The Writings of Devala Avatar: A Journey Through Seven Incarnations

Devala, a revered sage and philosopher, is believed to have incarnated seven times to fulfill a divine purpose – to create the threads and cloths used by gods and men. But his contributions did not stop at just the crafting of cloth. Devala went on to rule over a kingdom and became an influential teacher, spreading wisdom and knowledge through religion and philosophy. Each of his seven avatars came with a distinct body of work, contributing to the rich tapestry of Vedic literature. Below is a detailed account of the writings attributed to Devala in each of his seven avatars.

---

Avatar 1: Devala

Devala’s first incarnation focused on the essential craft of weaving, providing both divine and human use of cloth. This avatar set the foundation for his later works of philosophy, religion, and governance. His early contributions centered on preserving sacred texts and ensuring the spiritual well-being of his followers, although specific texts from this incarnation are less documented.

---

Avatar 2: Vidyadhara Avatar

In his second incarnation as Vidyadhara, Devala embraced a deeper understanding of philosophy, weaving intricate thoughts into sacred texts and sutras. Some of the critical writings attributed to him during this avatar include:

1. Rig-Bhashya – A commentary on the Rigveda, shedding light on the deeper meanings of the Vedic hymns.
2. Manu Sutra – A collection of aphorisms that outlined principles of righteousness and duties for different classes of society.
3. Sandhya Sutra – A set of guidelines for the Sandhya (rituals and prayers performed during dawn, noon, and dusk).
4. Manu Smriti – A text attributed to Manu, often considered one of the foundations of Hindu law, with contributions from Devala on social and moral conduct.
5. Devalopanidhi – A treatise focusing on spiritual knowledge and the unity of existence.
6. Devaraja Chandas – A work that explores the divine nature of kingship.
7. Deval-Jemini Vada – A philosophical dialogue or argument concerning the nature of the self and reality.
8. Varnashrama Mahodadhi – A comprehensive text on the duties and responsibilities according to one’s caste (varna) and stage of life (ashrama).
9. Brahma Sutra Nighantu – A text that provides interpretations of the Brahma Sutras, guiding seekers toward the knowledge of Brahman.
10. Manu Jnana Sikhamani – A work discussing the wisdom encapsulated in Manu’s teachings and how they guide an individual to enlightenment.

---

Avatar 3: Pushpadanta Avatar

In his third avatar, Devala incarnated as Pushpadanta, a sage known for his devotional hymns and metaphysical musings. His contributions during this period centered around Shiva's worship and the Vedantic philosophy. Critical writings from this incarnation include:

1. Sivamahimna Stotra – A hymn extolling the greatness and glory of Lord Shiva.
2. Meru Charitra – A text detailing the life and significance of Mount Meru in Hindu cosmology.
3. Vedantakush – A work that provides insights into Vedanta, the philosophy that emphasizes the oneness of the individual soul with Brahman.
4. Brahmopadesh Sidhanta – A treatise on the ultimate teachings of Brahman and the paths leading to spiritual realization.
5. Devi Bhagavat – A sacred text that narrates the story of the Divine Mother, Devi, and her divine attributes.
6. Deva Ratnakara – A jewel of divine wisdom containing hymns and philosophies.
7. Devaraja Sekhara – A work that explores the divine nature of rulers, particularly in relation to Lord Shiva.
8. Uttara Meemamsa – A philosophical text exploring the later part of Vedic knowledge, mainly focusing on ritual and the nature of truth.
9. Sujnana Deepika – A guide to wisdom, providing clarity on the complex concepts of spiritual knowledge.

