07 Secrets about the Baisi Pahacha of Jagannath Temple

 

Baisi Pahacha (Twenty-Two Steps) of Jagannath Temple: Unveiling the Mystery

Introduction:

The Baisi Pahacha, also known as the "Twenty-Two Steps," holds great significance in the sacred Jagannath Temple in Puri and is deeply revered in Jagannath Sanskruti. However, many people remain unaware of its profound importance. In the Odia language, "Baisi" translates to twenty-two (22), while "Pahacha" signifies steps. Therefore, the Baisi Pahacha represents the 22 steps that guide one toward the divine presence.

 

Table of Contents:

1. Size & Structure of the Twenty-Two Steps
2. Top 07 Secrets Revealed about the Baisi Pahacha of Jagannath Temple
3. Name of the Baisi Pahacha of Jagannath Temple
4. Conclusion
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Size & Structure of the Twenty-Two Steps

 

• The size and structure of the Baisi Pahacha have been described differently by various historians and pandits throughout history, resulting in different perspectives. Over time, the steps have undergone numerous reconstructions and repairs, leading to changes in their actual size and count.

• According to Puranic beliefs, the original Baisi Pahacha consisted of 22 steps, but currently, only 18 steps are directly visible. When including the two steps towards Ananda Bazar, the count totals 20, and the final two steps, 21 and 22, lead towards Rosasala, also known as the Kitchen.

• The steps of the Baisi Pahacha are typically 6ft high and wide, with a length of 70ft. However, the 18th step is wider at 15ft, and some steps have a rounded shape that is less than 6ft wide. These steps are made using Felspar and Khodalite. 

• A significant black stone called "Yama Shila" is engraved at the third step. In Jagannath Sanskruti, it holds great importance as devotees place their feet on this stone while entering the temple to seek relief from Lord Yama's punishment (Yama Danda). However, they avoid stepping on the stone while leaving, believing that it diminishes their "Punya" or merit.

Top 07 Secrets Revealed about the Baisi Pahacha of Jagannath Temple

 

1. The Darshan of the Bramham: 

The Bramha Gyani Sadhakas believe that after 21 days, Bramha is inserted into the Daru Murti. Hence, the 22 steps symbolize the path to attain the Darshan of the Bramham.

2. Representation of Purans and Vedas: 

The Jagannath Sanskruti encompasses 18 Purans and 04 Vedas, and the construction of the 22 steps is meant to represent these ancient scriptures.

3. Symbolism of Bhuban and Baikuntha: 

Some researchers suggest that the 22 steps represent the 14 Bhubans, which comprise 07 Lokas (heavens) and 07 Patalas (netherworlds), along with the 08 Baikunthas.

4. Connection to Mahendra Giri Mountain: 

The Darubrahma Sikhar at Mahendra Giri Mountain also consists of 22 stages. It is believed that members of the Sabara caste, who migrated to Puri during the Chola dynasty, built the 22 steps in the Srimandir based on this connection.

05: Symbolic Representation in Jainism:

 In Jainism, the 22 steps are connected to the 22 Tirthankars. When devotees enter through the Lion Gate, they touch each step and then their heads as a gesture of respect towards the Tirthankars. 

06: Symbolism of Spiritual Elements:

 Another viewpoint suggests that the 22 steps symbolize Pancha Mantra, Pancha Bhuta, Pancha Bija, Pancha Deva, Jiva, and Parama, representing different spiritual elements.

07: Depiction of Human Habits:

 According to certain Purans and Upanishads, the 22 steps represent 22 human habits (Para Prakruti) out of 25 (with 03 being Apara Prakriti). Each step corresponds to one human habit (Prakruti).

• The Baisi Pahacha, also known as the Twenty-Two Steps, holds immense significance in the culture of the Jagannath Temple. It is mentioned in various scriptures and revered by spiritual leaders such as Sankaracharya, Nanak, and Chaitanya, who have emphasized entering the temple through this sacred path.

•  Situated at the eastern gate of the temple, known as the Lion Gate or Simha Dwara, the Baisi Pahacha is believed to possess strong spiritual energy based on Vastu Sastra. It is believed that offering "Pinda Dana," a ritual of feeding ancestors, on these steps can bring solace to their souls.

•  An intriguing belief surrounds the Baisi Pahacha - if children roll down these steps slowly from top to bottom, they are said to receive blessings from the divine power, which can counteract the negative influences of malefic planets.

•  During the auspicious Car Festival or Ratha Yatra, all the deities and celestial beings descend from heaven to stand on these 22 steps, bestowing blessings upon devotees.

You can also read:  The Story of Patitapabana at Jagannath Temple

Name of the Baisi Pahacha of Jagannath Temple

 The Baisi Pahacha of Jagannath Temple represents a divine connection, allowing devotees to witness the Supreme Power, Lord Jagannath, and receive divine blessings. It consists of 22 steps, each of which symbolizes different aspects of human beings and their connection to the divine.

  01.   Tibra,  02. Kum udabati, 03. Mandaa, 04. Chandobati, 05. Dayabati, 06. Rajani, 07. Ratika, 08. Rudra, 09. Krodha, 10. Badrika, 11. Prasarini, 12. Brati, 13. Maarjani, 14. Kshyati, 15. Raktaa, 16. Sandipani, 17. Ajapaani, 18. Madanti, 19. Rohini, 20. Ramyaa, 21. Ugraa, 22. Khyobini.

The first five steps represent the five sense organs - Eye, Ear, Nose, Tongue, and Skin. These organs allow individuals to perceive the world around them.

 The next five steps represent the five types of breathing (Pancha Prana) - Prana, Apana, Samana, Udana, and Vyana. These breaths are essential for sustaining life.

 Steps 11 to 15 depict the inner beauty of human beings - Rupa, Rasa, Gandha, Sawada, and Sabda. These qualities contribute to aesthetic experience and spiritual growth.

 Steps 16 to 20 symbolize the five elements (Panchabhuta) - Air, Water, Fire, Earth, and Sky. These elements are the building blocks of existence and represent the interconnectedness of all things.

 The 21st step represents Wisdom, signifying the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

 The final step, the 22nd step, represents Ego, reminding individuals to remain humble and surrender their ego before the Supreme Power.

You can also read: Sri Jagannath and Sri Krishna: One and the Same

Conclusion

 The Baisi Pahacha holds great importance in the religious context of Lord Jagannath. It is mentioned in various sacred texts and literature, highlighting its significance. The journey of ascending these twenty-two steps is a deeply spiritual and awe-inspiring experience for devotees. To enhance the spiritual connection, it is suggested to chant the Odiya Mantra while climbing the steps, as mentioned in the Jagannath Sanskruti.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the meaning of "Baisi Pahacha"?

   The term "Baisi Pahacha" translates to "Twenty-Two Steps" in the Odia language.

2. What is the significance of the "Yama Shila" stone on the third step?

   Believed to offer relief from Lord Yama's punishment, devotees who step on the "Yama Shila" stone while entering the temple seek divine protection.

3. What are the different interpretations of the symbolism behind the 22 steps?

   Various perspectives attribute the steps to Bramha darshan, representation of Purans and Vedas, symbolism of Bhuban and Baikuntha, as well as connections to Mahendra Giri Mountain and Jainism, among others.

4. Who highlighted the importance of entering Srimandir through the Baisi Pahacha?

   Spiritual leaders such as Sankaracharya, Nanak, Chaitanya, and others emphasized the spiritual significance of following this path.

5. What is the special ritual connected with children and the Baisi Pahacha?

It is believed that children who roll down the steps of the Baisi Pahacha from top to bottom will receive blessings and have any negative planetary influences reversed.

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