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About The Book: This book is a compilation of hymns derived from the Tamil hymn collections known as Devaram and Tiruvachagam. Among Tamil Saivites, the former is considered canonical. With a total of 136 stanzas, this book also includes brief biographical notes about the poets preceding their hymns. It's important to note that this edition is a reprint of the 1921 version. The authors express a desire to modify the commentary on stanza 17 (page 27), previously interpreted as intercession for others. Upon further analysis and comparison with similar hymns in Tamil religious poetry, they argue that the 'she' in the hymn refers to the devotee, drawing a parallel with a lovesick woman in stanza 19. These hymns offer valuable insights into the spirit of Hinduism and can be just as enlightening for non-Hindus as Christian hymns are for understanding Christianity. Given their widespread use in Tamil temples and households, reaching over eighteen million Tamil speakers, these hymns are deserving of exploration. Additionally, the book includes a few noteworthy illustrations. About The Authors: Francis Kingsbury was the offspring of C.W. Damodaram Pillai, the renowned pioneer-editor of Tamil literature. Despite being born into a Christian family, Pillai converted to Saivism early in life and raised his children in the strict Saivite tradition. In Pillai's will, there was a provision stipulating that any heir who embraced Christianity would forfeit their share of his property. Despite these precautions, his son eventually converted to Christianity. Kingsbury held an immense affection for the Tevaaram and the Tiruvaachakam, and he undertook the task of compiling an anthology of Saivite hymns along with their translations. He carefully selected 138 verses and translated them into English. He collaborated with his colleague. G.E. Phillips (1878-1963), an Englishman, who provided the metrical form for the hymns. Both Kingsbury and Phillips were associated with the United Theologi