How Do You Spell SABARI MALA?

Pronunciation: [sabˈɑːɹi mˈɑːlə] (IPA)

The spelling of the term "Sabarimala" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. According to IPA, "Sabarimala" is pronounced as səˈbarɪmələ. This word refers to a Hindu pilgrimage center in the state of Kerala, India. In recent years, the spelling of this word has been a matter of controversy, with some individuals spelling it as "Sabari Mala" instead. However, the correct spelling remains as "Sabarimala," and it is important to use the proper spelling when referring to this sacred place.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
Basic Check Advanced Check

SABARI MALA Meaning and Definition

  1. Sabarimala is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. The name Sabarimala is derived from two words: "Sabari," which refers to the forest inhabited by the mythical character Sabari, and "Mala," meaning hill in Malayalam, the local language. The site is famous for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, a Hindu deity revered for his celibacy and divine virtues.

    The Sabarimala temple is nestled amidst lush greenery and is open to all devotees irrespective of caste, creed, or gender. However, women of menstruating age (between 10 and 50) were traditionally prohibited from entering the temple, citing religious customs and beliefs.

    The pilgrimage to Sabarimala typically occurs during the Malayalam month of Vrishchikam (November-December) and draws millions of devotees, especially from South India. The journey is marked by a rigorous 41-day penance period known as "vratham," which involves strict abstinence, prayer, and fasting. Devotees wear black attire, smear holy ash on their foreheads, and chant the name of Lord Ayyappa during this period.

    The temple complex houses the sanctum sanctorum, called the "sannidhanam," where Lord Ayyappa's idol is enshrined. The pilgrims climb a flight of 18 sacred steps, known as the 'Pathinettampadi,' to reach the temple. Separate arrangements are made for devotees to offer prayers and seek blessings from the deity.

    Sabarimala is not only a religious center but also a symbol of communal harmony and unity among devotees from various walks of life. The temple's rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and spiritual

Etymology of SABARI MALA

The word "Sabarimala" has its roots in the Malayalam language, which is primarily spoken in the South Indian state of Kerala. Sabarimala is a famous Hindu pilgrimage center located in the Western Ghats mountain range of Kerala.

The name "Sabarimala" is derived from two words: "Savari" and "Mala".

1. Savari: Savari or "Sabari" refers to the name of the devotee who according to Hindu mythology, was a tribal woman called Sabari. According to the story, Sabari was an ardent devotee of Lord Rama, who is the seventh avatar (incarnation) of the Hindu deity Vishnu. She resided in the forested area around the present-day Sabarimala temple. It is believed that Sabari offered Lord Rama fruits after checking their taste herself, ensuring that she served only the best ones.