For one, Ayyappa was a master of 18 weapons - each step is dedicated to each of those weapons, which Ayyappa is believed to have finally surrendered at the “ pathinettam padi” or the eighteenth step. The steps are believed to be special for other reasons too. The steps were originally of granite, but later covered with panchaloha, a special mixture of gold, silver, copper, iron and tin. The last two steps represent vidya (knowledge) and its opposite, avidya (ignorance). The trigunas, the next three steps, stand for three human qualities, satva (goodness or purity), rajas (passion) and tamas (inertia or dullness). It is believed that climbing up the steps while chanting helps control emotions that cause pain in the world. These signify emotions: Krodh (anger), kama (love), lobh (greed), moh (lust), asooya (jealousy), dhoombh (boastfulness), madha (unhealthy competition) and maltsarya (pride). Next come the eight steps of the ashtaragas. The first five steps are called panchedriyas: They symbolise the five human senses of sight, sound, smell, taste and touch.
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![swamiye saranam ayyappa meaning swamiye saranam ayyappa meaning](https://static.toiimg.com/photo/msid-84929790/84929790.jpg)
Devotees believe that ascending these steps helps detach them from worldly desires, mentally and physically. The 18 steps have considerable religious significance.
![swamiye saranam ayyappa meaning swamiye saranam ayyappa meaning](https://i.pinimg.com/736x/fe/db/04/fedb04e8eb7a3abbb965f3569068901b.jpg)
On their way to the temple, Ayyappa devotees must carry the ‘ irumudi’, a small black cloth bundle that consists of puja items or personal possessions like a change of clothes and something to eat like dry fruits, on their head.Īlso read: Hartal over entry of women in Sabarimala temple begins in Kerala