Vallalar: The Saint of Universal Compassion
Vallalar, also known as Ramalinga Swamigal or Arutprakasa Vallalar, was a revered 19th-century Tamil saint, poet, and spiritual leader. Born in 1823 in Marudhur, Tamil Nadu, Vallalar is celebrated for his teachings on universal compassion, spiritual enlightenment, and the importance of non-violence.
Vallalar’s spiritual journey began early in life, and he became known for his profound love for all living beings. He emphasized the concept of “Jeeva Karunya,” which translates to compassion for all forms of life. This principle became the cornerstone of his teachings, advocating that true spirituality lies in serving others and practicing kindness without discrimination.
One of Vallalar’s most significant contributions was the establishment of the Sathya Gnana Sabhai (Hall of True Wisdom) in Vadalur. This spiritual center, devoid of idol worship, symbolizes the light of divine knowledge and is open to people of all faiths. Vallalar believed that spiritual enlightenment was accessible to everyone, regardless of caste, creed, or religion.
Vallalar also composed numerous devotional hymns and poems, collectively known as “Thiru Arutpa,” which express his deep spiritual insights and devotion to the divine. His writings reflect his commitment to promoting love, peace, and unity among humanity.
A key aspect of Vallalar’s teachings was his focus on a simple, ethical lifestyle. He practiced and preached vegetarianism, non-violence, and self-discipline, believing that these practices purify the mind and lead to spiritual growth.
Vallalar is remembered as a beacon of universal love and compassion. His teachings continue to inspire millions, urging them to live a life of kindness, humility, and service to others. Vallalar’s legacy is one of spiritual inclusivity, emphasizing that the path to enlightenment is through love and compassion for all beings.
Vallalar philosophy
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.
1. Jeeva Karunya (Compassion for All Life)
2. Universal Brotherhood
3. Spiritual Enlightenment
4. Arut Perum Jothi (The Divine Light of Grace)
5. Simple and Ethical Living
6. Service to Humanity (Seva)
7. Spiritual Inclusivity
8. Promotion of Vegetarianism
9. Rejection of Caste System
10. The Sathya Gnana Sabhai (Hall of True Wisdom)
Vallalar philosophy
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.
1. Jeeva Karunya (Compassion for All Life)
2. Universal Brotherhood
3. Spiritual Enlightenment
4. Arut Perum Jothi (The Divine Light of Grace)
5. Simple and Ethical Living
6. Service to Humanity (Seva)
7. Spiritual Inclusivity
8. Promotion of Vegetarianism
9. Rejection of Caste System
10. The Sathya Gnana Sabhai (Hall of True Wisdom)
Vallalar early life
Vallalar, also known as Ramalinga Swamigal or Arutprakasa Vallalar, was born as Ramalingam on October 5, 1823, in Marudhur, a small village near Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu, India. His early life was marked by both spiritual inclination and challenging circumstances that shaped his future as a saint and spiritual leader.
Family Background
Ramalingam was born into a devout Saivaite family. His father, Ramiah Pillai, and mother, Chinnammai, were deeply religious and belonged to the Vellalar community, known for their devotion to Lord Shiva. The family moved to the town of Chinnakavanam, near Chennai, when Ramalingam was still very young. Unfortunately, his father passed away when Ramalingam was just six months old, leaving the family in a difficult financial situation.
Education and Challenges
Due to the family’s financial difficulties after his father’s death, Ramalingam did not receive formal education in the conventional sense. Instead, he was tutored at home by his elder brother, Sabapathy, who was a learned scholar. However, Ramalingam showed little interest in traditional studies, preferring instead to immerse himself in religious activities and meditation. This caused some tension in the household, as his brother initially failed to understand Ramalingam’s spiritual inclinations.
Early Recognition
As Ramalingam grew, his reputation as a young mystic and poet spread. He attracted followers who were drawn to his spiritual wisdom and humility. Despite his growing fame, Ramalingam remained humble, living a simple and ascetic life, focused on his devotion to the divine and his mission of spreading the message of universal love and compassion.
Vallalar Three Rules
1. Jeeva Karunya (Compassion for All Life)
The foremost rule in Vallalar’s teachings is the principle of Jeeva Karunya, which means showing compassion and kindness to all living beings. Vallalar believed that true spirituality is manifested in how we treat others, including animals and plants. This principle emphasizes non-violence (Ahimsa) and advocates for a vegetarian lifestyle as an expression of love and respect for all forms of life.
