The text is primarily known for its concise yet profound exposition of Saiva philosophy and ritual. It is typically divided into sections known as , which are standard in Agamic literature: Jnana Pada (Knowledge):
The Agamas are broadly divided into Saiva, Vaishnava, and Shakta traditions. The 28 Saiva Agamas, which form the basis of Saiva Siddhanta philosophy and temple ritual, are categorized into Sivabheda (monistic) and Rudrabheda (qualified monistic) groups. vatula agama pdf