Page:Madras journal of literature and science vol 2 new series 1857.djvu/55

APRIL — JUNE 1857.] The Tamil Epic Ghiniamaiii. 45 is truly interesting and valuable disseminated in Europe, it must not be overlooked that in the country itself it is of the utmost consequence to the progress of sound scholarship and correct taste that the best authors be brought to light, and if possible, published, under proper editorial supervision and responsibility.

Much, it is admitted, »that is found in the indigenous literature even of the best periods, is, like some portions of the works of Greece and Rome, unfit for general perusal. The works of real value should notwithstanding be published and rescued from oblivion. In the course of time they may be expurgated; objectionable sentiments and passages eliminated; thus separated from the vile, the precious would have an enduring value.

These general remarks are intended to introduce to more partiticular notice the Classical work entitled Chintamani.

It is the opinion of native scholars that the Epic Chintamani, which was composed by Terudevar sometimes called Tiruttakkadevar, was written about two thousand years ago, the author was a Jaina and resided at Mylapore, now a suburb of Madras : although this opinion may be incorrect, no doubt the work in question is very ancient; it was doubtless written several centuries ago. This celebrated work is one of the five classical productions which are regarded as undisputed authorities in all matters relating to Tamil philology.

The five works are Chintamani, Chillapadikaram, Valleiyapalhi, Kundalakesi, Manimekalei.

The book under notice contains the heroic story of a King named Jivaka; his history is also found in the Maha Purana, a work written in Sanscrit. This Purana belongs to the Jainas, and, of course, is not one of the celebrated eighteen.

The author of Chintamani is regarded by all Tamil Scholars, ancient and modern, as one of the most learned men that ever appeared. It is said that he was acquainted with Agatteyam and Tolkappeyam, the celebrated ancient Tamil Grammars; and that he was deeply read in all the best works then extant in the Sanscrit language, including the Sacred Vedas. The best writers in the Tamil language refer to this work in illustration of their forms of con-