The Life
Sakkiya was born in Thirucchangamangai (Sangamangai) in a land then thronged with Buddhist monks, and outwardly he took the robe and learning of the Buddhists. Yet his heart, seeking the highest truth, turned to Shiva. One day, passing a Shiva linga, he instinctively flung a stone at it in reverence, and felt such joy that he understood this was the Lord's chosen way for him. Thereafter he made it his fixed vow to cast a single stone at the linga each day before taking food, offering it with pure love. Once, sitting down to eat, he remembered he had not thrown his stone; unmindful of hunger he rushed to the shrine and hurled it. Pleased by such unwavering devotion, Shiva appeared before him and granted him liberation and a place at His feet.