7. Thiruvempaavai The inaidens: “Oh You with pearl-like white teeth! You used to come forward in the past and talk with over-whelming sweetness and say “Aththan! (Father) Aamanthan (He of *liss) Amuthan (He of Ambrosia) come and open Your doors!” The lady-love: “Oh devoted ones! Oh the ancient devotees of the Lord of the universe! Oh revered ones! Is it wrong if the Lord enslaves novices ridding them of their mt anness?” Maid is: “Oh Paavaai! How great is your love! Don't we all know of it? Won't people of pure heart sing of our Civan? (However) we deserve all these insinuations" (7:3) Maidens: "Oh You shining with pearl-like white teeth; Has it dawned yet?” Lady-lovel: “Have all my companions of colourful parrot-like speech come?” Maidens: “Oh our paavaai! We shall count and tell You the actual total. Meanwhile do not close your eyes in sleep and waste time. But as our mind is softening, thawing and melting with singing of the unique Medicine of the heavenly beings, the precious Principle of the Vedaas, the Delight to the eyes, we will not count. Better You come and count Yourself. If the number falls short you may go and sleep!” (7:4) 347
