The correct answer is: D. All of the above
The Alvars and Nayanars were Tamil saints who lived in the 6th to 9th centuries CE. They were the earliest proponents of bhakti, a Hindu devotional movement that emphasizes personal devotion to a deity. The Alvars were devotees of Vishnu, while the Nayanars were devotees of Shiva.
The Alvars and Nayanars traveled from place to place singing hymns in Tamil in praise of their gods. These hymns, known as Divya Prabandham, are some of the most important texts in Tamil literature. The Alvars and Nayanars also identified certain shrines as abodes of their chosen deities. These shrines, known as Divya Desams, are still important pilgrimage sites today.
The Alvars and Nayanars were instrumental in spreading the bhakti movement throughout India. Their hymns and travels inspired millions of people to turn to devotion as a way of life. The Alvars and Nayanars are still revered today as some of the greatest saints in Hinduism.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option I: Some of the earliest bhakti movements (c. sixth century) were led by the Alvars (literally, those who are “immersed” in devotion to Vishnu) and Nayanars (literally, leaders who were devotees of Shiva).
This is correct. The Alvars and Nayanars were the earliest proponents of bhakti, a Hindu devotional movement that emphasizes personal devotion to a deity. The Alvars were devotees of Vishnu, while the Nayanars were devotees of Shiva.
- Option II: They travelled from place to place singing hymns in Tamil in praise of their gods.
This is also correct. The Alvars and Nayanars traveled from place to place singing hymns in Tamil in praise of their gods. These hymns, known as Divya Prabandham, are some of the most important texts in Tamil literature.
- Option III: During their travels the Alvars and Nayanars identified certain shrines as abodes of their chosen deities.
This is also correct. The Alvars and Nayanars identified certain shrines as abodes of their chosen deities. These shrines, known as Divya Desams, are still important pilgrimage sites today.