Vaishnavism (Vaishnava dharma) is one of the major traditions within Hinduism along with Shaivism, Shaktism, and Smartism. It is also called Vishnuism, its followers are called Vaishnavas, and it considers Vishnu as the Supreme Lord. Traditionally, the Azhvars, or Saints, are twelve in number, though others deeply devoted to Sri Vishnu are also known as Azhvars. These great saints had pure love for Sri Vishnu, and led lives with deep faith and devotion for Him, inspiring others and guiding them on the righteous path. This book is written with young people in mind, from perhaps 10 to 15. Fully illustrated, the young readers will find the stories of lives of the traditional twelve Azhvars described in an inspirational way. Each life is introduced with a devotional hymn and is followed by a eulogy composed by Appillai.
I am the thread that runs through all these pearls, and each pearl is a religion or even a sect thereof. Such are the different pearls, and God is the thread that runs through all of them; most people, however, are entirely unconscious of it.
-Swami Vivekananda
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