[2] The anthology is considered one of the central works of medieval Tamil literature, both for its poetical and musical qualities, and for its religious, moral and philosophical content.
According to Tamil legends, Murugan was the brave warrior who defeated the powerful demon Surapadman,[5] and was seen as being the epitome of youth, compassion and beauty.
The songs also deal with issues of morality and living a virtuous life on Earth, with many exhorting people to seek true happiness in God.
In secular poetry, the image of bees entering flowers symbolises the clandestine union of lovers, and the backdrop of the hills calls to mind the raw forces of nature.
The union which Arunagirinathar uses this to symbolise, however, is that of the soul with God, and the imagery specifically calls to mind the legend of Murugan's wooing of Valli, the daughter of a Kurava chief.