The 18 Steps of Deeksha

Ayyappa Deeksha has a special significance for it's austerity and discipline. Here is an attempt to unfold Deeksha in 18 steps divided into nine sections.

I. Appearance:
     1. Maladharanam

     2. VastraDharanam

     3. Mukhalankarana

II. Behavior:

     4. Brahmacharyyam

     5. Mita Bhasha & Satya vaakku

     6. Maligapuram & Manikanta

III. Control on Senses:

     7. Mandala Vratham

     8. Nigraham

IV. Devotion:

     9. Taraka Mantram

     10. Nitya Pooja

V. Equanimity:

     11. Sarva Prani Samanatvam

     12. Sarvamata Samanatvam

VI. Food:

     13. Mita Aaharam

     14. Annadanam

VII. Group Devotion:

     15. Swami Samuham

     16. Swami Bhajana

VIII. Humility:

     17. Karye Daivam

IX. Integrity:

     18. Manasa-Vaacha-Karmana