Jagannath Temple Secrets: Why do devotees not step on the third step of Jagannath Temple? Know the unique belief related to ‘Yamshila’

Jagannath Temple Secrets: Lord Shri Jagannath Temple located in Puri, Odisha is counted among the most mysterious and faith-related religious places of India. Every year lakhs of devotees come here for darshan. Many mysteries related to the temple have been attracting people for years, but amidst all this there is a belief which surprises every new devotee. It is said that devotees avoid stepping on the third step among the 22 stairs of the temple and if anyone accidentally steps on it, they immediately seek forgiveness from God.

After all, what is the secret of the third ladder?

There are a total of 22 steps on the main entry way of Jagannath Temple, which are called “Baisi Pahacha” in the local language. According to religious beliefs, the third rung of these stairs is considered “Yamshila”. Devotees believe that by stepping on this special staircase, the effect of the virtuous deeds done so far can be reduced. For this reason most of the devotees take special care while crossing this staircase.

This mythological story is related to Yamraj

According to folk beliefs, when people’s sins started ending with the mere sight of Lord Jagannath, Yamraj, the god of death, expressed his concern to the Lord. It is said that God then gave him a place on the third step of the temple and showed him the path to maintain the balance of karma and justice. Since then this staircase came to be known as “Yamshila” and devotees look at it with utmost reverence.

22 stairs are not just a path, they are a symbol of spiritual journey.

These 22 stairs have been given special importance in religious traditions. It is believed that these stairs give the message of victory over lust, anger, greed, attachment, ego and other vices present within the human being. Some scholars also consider them to be symbols of Panchmahabhoota, senses and various stages of spiritual progress.

This belief is related to reverence and tradition (Jagannath Temple Secrets)

Religious experts say that the belief related to the third step i.e. Yamshila is completely based on faith and tradition. Its purpose is believed to be to make the devotees understand the importance of their deeds, humility and spiritual life. Therefore, devotees reaching Puri express special respect towards this staircase and proceed with caution.

This information is based on various religious beliefs, folklore and traditional beliefs. Its purpose is not to make any kind of claim. Faith and belief are personal matters of every person.