15 Facts About Eripatha Nayanar

Eripatha Nayanar is generally counted as the eighth in the list of 63 Nayanars.

The life of Eripatha Nayanar is described in the Periya Puranam by Sekkizhar, which is a hagiography of the 63 Nayanars.

Eripatha Nayanar belonged to Karuvur, generally identified as the Indian city of Karur, which is famous for its Pasupateeswarar temple dedicated to the patron god of Shaivism, Shiva.

Eripatha Nayanar is one of the few Nayanars, whose caste is not mentioned in the Periya Puranam.

Eripatha Nayanar is said to be a devotee of Shiva and worshipped him daily at the shrine of Pasupateeswarar.

Eripatha Nayanar spent his time serving Shiva and his devotees.

Eripatha Nayanar always carried an axe with him for protection of the devotees of Shiva.

Eripatha Nayanar would punish any one who harmed the devotees by his axe.

Eripatha Nayanar caught up with the elephant and not only slew the beast, but its mahout and accompanying guards who failed in their duty to control the elephant.

Eripatha Nayanar informed him of the events leading to the killing and said that he had punished them for a sin against Shiva.

Eripatha Nayanar was taken aback by the king's devotion and actions and felt remorseful.

Eripatha Nayanar thought it would be best to commit suicide by the sword as penance for the murders.

Eripatha Nayanar was given the honour of seating on the royal elephant, while the king held the royal umbrella over his head, like a slave.

Eripatha Nayanar is depicted with a shaven head, with folded hands and with an axe in crook of his hand.

Eripatha Nayanar receives collective worship as part of the 63 Nayanars.