Why Devotees Skip the Third Step at Jagannath Temple—Yamraj’s Divine Role

A distinctive ritual at the Jagannath Temple in Puri captures the attention of devotees and visitors alike. While ascending the temple’s steps to seek Lord Jagannath’s blessings is common, many avoid stepping on the third step when exiting. This practice, deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, is believed to be connected to Yamraj, the god of death, adding a layer of spiritual significance to the temple’s architecture.

The Mythological Link

The tradition stems from an ancient legend tied to Yamraj’s divine duty. It is said that the third step represents a symbolic threshold where Yamraj assesses the sins and virtues accumulated during a devotee’s life. By avoiding it, pilgrims preserve the spiritual merit gained from darshan, preventing Yamraj from claiming their soul prematurely. Temple priests recount that this belief was established centuries ago by sages to ensure devotees leave with purified karma.

Ritual in Practice

During peak times, such as the Rath Yatra, hundreds of devotees can be seen carefully stepping over the third stair, guided by tradition or elder family members. The step, worn smooth by time, stands out as a silent guardian of this custom. Some carry small offerings or chant mantras while bypassing it, reinforcing their reverence. The practice is voluntary yet widely observed, reflecting the temple’s rich cultural heritage.

Cultural and Spiritual Impact

This ritual highlights the balance between life, death, and devotion in Hindu philosophy. It fosters a sense of humility, reminding devotees of mortality while honoring Jagannath’s protective grace. Scholars note it also serves as a communal bond, uniting pilgrims in shared faith.The temple buzzes with activity, with guides explaining the custom to curious tourists.

A Timeless Connection

The third step remains a poignant symbol of Yamraj’s role in the cosmic order. This tradition, blending fear and faith, continues to enrich the spiritual journey at Jagannath Temple, inviting reflection on life’s transient nature