Andal’s Garland: How Pure Devotion Becomes an Offering
Andal’s Garland: How Pure Devotion Becomes an Offering Andal did not offer objects to the Divine . She offered what had already touched her inner life . A garland , in ritual language, is decorative. In Andal’s hands, it became existential . Her offering was not about purity of flowers, correctness of ritual, or public sanctity. It was about transfer —the movement of inner sincerity into outer form. The garland mattered not because it was flawless, but because it had passed through her presence, her care , her attention. This is where Andal quietly redefined devotion . The Difference Between Giving and Offering Giving can be external. Offering is always internal first. Most religious acts focus on what is offered. Andal focused on who is offering. Her garland was not separate from her life. It carried her breath, her intention, her unedited love. She did not ask, “Is this acceptable?” She asked, “Is this true?” True devotion does not manufacture holiness. It tr...
