Ramalinga Swamigal

Vallalar, also known as Ramalinga Swamigal, was a Tamil saint and spiritual leader whose teachings are deeply rooted in compassion, universal love, and spiritual enlightenment. His principles form the foundation of his philosophy and continue to inspire many. Here are some of the key principles of Vallalar:

1. Jeeva Karunya (Compassion for All Life)

• Vallalar emphasized the importance of compassion for all living beings. He believed that true spirituality is expressed through kindness and care for others, whether human or animal. This principle is central to his teachings and advocates for a life of non-violence and empathy.

2. Universal Brotherhood

• Vallalar taught that all human beings are equal, regardless of caste, creed, or religion. He promoted the idea of universal brotherhood, where love and respect transcend all divisions. His teachings encourage the breaking down of social barriers and the embracing of all humanity as one family.

3. Spiritual Enlightenment

• Vallalar believed that spiritual enlightenment is the ultimate goal of life. He encouraged seekers to pursue a path of inner purity, self-discipline, and devotion to achieve divine knowledge. He also emphasized that enlightenment is accessible to everyone, not just a select few.

4. Arut Perum Jothi (The Divine Light of Grace)

• Central to Vallalar’s teachings is the concept of Arut Perum Jothi, which means “The Divine Light of Grace.” He believed that this divine light is the ultimate truth and the source of all creation. Vallalar’s spiritual practices focused on realizing and experiencing this divine light within oneself.

5. Simple and Ethical Living

• Vallalar advocated for a simple lifestyle, free from excessive materialism. He emphasized ethical living, which includes vegetarianism, non-violence, and honesty. He believed that living a life of simplicity and purity helps to purify the mind and soul, paving the way for spiritual progress.

6. Service to Humanity (Seva)

• Vallalar taught that selfless service to others is a vital part of spiritual practice. He believed that serving others, especially the needy, is a way to express divine love and compassion. His own life was a testament to this principle, as he dedicated himself to helping the poor and alleviating suffering.

7. Spiritual Inclusivity

• Vallalar’s teachings were inclusive and universal. He rejected rituals and idol worship, focusing instead on the direct experience of the divine through love and compassion. He believed that the path to God is open to everyone, regardless of their religious background.

8. Promotion of Vegetarianism

• Vallalar was a strong advocate for vegetarianism, viewing it as an extension of his principle of compassion for all life. He believed that abstaining from meat is essential for maintaining purity of the mind and body and for advancing on the spiritual path.

9. Rejection of Caste System

• Vallalar was a vocal critic of the caste system, which he saw as a man-made division that hinders spiritual growth and social harmony. He called for the eradication of caste-based discrimination and promoted equality among all people.

10. The Sathya Gnana Sabhai (Hall of True Wisdom)

• Vallalar established the Sathya Gnana Sabhai in Vadalur as a place for spiritual seekers to gather and meditate. The hall symbolizes the light of divine wisdom and is free from religious symbols, reflecting Vallalar’s belief in a universal approach to spirituality.

These principles reflect Vallalar’s deep commitment to a life of spiritual purity, compassion, and universal love. His teachings continue to guide those who seek to live a life aligned with these values.

Books

There are several books written about the life and teachings of Swami Vallalar (Ramalinga Swamigal). These biographies and works provide insights into his spiritual journey, principles, and the impact of his teachings. Here are some notable books on Swami Vallalar:

1. “Arutprakasa Vallalar: A Saint of Universal Compassion” by T. S. Avinashilingam

• This book provides an in-depth look at Vallalar’s life, his spiritual teachings, and his emphasis on universal compassion. It explores his philosophy in the context of his time and the enduring relevance of his messages.

2. “Thiru Arutpa” (The Divine Song of Grace) by Ramalinga Swamigal

• While not a biography, this is a collection of Vallalar’s devotional hymns and poems, which reflect his spiritual insights and teachings. Many of these writings contain autobiographical elements, offering glimpses into his inner spiritual experiences.

3. “Vallalarum Jeevakarunyamum” by Arumugha Navalar

• This Tamil book focuses on Vallalar’s life, with an emphasis on his principle of Jeeva Karunya (compassion for all living beings). It is a valuable resource for understanding the compassionate aspects of Vallalar’s teachings.

4. “Arutperunjothi Vallalar” by A. S. Kuppusamy

• A comprehensive biography that covers the key events in Vallalar’s life, his spiritual development, and his establishment of the Sathya Gnana Sabhai (Hall of True Wisdom). The book is written in Tamil and is well-regarded for its detailed exploration of Vallalar’s life and works.

5. “Vallalar: The Light of Grace” by Swami Sahajananda

• This book provides an accessible introduction to Vallalar’s life and teachings, focusing on his message of universal love and the transformative power of divine grace. It is written in English and is suitable for both newcomers and those familiar with Vallalar’s work.

6. “Ramalinga Swamigal Life and Teachings” by A. Ganesan

• This book offers a concise biography of Vallalar, along with an exploration of his key teachings. It provides context for his spiritual contributions and their lasting impact on Tamil culture and spirituality.

7. “Arutpa and Other Writings” by Swami Ramalingam

• A compilation of Vallalar’s writings, including autobiographical notes, philosophical essays, and poetry. This collection provides insights into his thoughts on spirituality, compassion, and the divine light.

These books are available in various languages, including Tamil and English, and provide a comprehensive understanding of Swami Vallalar’s life, philosophy, and spiritual legacy.