What to Do If I Go Bathroom in Ayyappa Mala?
Ayyappa Mala is a sacred vow undertaken by devotees of Lord Ayyappa in preparation for their pilgrimage to Sabarimala. Wearing the mala signifies purity, devotion, and self-discipline. But what happens if a devotee needs to use the bathroom while wearing the sacred mala?
Maintaining spiritual and physical purity is a fundamental aspect of the Ayyappa Mala period. Devotees follow strict rituals to uphold their commitment, and using the washroom is a common concern. While nature’s call is unavoidable, there are specific purification rituals that one must follow to continue the spiritual journey without breaking the vow.
Understanding the Significance of Ayyappa Mala
Ayyappa Mala is not just a religious accessory; it represents a devotee’s dedication to Lord Ayyappa. The mala is worn after a proper initiation, symbolizing renunciation of material desires, discipline, and purity. During the period of wearing the mala, devotees refrain from worldly pleasures, adhere to a strict vegetarian diet, and engage in prayers and fasting.
The rules of Ayyappa Mala are deeply rooted in Hindu traditions. Purity in thought and action is paramount, and any deviation from these principles requires atonement.
The Rules for Wearing Ayyappa Mala
Devotees who wear Ayyappa Mala must follow a strict set of guidelines, which include:
- Maintaining physical and mental purity
- Observing celibacy
- Consuming only sattvic (pure vegetarian) food
- Refraining from alcohol, smoking, and other intoxicants
- Sleeping on the floor as a mark of austerity
- Engaging in daily prayers and spiritual practices
Given these rules, using the bathroom is a natural bodily function but requires devotees to take specific purification steps afterward.
Can I Go to the Temple After Going to the Washroom?
Using the washroom does not prohibit a devotee from visiting the temple, but certain purification rituals must be performed first. The idea behind these rituals is to restore purity before engaging in worship.
Purification Steps After Using the Washroom
- Wash Hands and Feet: Before touching anything sacred, devotees must wash their hands and feet thoroughly with water.
- Take a Bath: A full-body bath with clean water is recommended to regain spiritual purity.
- Wear Fresh Clothes: Changing into clean, untouched clothes is ideal before resuming prayers.
- Chant Mantras: Reciting sacred Ayyappa mantras like “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” helps cleanse the mind and soul.
- Perform a Small Puja: Lighting a lamp or offering a simple prayer before resuming devotional activities is a good practice.
These steps ensure that a devotee remains spiritually pure before entering the temple or continuing their pilgrimage.
What to Do If Ayyappa Mala Breaks?
The breaking of Ayyappa Mala is considered an inauspicious sign. It is believed that such an event occurs due to an impurity in one’s spiritual practice or as a divine indication of a mistake. If this happens, the devotee must:
- Visit the Guru Swamy: The Guru Swamy (senior devotee who guides others) will instruct on the necessary rituals.
- Perform a Purification Bath: A devotee must bathe in a sacred river or clean water.
- Seek Forgiveness from Lord Ayyappa: Offering prayers and apologizing for any unintentional mistakes is crucial.
- Replace the Mala with a New One: If allowed, a new mala may be worn with proper rituals.
Breaking the mala does not necessarily mean the vow is broken, but it does require sincere repentance and adherence to purification steps.
Can We Use Soap in Ayyappa Mala?
Devotees following Ayyappa Mala practice strict purity, which extends to their bathing habits. Using chemical-based soaps, shampoos, or deodorants is discouraged. Instead, devotees prefer:
- Herbal powders like green gram powder or turmeric
- Natural soaps made from Ayurvedic ingredients
- Plain water for cleansing
The reason for avoiding regular soap is to maintain the sanctity of the body and soul. Chemical-based products are believed to interfere with spiritual purity.
Additional Guidelines for Devotees Observing Ayyappa Mala
Daily Rituals and Discipline
- Wake up early and take a cold water bath
- Engage in morning and evening prayers
- Visit temples and participate in group bhajans
- Consume simple, home-cooked vegetarian meals
Behavioral Conduct
- Maintain peace and patience
- Avoid negative speech and arguments
- Refrain from materialistic pleasures
Adhering to these disciplines ensures a fulfilling and spiritually enriching experience.
Common Concerns and FAQs
How Often Should You Do a Moose Call?
This question is unrelated to Ayyappa Mala, but if you are referring to calling upon Lord Ayyappa, regular chanting of “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” throughout the day is encouraged.
How Long is the Moose Rut?
Similarly, if you mean the duration of Ayyappa Mala observance, it typically lasts for 41 days. Devotees follow strict practices throughout this period before embarking on the Sabarimala pilgrimage.
Should You Make Noise Around Moose?
If comparing to the disciplined conduct of Ayyappa devotees, silence and self-restraint are emphasized. Devotees avoid unnecessary speech and focus on prayers.
What is a Moose Noise Called?
In spiritual terms, the “call” of a devotee to Lord Ayyappa is through continuous chanting and devotion. Devotees believe their prayers reach the Lord just as sound travels in nature.
Final Thoughts on What to Do If I Go Bathroom in Ayyappa Mala
Observing Ayyappa Mala is a deeply spiritual commitment that requires discipline and devotion. While natural bodily functions like using the bathroom cannot be avoided, following the proper purification rituals ensures that devotees maintain their sanctity.
Through regular prayers, cleanliness, and adherence to Ayyappa Mala rules, devotees strengthen their spiritual journey. Respecting these traditions not only deepens faith but also fosters self-discipline and inner peace.