Gnanasambandar

Gnanasambandar, also known as Thirugnana Sambandar, was a Shaivite saint and poet who lived in the 7th century CE. He is one of the Nayanmars, a group of 63 Tamil saints revered in Shaivism. Gnanasambandar is credited with composing many devotional hymns, known as Thevaram, which are central to the Shaivite tradition in Tamil Nadu.

According to tradition, Gnanasambandar was a child prodigy who received divine grace from the goddess Parvati at the age of three. He is depicted as having a miraculous ability to compose poetry and sing devotional songs. His hymns are characterized by their lyrical beauty, theological depth, and emotional intensity, expressing profound love and devotion to Lord Shiva.

Gnanasambandar is said to have traveled extensively throughout the Tamil lands, visiting numerous Shiva temples and composing hymns in praise of the presiding deities. He is also known for his role in refuting rival religious sects, particularly Buddhism and Jainism, through theological debates and miraculous feats. His life and teachings significantly contributed to the resurgence and consolidation of Shaivism in South India. The hymns of Gnanasambandar, along with those of Appar and Sundarar, form the core of the Thevaram, a sacred collection revered by Tamil Shaivites.