2. Suddha Sanmargam (Path of Pure Truth)
Vallalar promoted the Suddha Sanmargam, or the “Path of Pure Truth,” which involves living a life of purity, honesty, and righteousness. This path is free from the influences of ego, greed, and materialism. Vallalar encouraged his followers to seek spiritual enlightenment through inner purity and to lead lives that are in harmony with the universal truths. This includes practicing humility, self-discipline, and ethical conduct in all aspects of life.
3. Arut Perum Jothi (Divine Grace Light)
The third rule is centered on the realization and experience of Arut Perum Jothi, the “Divine Grace Light.” Vallalar taught that this divine light represents the ultimate truth and source of all creation. He believed that individuals should strive to connect with this light through meditation, devotion, and selfless service. This connection leads to spiritual awakening and the dissolution of the ego, allowing one to experience oneness with the divine.
Vallalar Three Rules
1. Jeeva Karunya (Compassion for All Life)
The foremost rule in Vallalar’s teachings is the principle of Jeeva Karunya, which means showing compassion and kindness to all living beings. Vallalar believed that true spirituality is manifested in how we treat others, including animals and plants. This principle emphasizes non-violence (Ahimsa) and advocates for a vegetarian lifestyle as an expression of love and respect for all forms of life.
2. Suddha Sanmargam (Path of Pure Truth)
Vallalar promoted the Suddha Sanmargam, or the “Path of Pure Truth,” which involves living a life of purity, honesty, and righteousness. This path is free from the influences of ego, greed, and materialism. Vallalar encouraged his followers to seek spiritual enlightenment through inner purity and to lead lives that are in harmony with the universal truths. This includes practicing humility, self-discipline, and ethical conduct in all aspects of life.
3. Arut Perum Jothi (Divine Grace Light)
The third rule is centered on the realization and experience of Arut Perum Jothi, the “Divine Grace Light.” Vallalar taught that this divine light represents the ultimate truth and source of all creation. He believed that individuals should strive to connect with this light through meditation, devotion, and selfless service. This connection leads to spiritual awakening and the dissolution of the ego, allowing one to experience oneness with the divine.
Influence of His Early Life
The hardships and spiritual experiences of Ramalingam’s early life significantly influenced his later teachings. His emphasis on compassion, simplicity, and the rejection of materialism can be traced back to his early years of poverty and spiritual longing. These experiences also instilled in him a deep empathy for the suffering of others, which became a central theme in his teachings.
Vallalar’s early life was a blend of spiritual devotion and personal challenges, all of which played a crucial role in shaping him into the revered saint and spiritual leader he became. His teachings continue to inspire and guide countless individuals on the path of compassion and spiritual enlightenment.
The Event of Disappearance
In the months leading up to his disappearance, Vallalar had been increasingly withdrawing from public life, spending more time in deep meditation and spiritual practices. He had often spoken about the impermanence of the physical body and his desire to transcend it.
On January 30, 1874, Vallalar entered a small room in his residence in Mettukuppam, a village near Vadalur in Tamil Nadu. He instructed his followers not to open the door or disturb him. According to his teachings, Vallalar believed that the physical body could be transformed into a form of pure light through spiritual realization.
After he entered the room, the door was closed from the inside. Days passed without any sign of Vallalar, and eventually, his followers, concerned about his well-being, opened the door. To their astonishment, they found the room empty. Vallalar had disappeared without a trace, leaving no physical remains behind. This event is considered by his followers as a form of spiritual ascension or “siddhi,” where his physical body merged with the divine light, Arut Perum Jothi.
The Event of Disappearance
In the months leading up to his disappearance, Vallalar had been increasingly withdrawing from public life, spending more time in deep meditation and spiritual practices. He had often spoken about the impermanence of the physical body and his desire to transcend it.
On January 30, 1874, Vallalar entered a small room in his residence in Mettukuppam, a village near Vadalur in Tamil Nadu. He instructed his followers not to open the door or disturb him. According to his teachings, Vallalar believed that the physical body could be transformed into a form of pure light through spiritual realization.
After he entered the room, the door was closed from the inside. Days passed without any sign of Vallalar, and eventually, his followers, concerned about his well-being, opened the door. To their astonishment, they found the room empty. Vallalar had disappeared without a trace, leaving no physical remains behind. This event is considered by his followers as a form of spiritual ascension or “siddhi,” where his physical body merged with the divine light, Arut Perum Jothi.