The Ineffable Glory: Unveiling the Sacredness of Shri Purushottama Kshetra and Lord Jagannath

The essence of Param Brahma (Supreme Being) Shri Jagannath, with all its mystique and splendor, has been described in countless Puranas and scriptures. However, even the scriptures humbly acknowledge that the Lord is beyond description. When we talk about Jagannath and the Puranas, the Skanda Purana is the first to come to mind. Let’s explore the wisdom shared within this text and delve into the profound significance of this sacred place.

The Sages’ Inquiry and Jaimini’s Response

In the Skanda Purana, the sages approach Jaimini Muni, seeking guidance on the path to salvation in this challenging Kali Yuga. They ask him about the most sacred pilgrimage site, who resides there, and its divine glory.

Jaimini Muni, drawing from his understanding of the dialogue between Lord Shiva and Kartikeya, narrates a tale that reveals the very heart of the matter.

The Creation of Shri Purushottama Khetra

After Lord Narayana, in his Varaha (boar) incarnation, rescued the Earth, Lord Brahma started the work of creation, and the establishment of numerous holy places. Soon, Brahma became worried as he thought about the plight of beings trapped in the cycle of life and death. Thus he prayed to Lord Jagannath:

“O Lakshmikanta, O Jagadish, O Padmanabha, it is through your will that this creation has manifested. Your grace pervades all of this world. By your maya (illusion) and the three gunas (qualities), this world is bound. O Lord Jagannath, please bestow your grace to all beings so that they can attain liberation from your maya.”

Lord Jagannath’s Declaration

Upon hearing Brahma’s heartfelt prayer, Lord Jagannath said:

“O Brahma, to attain freedom from my maya and the three gunas is an impossibility, for that is the law of creation, but listen to my words with utmost seriousness… From the south of the Mahanadi River to the Mahodadhi (ocean), the ten yojana wide area is the most sacred place of this creation. From Ekamra Kanan (forest) to the shore of the ocean is the most important among all pilgrimages. Here, I have taken the form of Shri Purushottama.”

The Lord further revealed:

• The Neelagiri (blue mountain) near the ocean is the most secret place in the universe, unknown to gods, demons, humans, or sages.

• It is a place hidden by his divine maya, where those born within that region are his devotees, destined to achieve union with him.

• By residing, even for a short time, in this place, all the fruits of yagnas, dana, and tapa are attained, and residing there for a second can yield the fruit of Ashwamedha Yagna.

• He invited Brahma to visit that land and witness his divine presence.

The Promise of Salvation

Lord Jagannath’s words emphasize the unparalleled significance of Shri Purushottama Kshetra as a sacred site for those seeking salvation. The region’s sacredness is such that merely residing there, even briefly, is said to grant immense spiritual merit. He also mentions the Rohini Kund, located at the foot of the sacred Bata Briksha (Banyan Tree), whose holy water can offer liberation to any being.

Bringing the Divine Truth Home

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Jai jagannath 😊🙏