TMS Murugan Songs 2

Sages, who have attained enlightenment through penance and contemplation, have set certain eternal principles to be followed. These principles which define an ideal way of life has come to be known as Sanathana Dharma. Time and again, there appeared saints to remind us of the need to adhere to these principles, the need to maintain our rich cultural heritage and the need to uphold our high spiritual values. The saints interpreted the Vedas in a lucid style and awakened the consciousness of the people. By explaining the worldly objects as material and spiritual, myths and reality, they stressed the ideals of truth and directed humanity to the correct destination. They have explained the relevance of these principles even in the changing world conditions. They continue to show us the path of perfection that leads to ultimate state of God realization and salvation.

Among many saints who guided humanity to the path of perfection, Arunagirinathar occupies a unique position. His songs not only kindled the flame of devotion in the minds of people but also the light of knowledge in their intellect. He showed the way to the life of virtue and righteousness. He showed the way to the Lotus Feet of Muruga.

Arunagirinathar was born* in 15th century at Thiruvannamalai. As his father expired soon after his birth, his mother, Muthamma and sister, Adhi, brought him up. They aspired to bring him up in the rich cultural and religious tradition. Arunagiri showed a receptive mind and even studied the scriptures but his interests turned towards sensual pleasure. The mother and sister were there to love him but the father was not there to discipline him. Overtaken by disease and dejection, Arunagiri decided to end his life and leaped from the tower of Thiruvannamalai temple. But rather than falling to the ground, he found himself in the hands of a saviour. “You are not born to die. You are born to save lives. You are not born to fall but make others rise. You are born to fulfill a divine mission. You are the chosen one to sing the glory of Lord Muruga..” The saviour, who was none other than Lord Muruga Himself, said. Arunagiri, who has been rescued from the darkness of death, now found himself before a power who radiated brilliant rays of brightness. He now got the vision of Lord Muruga.
source: http://www.geocities.com/vsk_tiruppugazh/Muruga3.html