Tiruviruttam

Tiruviruttam is a foundational work in Tamil devotional literature, specifically within the Vaishnavite tradition. Composed by the Alwar Nammalvar, it is one of his four main works, collectively known as the "Nammalvar Nalayiram." The title itself translates to "The Sacred Four Hundred," referring to the 400 verses that comprise the work.

The Tiruviruttam is deeply philosophical and expresses the intense love and devotion of the Alwar towards Vishnu. It is characterized by its poetic beauty and its exploration of various aspects of the divine-human relationship. The verses often employ rich imagery and metaphors to convey the profound spiritual experiences of Nammalvar. The work is divided into four sections, each exploring different moods and stages of devotion, from longing and separation to ecstatic union.

This text is considered a significant contribution to the Bhakti movement in South India and has had a lasting influence on subsequent Tamil devotional poetry and philosophy. It is chanted and studied by devotees and scholars alike, serving as a testament to the rich spiritual heritage of Tamil Nadu. The Tiruviruttam is an integral part of the Divya Prabandham, a collection of Tamil devotional hymns by the Alvars.