Enigma of Jagannath Temple's Third Step: Unveiling the Riddles Hidden Within
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Celebrations kick off in Puri as Lord Jagannath's Rath Yatra begins!
Get ready for a spiritual spectacle! The vibrant Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, alongside his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, commenced today in the holy city of Puri, Odisha. Devotees from every nook and cranny of the globe have flocked to be a part of this grand procession, immersed in the divine presence.
This prestigious annual event takes place during the Ashadh Shukla Paksha of the Hindu calendar month Asadh.
Nestled amidst the hallowed grounds of the magnificent Jagannath Temple, one of the revered Char Dhams of Hinduism, lies a cornucopia of mystical traditions and ancient secrets. One such enigma is the third step at the temple's entrance, known as 'Yamashila' or 'Yama's stone'.
Decoding the Lore Behind the Yamashila
Climbing the 22 hallowed steps to enter the Jagannath Temple isn't just an ascension; it's a spiritual journey. However, the third step is a mystery worth demystifying. Known as Yamashila, this stone is steeped in religious stories, shrouded in intrigue.
Legend has it that Yamraj, the Hindu god of death, once visited Lord Jagannath due to a predicament. Yamraj was troubled because no souls were making their way to his domain. Fascinatingly, as per the myth, merely seeing Lord Jagannath was believed to bestow salvation upon devotees, granting them release from the journey to Yamlok (the land of the dead).
Overwhelmed and grateful, Yamraj decided to reside on the third step of the temple's entrance. Lord Jagannath, in his divine wisdom, declared, "He who steps on this stair after seeing me shall be freed of sins, but shall come to your abode." And so, this step was forever known as Yamashila.
Devotees, ever mindful of their faith, largely avoid stepping directly on this stone, especially after witnessing the divine sight of Lord Jagannath. Many even choose to touch it reverently and continue over it, ensuring their feet don't land directly upon it.
Spotting the Yamashila
To make the tradition effortless for devotees, the temple authorities have cleverly distinguised the Yamashila by painting it black, setting it apart from the other 21 steps.
The spiritual journey at the Jagannath Temple includes the Yamashila, a mystery-laden third step attributed to Yamraj, the Hindu god of death. This painted black step, distinctive from the other 21, holds religious significance as it represents the path to salvation for those who have witnessed Lord Jagannath, yet choose to avoid direct contact due to respect and faith.
Incorporating the cultural-travel element, a visit to Puri during the Rath Yatra presents an intriguing opportunity to experience both the grand spectacle and the enigma behind the Yamashila, an essential part of the temple's rich history. Travelers seeking a unique blend of spiritual exploration and cultural immersion can embark on a journey that combines travel and lifestyle, unraveling the stories hidden within the ancient walls of the Jagannath Temple.
