P20241 Modern Christian poems and Prayers

This lesson introduces us to traditional as well as modern Christian poems. We also learn about Christian prayer songs. We are able to understand the nature of Christian poetry and its record trends. We find that poets practicing other religions also sing about Christ.

In the history of Tamil literature, the Christian contribution has been significant. The twentieth century Christian poetry has enriched Tamil literature.

Traditional Christian literature is devotional. It celebrates Tamil. The poems sing the glory of Jesus Christ. They present the essence of the Bible. The devotional poems praise God, repent for sins and crewe for the grace of God.

The ‘new’ poets use interesting symbols and images. They describe the life of Christ.

Poets hailing from non Christian faiths, like Bharathiyar, Bharathidasan and Kannadhasan have also written on Christian themes. Cha.Thu.Su.Yogi describes the beauty of Mary Magdalene. Cirpi brings out the horror of the crucifixion in his Ciluvai Thavayogi.

The Christian lyrics or Keerthanaikal are set in specific tunes (Raagam) and beats (Thaalam) Vedanayagam sasthri, John Palmar and Mariyal Upathesiyar were great composers. These songs glorify, the birth of Christ, Good Friday etc., There are songs for morning and evening.

The second type are called Putheluchi Paadalkal. The Salvation army had a major role in this. The music, feelings and profound thoughts in these songs appeal to everyone. The songs are based on the following themes. Glory of God; thanks giving, consolation etc., The folksongs are set to the tunes of Cinthupaadal and Kummi. The Halleloyah song of Theophilas Appavu calls people to pray to God with dance, Melam and Thalam.