(i) The chanters of this decad are assured of the attainment of the final goal, namely, eternal service unto the Lord. The Āzhvār describes himself as the vassal unto him that stands last in the long chain of the Lord’s devotees, steepep [steeped?] in His loving service. Evidently, this sets the pace for the decad, that immediately follows, highlighting service unto the
In this concluding pāśuram, as our venerable ācāryas such as Nañjīyar have illuminated, Āzhvār mercifully reveals the ultimate fruit (phala) of mastering this sacred chapter: the attainment of bhagavath kainkaryam, which stands as the most perfect and fitting goal for the true nature of the ātmā. Those who have faithfully practiced and attained this chapter,