---

Avatar 4: Betala Avatar

In his fourth avatar as Betala, Devala studied and practiced various practical sciences, martial arts, and tantra. His writings during this period reflect a unique blend of mysticism, astrology, and warfare. The key works of Betala Avatar include:

1. Chatuhu Shasthikala Sutra – A text that outlines the principles of the fourfold discipline (Shasthikala).
2. Dhanushastra – A treatise on archery and the use of the bow, an essential part of ancient warfare.
3. Betala Panchatantra – A collection of tales imparting moral lessons through stories involving Betala.
4. Betalakhyana – A narrative focused on the exploits and wisdom of Betala.
5. Bhoo Sukta – A Vedic hymn that praises the earth and its nurturing power.
6. Smara Shastra – A text focused on love and attraction, often called the science of desire.
7. Mallasadhana Nirnaya – A work discussing the art of wrestling and physical prowess.
8. Mahabhairava Sukta – A hymn dedicated to Lord Bhairava, a fierce aspect of Shiva.
9. Mantra Shastra – A comprehensive guide on using mantras and their mystical powers.

---

Avatar 5: Vararuchi Avatar

In his fifth incarnation, Vararuchi, Devala wrote extensively on astronomy, grammar, mathematics, and sacred texts. This avatar marked the sage's foray into the scientific realms. Some of the most significant works from this period include:

1. Praktira Prakasha – A text on the illumination of practice and the nature of worldly existence.
2. Sutra Tatwa Nighantu – A compilation of sutras (aphorisms) outlining essential principles of various sciences.
3. Katha Ganita Shastra – A treatise on the mathematics of katha (numerical systems).
4. Chandra Sidhanta – A work on lunar astronomy, explaining the movements and influence of the moon.
5. Surya Sidhanta – A text on solar astronomy and the sun's influence on Earth.
6. Trilinga Datta Meemamsa – A treatise on the teachings of the Trilinga Datta sect.
7. Srutishat Sutra Nirnaya – A work providing explanations and interpretations of Vedic texts.
8. Kaumudi Shabda Shastra – A guide to the science of language and words.
9. Vastavyu Nirnaya – A treatise on architecture and spatial sciences.
10. Bhaga Shastra – A text on the science of fortune and destiny.
11. Yoni Tantra – A mystical treatise exploring the principles of Tantra.
12. Chandojnam – A work on meter and rhythm in Sanskrit poetry.
13. Sandhi Sutram – A text on the rules of sound combinations in language.
14. Kanasanyaya Bodhini – A treatise explaining the legal or philosophical rules in a codified manner.
15. Nara Pingali Shastra – A work dedicated to understanding human behavior.
16. Lakshana Darshana – A treatise on metaphysical perceptions and the nature of reality.
17. Swara Shastra – A work on the science of sounds and musical notes.
18. VedangamaLayurveda – A treatise that intertwines the knowledge of Ayurveda with the Vedic systems.
19. Yetadvimshati Shastra – A collection of twenty distinct shastras on various subjects.

---

Avatar 6: Devashali Avatar

In his sixth incarnation, Devala, Devashali, focused on the subtle aspects of spirituality, knowledge, and divine revelation. His writings during this period are philosophical and practical, guiding individuals towards wisdom and enlightenment:

1. Paramanya Vadah – A philosophical discourse on the highest truths and the nature of divinity.
2. Sujnana Deepika – A text providing wisdom on self-realization and knowledge.
3. Jnana Manjari – A collection of insights into spiritual knowledge designed to awaken the intellect.
4. Sujnana Ratnamala – A compilation of the most precious pearls of wisdom.
5. Sadvada Jnana Manjari – A text exploring the essence of proper knowledge and understanding.
6. Panchasikha Nirnaya – A philosophical work on the five fundamental principles of spiritual knowledge.
7. Devakalpatmadarpana – A treatise discussing divine knowledge and its application.
8. Purvapara Prayoga – A text that explains the use of sacred knowledge in daily life.
9. Deva Rahasya is a revelation of divine secrets that guides the seeker toward ultimate truth.
10. Satkarma Jnana Prabodhaka – A work aimed at awakening one’s consciousness through good deeds and righteous actions.

---

Avatar 7: Devadasa Avatar

In his seventh and final incarnation, Devala took on the name Devadasa and embraced the Kannada language. He wrote a collection of Vachanas, devotional poems that embodied his philosophical teachings. These poems were not just expressions of piety but profound reflections on humans.