The god of death is seated on the third step of the Jagannath temple, he invites the devotees to Yamlok
Jagannath Temple: One of the oldest and most revered religious places in India is the temple of Lord Jagannath in Puri. Every year thousands of devotees visit this place to participate in major celebrations like Rath Yatra. However, there is one unique aspect of this temple that is always discussed by people: not going on the third step. Why is the third step so unique? What is its connection with Yamraj? Tell us. Bhopal’s local astrologer and Vastu expert Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma is giving more information on this subject.
The temple gives salvation to the devotees
It is believed that Lord Jagannath is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He is worshipped along with his sister Subhadra and brother Balabhadra. The Jagannath Temple in Puri is considered one of the four Dhams, and it is said that devotees are freed from sins by coming here.
Out of the twenty-two steps of the temple, the rule of the third step from the bottom is different from the rest of the stairs. Devotees cross it with full devotion and do not set foot on it. This staircase is called “Yam Shila.”
1. Yamraj is sitting on the third step
It is said in traditional mythology that once Yamraj came to Puri to visit Lord Jagannath. He said that after visiting this temple, no person returns to Yamaloka because all his crimes are pardoned. Lord Jagannath smiled and said, “If this is so, then the third step of this temple should be considered as his place.”
The Lord decided that the devotee who climbs this staircase after darshan will have his sins forgiven, but he will also have to go to Yamaloka. Since then this (Third step) third step – known as Yam Shila – has become a symbol of Yamraj.
Due to this idea, a rule was made in the temple that after darshan of the Lord, no one should set foot on the third step. This guideline is not only related to religious beliefs but also serves as a kind of warning. Respecting the third step is like respecting Yamraj. Devotees are cautious while crossing it and take it very seriously.
2. God’s heart still beats
According to legend, at the time of Shri Krishna’s death, his entire body was transformed into the five elements. However, his heart remained alive. It is said that this heart, which beats slowly, is still safe inside the wooden idol of Shri Krishna. The ‘mysterious element’ kept inside is never changed, even though this idol is replaced every twelve years.
3. Why do the waves become calm
While standing outside the main gate of the temple, Singhdwar, one can easily hear the sound of the sea waves. However, the sound of waves suddenly stops as soon as one enters the temple. Although everyone experiences it, it is not an illusion. To date, no one has been able to figure out why this happens.
4. Ancient belief of changing the old flag
At the top of the temple, a flag flutters continuously in the opposite direction of the wind. This questions the laws of nature. There is also a belief that if its flag is not changed at some point in time, the temple will be closed for eighteen years. The flag is changed daily, as it is believed that it brings bad energy.
5. Mystery of seven earthen pots
One of the largest kitchens in the world is in the Jagannath temple. Here, utensils are placed one above the other to prepare food. However, what is noteworthy is that the topmost utensil cooks first, followed by the bottom utensil and then the bottommost utensil. This rule is followed every day, yet no one has been able to understand it.
6. Mysterious Shadow and Sudarshan Chakra
It seems as if the Sudarshan Chakra is staring at you from every angle as it is situated on top of the temple. From every angle, this chakra looks the same. The shadow falling on the temple spires is also a mystery. Despite being so high, the shadow of the temple is invisible from the ground. Science is also surprised by this.