Significance of Third step
In Vaishnavism, the Third step symbolizes a metaphor for Bhagavan's request for land, representing deeper spiritual offers and the essence of surrender. According to Purana, it reflects Bali's significant gesture of sacrifice for the divine and a request from Vishnu during the ritual that ultimately remains unfulfilled. This action leads to consequential outcomes for King Bali, highlighting the themes of devotion and the complexities of divine requests in spiritual narratives.
Synonyms: Final step, Next step, Third stage, Third phase, Third point
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Third step'
The Third step in Hinduism represents Vishnu's unfulfilled request for land, symbolizing deeper spiritual offerings and King Bali's sacrificial devotion, highlighting themes of surrender and the divine-human relationship.
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Symbolizes a significant gesture made by Bali, reflecting his willingness to sacrifice for the divine.[1]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A request made by Vishnu as part of the ritual for land, which remains unfulfilled, leading to further consequences for King Bali.[2]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A metaphor for Bhagavan's request for land, which symbolizes deeper spiritual offers and the essence of surrender.[3]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) The final phase in a multi-step process of indication that aims to convey further understanding or clarification.[4]
The concept of Third step in local and regional sources
The "Third step" represents a pivotal moment in the myth of Vamana, illustrating his capacity to encompass both the earth and skies, thereby highlighting the concept of completeness in his divine form and actions.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The step that Vamana was unable to take as he filled both the earth and the skies, signifying the completeness of his form.[5]