸¢Õ¾¸¢Õò¾¢Âý = One who has done his duty).

The meaning of the word SarvaPApebhyo.

Sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekam śaranam vraja

Aham tvā sarva-pāpebhyo mokşayişyāmi mā śucah

¸¡Î¸§Ç¡  ¿Ã§¸¡  ¸Ê¾¡õ  ¸ÃÇò ¾¢Ã§Ç¡

ÝΠ Å¢¼  «É§Ä¡  ¦¾¡¨Ä¡  ¿¢¨Ä  ¿ûǢէǡ

º¡Î  À¼î  ºÃ½ø  «ýÚ  º¡Ê  º¡Ã¾¢Â¡÷

ţΠ ¦ºöÅ¢òР ¿¨Á  Å¢ÎŢ츢ýÈ  À¡Åí¸§Ç.

 

Jungles, hell, poison, raging fire, everlasting dark night are the descriptive of sins.  Bhagavan will release us from the sins and take us Home (ţΠ= Home = ¨ÅÌñ¼õ = Vishnu's heaven). Bhagavan will trample on the papams as He did before on a demon.

Here Paapam (À¡Àõ)  indicates Religious demerit. The opposite of Paapam is Punyam (Òñ½¢Âõ), Religious Merits. Punyam takes a person to a temporary heaven; once the term and lease come to an end, the soul is put back on the earth in the embodied form. Krishna's heaven is a permanent place for the liberated. Once the Prapannan takes and practices the vows of Prapatti/Saranagati, Bhagavan takes him to the Permanent Paramapadam (ÀÃÁÀ¾õ = Supreme Abode or ¨ÅÌñ¼õ = Vishnu's Heaven).

Papam in this context includes both Merits and Demerits. Sarva means all. Sarva Paapebhyo = all sins; all Karmas. Both are binding and send the soul to the world of miseries. There is no permanent relief or liberation from them. For Mumukshu (ÓÓðÍ = one who is eager for salvation), both Svargam (ÍÅ÷ì¸õ = lower heaven = Indira's heaven, the world of gods) and Narakam (¿Ã¸õ = infernal region) are no bargain. His goal is Bhagavan's feet and destination Vaikuntam.

Sri Vaishnavism lists the following as the agents of bondage: AVidya («Å¢ò¨¾ = Spiritual ignorance) generates Papam. Vasanas (Å¡º¨É = Predisposition in the present life due to the experiences of a former birth) are like genes; they have the predilection to make a person behave the way he behaves. It is like the fragrance that sticks to the clothes. Association with Prakrti (À¢Ã¸¢Õ¾¢ = Original producer or passive creative power of the material world). Once these are driven away by Saranagati, Shackles fall off from the Jivatman (º£Å¡òÁ¡ or º£Å¡òÐÁ¡ = Individual soul/Living being). All papam accumulated before Saranagati.

The meaning of Moksaisyami

Sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekam śaranam vraja

Aham tvā sarva-pāpebhyo mokşayişyāmi mā śucah

 

¦ºýÚ  ¯Â÷  Å¡ý  «Á÷óР «ùÅÊ¡ռý  §º÷ó¾¢¼§Å

þýÚ  ±É¢ø  þýÚ  ¿¡¨Ç ±É¢ø  ¿¡¨Ç  þɢȢóÐ

¿¢ýÈ  ¿¢¨Ä ¿¢ý  «¨ÉòР Å¢¨ÉÔõ ¿¢ý  Å¢ð¼¸Äì

¸ýÈ¢  Å¢ÎôÀý  ±ýÈ¡ý  ¸Õò¾¡ø  ¿¨Áì-¸¡ò¾¢Î§Á.

Bhagavan gives Prapannan relief from all the bondages and miseries of this world and let him join others in Vaikuntam. He could let the Prapannan (both the distressed and the satisfied Prapannans) attain Videha Mukti (incorporeal liberation, meaning liberation following death) today or tomorrow as he desires. This shows his willingness and flexibility to oblige the Prapannan.  Bhagavan will destroy all the Karmas (Vinai = Å¢¨É).   Bhagavan would protect us.

Mukti is of two kinds: Videha mukti and Jivan Mukti. The first one means 'liberation without the body' and after death; that is Bodiless liberation (Incorporeal liberation). Sirviashnavas believe only in Videha mukti. They say that a person may be perfect and yet when that perfect soul as long as it wears a body does not enjoy Moksa. Body has no place in Vaikuntam. Every liberated incorporeal soul is a Pure Spirit, Which goes through many purifications on the way to Vaikuntam. The Pure Spirit is divested of all connections to body, world, gender, Karma, Impressions, Vasanas or any other accretion it may have before arrival in Vaikuntam.

Saivas believe that a perfect man can attain liberation while alive in this world. That is Jivan Mukti. It is like Early Admission when a lucky Senior is admitted into a Ivy League College before the general admission. Jivan Mukta has a reserved seat in Saiva Heaven.

The Meaning of Maa Sucha

Sarva-dharmān parityajya mām ekam śaranam vraja

Aham tvā sarva-pāpebhyo mokşayişyāmi mā śucah

 

«È¢×õ  «¨ÉòÐõ  þÄ¡ «Ê§¡¨Á  «¨¼ì¸Äõ ¦¸¡ñÎ

¯È×  ±É  ¿¢ýÈ  ±øÄ¡õ  ¯È§Å  ¿¢ýÈ  ¾¡ý  ±Á측ö

ÁÚ  À¢ÈÅ¢ò  ÐÂ÷  šáŨ¸  ÁÉõ ¦¸¡ñΠ «¸Ä¡

þ¨ÃÅý  þýÉÕÇ¡ø  ±íÌõ  §º¡¸õ  ¾Å¢÷ò¾É§É.

 

maa sucha means 'do not grieve'. Bhagavan offers his assurance to Chetanam that He will release the Prapannan from all the sorrows of the world and offer him protection and refuge. He will prevent the Prapannan from taking another birth full of misery. Thus He removes all grief and grants Grace («Õû).

Varadaraja Perumal of Kanchi has the 'Maa Sucha' engraved on His palm.

Here is the staircase to Paramapadam. As you see, the liberated soul has to dip into river and lake for purification before it comes before Narayana. This is the Empyreal Highway to Vaikuntam.