The Symbolism of the 22 Steps in Jagannath Temple, Puri: A Comprehensive Analysis

Jagannath Temple in Puri is a sacred site for millions of pilgrims, known for its grandeur and spiritual significance. Among the many mysteries surround this temple is the symbolism of its 22 steps. Each of these steps hold profound meanings and interpretations, making them a crucial aspect of the temple's mystique.

Interpretation I: The 25 Prakritis and Para Prakritis

According to Yogasashtra, a human being is composed of five types of Mana and 25 types of Prakriti. Out of these 25 Prakritis, 3 are Apara Prakritis and 22 are Para Prakritis. The 22 Para Prakritis are as follows:

Kaman Sambhoga Kelin Lobha Sankshaya Kosa or Panjikarna Abhaya Himsa Irisa Kisan Kapta Mithya Ghma Ninda Agyana Tantra Rag Dvesha Ahankara Mada or Piban Utkantha Maithuna

A yogi must navigate through these 22 Para Prakritis to attain a direct vision of the Lord.

Interpretation II: The Seven Lokas, Seven Patalas, and Eight Baikunthas

According to Bhagavata Purana, the seventh heaven, Vaikuntha, of Lord Vishnu lies above the seven lokas, seven patalas, and eight Baikunthas. These layers are as follows:

Seven Lokas: Bhuloka Bhubahuloka Svahuloka Vaikunthuloka Januloka Tapuloka Satyuloka Seven Patalas: Atalpatala Sutalpatala Bitalpatala Talatalpatala Mahatalpatala Rasatalpatala Patala Eight Baikunthas: Sri Baikuntha Kaibalitya Baikuntha Karanamaba Baikuntha Samasba Baikuntha Sevasai Baikuntha Svetadeepa Baikuntha Parabyoma Baikuntha Garbhodakasai Baikuntha Kailasai Baikuntha

These layers are symbolically represented in the 22 steps to guide pilgrims through their spiritual journey.

Interpretation III: The Five Elements, Five Senses, and Five Pleasures

The 22 steps are said to symbolize the five elements (panca bhutas), five senses (panca indriyas), and five pleasures (panca rasas). This symbolizes the interplay of matter and spirit:

First five steps are for the five senses (eye, ear, nose, tongue, skin). Second five steps are for the five breaths (prana, apana, vyana, samana, and udana). Third five steps describe the internal beauty (rupa, rasa, swad, gandha, and sabda). Fourth five steps are for the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and space). Twenty-first step is for wisdom, and the twenty-second for ego.

Each step represents a different aspect of the human experience, guiding the pilgrim to a profound spiritual transformation.

Interpretation IV: The 22 Tirthas of Shrimad Bhagavat

The 22 steps also symbolize the 22 tirthas (holy places) mentioned in Shrimad Bhagavat with ten important gods:

Basudeva Narayana Madan-Mohana Ram Krishna Sri Devi Bhudevi Bhuvaneshvari Pancarasa Astasatika Bhavan Tribij Shri Bhavan Trisatik Bhavan Trigun Bhavan

Together, these tirthas represent a comprehensive journey of spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Interpretation V: The 24 Avatars of Lord Vishnu and Salvation

According to the Bhagabata Purana, Lord Vishnu has 24 avatars, 22 of which are considered the most significant. These avatars are symbolized by the 22 steps. It is believed that by touching these steps, all sins of the pilgrims will be absolved:

Caturasana Narada Varaha Matsya Yajna Nara-Narayana Kapila Dattatreya Prsnigarbha Rsabha Prithu Narayana Kurma Dhanvantari Mohini Vamana Parasurama Rama Vyasa Balarama Krishna Kalki

Conclusion

The 22 steps of Jagannath Temple are a testament to the rich symbolism and spiritual depth of Hindu traditions. They guide pilgrims through a journey that represents their spiritual growth, offering a pathway to enlightenment and salvation. Understanding these meanings enhances the experience of visiting this sacred site and deepens one's appreciation of its cultural and religious significance.