THIRUPPAVAI
Sri.U.Ve.Elayavilli Bhuvarahachariyar Swami

KEESU KEESU

In this stanza, from the two addresses in vocative case PEY PENNE! and NAYAKA PPENPILLAY, which are diametrically opposite in meaning, we are to understand that they are said out of love and affection for the sleeping girl.  Whatever may be the apparent contradiction, the inner feeling is most important while moving with Sri Vaishnavas.

 

In this stanza, from the two addresses in vocative case PEY PENNE! and NAYAKA PPENPILLAY, which are diametrically opposite in meaning, we are to understand that they are said out of love and affection for the sleeping girl.  Whatever may be the apparent contradiction, the inner feeling is most important while moving with Sri Vaishnavas.

In the 6000-Padi commentary we find very interesting and enlightening comments and to illustrate them an episode narrated with exquisite charm. Having woken up a handful of girls Andal could have proceeded on to Krishna. Why go to EVERY house? If one is a Sri Vaishnava he should think of the welfare of ALL- not just a few. Not even a single girl should lose the golden opportunity of getting the grace of Sri Krishna. A man's relationship with Sriman Narayana is true only if he rejoices at the good luck of another man as if it were his own son's. If he fails to feel that way he is no Sri Vaishnava.

ALKONDAVILLY JEEYAR, a sincere pupil of SRI RAMANUJA once met in Sri Rangam NANJEEYAR, the disciple of PARASARA BHATTAR. The former exclaimed," O Jeeyar!  Really I have not developed a taste for Bhagavad Vishaya (i.e., God)." Nanjeeyar was amazed and asked "How is this possible? you are the faithful student of Sri Ramanuja, serving him assiduously - still  you say this ?" The former said," If a man has real taste for Bhagavan he must enjoy the sweet company of His devotees. If not he is no Sri Vaishnava. Have we developed that pleasurable attitude towards Sri Vaishnavas? Hence I say so."

Unless the meeting, mingling and deriving supreme satisfaction and happiness in the company of Bhagavatas are secured here in this world (which is the intensive training ground for our life in Sri Vaikuntha), the Moksha will not be delectable. NAMMAZHWAR says at the end of Tiruvaymozhi," ADIYAARODU IRUNDAMAI". He aspired not for the mere union of the Lord but for the same in the company of His devotees, which alone would make it delectable.