The Story of Eyarkon Kalikkama Nayanar

In the Chozha kingdom, a brilliant general named Eyarkon Kalikkama Nayanar was a devout follower of Shiva. He was known for his fierce devotion to the god and his service to Shiva's devotees.

One day, he heard about another great saint, Sundarar, who had the audacity to ask Shiva to act as a messenger to his wife. Eyarkon was outraged. He believed it was a great sin for a devotee to command the Lord in such a way, and he became angry with Sundarar for his perceived lack of reverence.

To teach Eyarkon the true nature of devotion and the love Shiva had for Sundarar, Shiva afflicted Eyarkon with a terrible stomach illness. When Eyarkon cried out in pain, the Lord revealed that only Sundarar could cure him. Eyarkon, however, was so proud and devoted that he refused to be healed by the very person he had criticized. He saw it as a travesty that he, who only relied on Shiva, would have to seek help from a man who treated the Lord like a servant.

Meanwhile, Shiva appeared to Sundarar and asked him to go and heal Eyarkon. Sundarar, full of humility, agreed and began his journey. Eyarkon heard that Sundarar was on his way. In his frustration, he decided that he would rather die than be healed by Sundarar. He drew his sword and, in a desperate act, stabbed himself, ending his life to free himself from the pain.

When Sundarar arrived, Eyarkon's wife, a devout woman herself, hid her husband's body so that their guest would not be disturbed. But Sundarar insisted on seeing the sick man. When he discovered Eyarkon's lifeless body, he was so heartbroken and filled with guilt that he too drew a dagger to end his own life.

At that moment, by Shiva's grace, Eyarkon was brought back to life. He immediately got up and stopped Sundarar from harming himself. The two devotees, filled with newfound respect for each other, fell at each other's feet. Eyarkon finally understood that Shiva's actions were a testament to Sundarar's deep love, not a sign of disrespect. They became great friends and praised the Lord together. Eyarkon Kalikkama Nayanar's story is a beautiful lesson in the complexities of devotion and how true love for God can transcend pride and judgment.