Why Some Iyengars Prefer Narayana Over Lord Shiva, Subrahmanya, and Ayyappa

The diverse spiritual landscape of India is replete with various deities and their followers. Among these diverse sects are the Iyengars, a subgroup of Vaishnavites who prioritize their devotion to Narayana (Vishnu) and the Narayana-driven philosophy.

Orthodox Iyengar Beliefs and Practices

Many orthodox Iyengars believe that worshipping deities such as Lord Shiva, Lord Subrahmanya, and Lord Ayyappa is unnecessary. They argue that the same benefits can be achieved through the worship of Narayana, offering an alternative and more direct path to spiritual growth.

According to Iyengars, Shiva, Subrahmanya, and Ayyappa are creations of Narayana, serving as elite figures who assist in achieving moksha (liberation) under his instructions. Thus, their role could be seen as a more convoluted and less efficient route to spiritual fulfillment. This is akin to seeking help from a commoner who would in turn take you to the king, possibly not representing your interests adequately the first time.

Philosophical Underpinnings

These beliefs are deeply rooted in a hierarchical view of the divine, where each deity serves as an intermediary or an extension of Narayana. While Iyengars do not hate these deities but rather view them as creations, they question their independent spiritual value.

Orthodox Vaishnava Belief and Practice

Orthodox Vaishnava traditions, such as the followers of Srī Vaīshnavās, strictly adhere to the teachings of revered acharyas like Srī Krishna Bhagavān. They believe that worshipping deities other than Narayana is unnecessary and even misleading. This belief is rooted in their interpretation of scriptural mandates and philosophical doctrines.

For instance, in the Mahābhārata, diversas versions of the scriptures provide guidance on the focus of spiritual devotion. One such passage emphasizes the divine attributes of Narayana and the limited benefits of other deities:

“The wise ones do not worship Brahmā, Shiva, and other deities mentioned in Smritis because the fruits they offer are limited.”

This viewpoint is also supported by revered acharyas such as Srī Parāshara Bhattar and Srī Vedānta Desikan, who have quoted these scriptural verses in their works, emphasizing the singular worship of Narayana as the most effective route to spiritual liberation.

In the Mahābhārata’s Harivamsha, another important text for Vaishnavites, it is stated:

“Hari alone is to be meditated upon by you all who are established in sattva! By the praNava mantra ‘Om,’ you must always recite and meditate Keshava.”

This belief is further reiterated by revered scholars like Srī Shankara Bhagavatpāda and Srī Vedānta Desikan, emphasizing the importance of Narayana and the pranava mantra as the ultimate path.

Conclusion

It is evident that the preference of some Iyengars for Narayana over Shiva, Subrahmanya, and Ayyappa is not driven by hatred but by a deep-seated philosophical and scriptural understanding. For these devotees, the path of Narayana offers a more direct and efficacious route to spiritual liberation and devotion.

Orthodox Iyengars and Vaishnavites maintain that the core beliefs and practices stem from a holistic and deeply spiritual understanding, NOT driven by hatred. They ensure that their beliefs are transmitted and practiced with due respect and reverence for all deities.

Embrace the diverse spiritual paths that India offers, for each has its own unique value and significance!