22 Kodi Snanam Theertham
Rameswaram, India
- Bathe in all 22 holy wells.
- Experience spiritual purification.
- Learn about the Ramayana legends.
- Observe the unique water properties.
- Participate in temple rituals.
Known for:
Description:
The 22 Theerthams of Rameswaram are a significant part of the pilgrimage experience. These are 22 wells located within the Ramanathaswamy Temple and along the route to the Agnitheertham sea. Each theertham is believed to possess unique healing properties and is associated with different deities and legends from the Ramayana. Pilgrims traditionally take a dip in each of these wells in a specific order, starting from the temple and ending at the sea. The water in each well is different in taste and temperature, attributed to the unique composition of the earth from which it springs. Bathing in these theerthams is considered a purification ritual, washing away sins and bestowing blessings.
History:
The history of the 22 Theerthams is deeply intertwined with the legend of Lord Rama's journey to Lanka. It is believed that Lord Rama, before worshipping Lord Shiva to absolve his sins of killing Ravana, wanted to establish a Shiva Lingam. Hanuman was tasked to bring a Lingam from the Himalayas, but he was delayed. In the meantime, Sita created a Lingam out of sand, which is the main deity in the temple today. The 22 Theerthams are said to have originated from the arrows of Lord Rama, which he shot into the earth to quench his thirst and that of his army. Each theertham is associated with a specific event or deity related to the Ramayana, making them sacred sites for Hindu pilgrims for centuries.