By Shantini Mogan
2 FEBRUARY: Murugan devotees hold Swamimalai in a special place in their hearts. According to legend, Parantaka Chola I constructed the temple at the beginning of the second century BC. This temple is significant as the site where the secret of the Pranava Mantra “Aum” was revealed. Swamimalai is the fourth of the six Aarupadaiveedu, the six most important temples dedicated to Lord Murugan in Tamil Nadu.
The Pranava Mantra (Aum), which means “cosmic sound” in Sanskrit, was explained by the young Murugan. Hindus believe that “Aum” is the source of everything and that the entire cosmos is formed from it. The legend of how Lord Murugan explained the meaning of this sacred sound to his father, Lord Shiva, is closely associated with Swamimalai.
According to the story, while Murugan was at Mount Kailash, he was disrespected by Brahma, the Lord of Creation. Playful yet wise, Murugan boldly questioned Brahma about the meaning of the Pranava Mantra “Aum.” When Brahma failed to answer and admitted his ignorance, Murugan imprisoned him, causing all of creation to come to a halt. The demigods pleaded with Lord Shiva to release Brahma, but Murugan insisted that Brahma’s ignorance deserved punishment.
Curious about his son’s wisdom, Lord Shiva then asked Murugan if he himself understood the meaning of “Aum.” Murugan confidently claimed to know but insisted that he would only explain it if Shiva acknowledged him as a guru and listened as a devoted disciple. When Lord Shiva agreed, the son became the teacher, and the father became the student. Murugan then revealed the profound meaning of the Pranava Mantra, and a humbled Shiva honored his son for his divine insight.
The main shrine in the Swamimalai temple complex reflects this legendary moment—Shiva is depicted as a disciple listening, while Murugan is shown as the teacher. This temple uniquely symbolizes the idea that the son is superior to the father, highlighting Murugan’s supreme wisdom.
