Dwajasthambham

DWAJASTHAMBAM AND BALI PEETAM

INTRODUCTION

A Dwajasthambham also called as kodi maram is a flagstaff, which is found in most of the Hindu temples. When we enter into the temple we can find the Bali Peetam situated near the Dwajasthambham. The word Bali means “Sacrifice”. Unfortunately, the meaning has been misunderstood and people used to sacrifice the animals inside the temple on the Bali Peetam.

But the main purpose of having a Bali Peetam in the temple is entirely different. According to the Agama Sastra, when we enter into the temple we should Surrender our Ego and Bad Thoughts in front of the Bali Peetam and enter the temple with a pure mind.

We have to shed our bad habits like lust, anger and fear and enter inside the temple with full of spiritual thoughts filled up in our mind.

And finally, before leaving the temple, devotees should bow their head in front of the Dwajhasthambam and Bali Peetam as a token of giving respect to the almighty.

The priests at the temple normally offer the Holy Prasadam (Naivedhyam) at the Bali Peetam. It is also considered as the “Place of offerings”. This is normally done after offering the Holy Prasad to the main and other deities of the temple. It is believed that the food offered at this place would be willingly accepted by the deities and they would offer their blessings to the devotees.

“OM”

WRITTEN BY

R.HARISHANKAR