Jagannath - Symbolic Representation

Symbolic Representation

Jagannath has been depicted as the symbol of godhead in certain other belief systems and faiths as, under:

In Vaishnavism, the Jagannath form is worshiped as the abstract form of Krishna.

The follower of Shaiva Culture maintain that the original shape of Jagannath was in shape of a Linga. Deity Balabhadra is also named as "Shiva" and "Ananta Vasudev".

The Shaktas claim that in tantra systems, Jagannath has been accepted as Bhairava and associate deity Bimala represents 'Bhairavi'. Such a belief is reinforced by the ritual whereby only after offering of the 'Jagannath Bhog' at Goddess Bimala, it is considered as 'Mahaprasad'.

Followers of Buddhism pray Jagannath in mantra "Namoh Jagannath Buddhaya". In their opinion, Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra represent the Buddha-Sangha-Dhamma triad. A section of Buddhists believes that the tooth relic of Buddha is kept inside the Jagannath idol at the navel circle. Buddhists draw parallel in claiming that the Jagannath Rath-Yatra is like the of Rath Yatra for Buddha. The Buddhists also do not follow casteism in society, which is also followed in the Ananda Bazar of Jagannath.

Jains believe that the word "Jagannath" has been derived from the word "Jinanath". The Jagannath idol resembles with the ancient Jain Idol. The 'Baisi Pahacha' (22 steps) leading to the temple has been constructed in the memory of 22 tirthankaras or Kevalins. Similarly, the offerings made to Jagannath is called 'Kaivalya'.