The Eternal Significance of 9
Height
Divya Desams
Petals
Shankas & Chakras (18+18)
Tridandam
Elephants Under Lotus
Padma Peetam
Statue of Ramanuja
The Eternal Significance of 9
Why the Number 9 is the Soul of the Statue of Equality
The Statue of Equality is a grand tribute to the revered saint Sri Ramanujacharya, embodying his teachings of inclusivity and spiritual wisdom. This magnificent monument stands as a beacon of universal acceptance, with its architectural design intricately interwoven with mathematical harmony, where every count ultimately aligns with the mystical number 9.
Architectural Significance
The site features 108 Divya Desams, representing the sacred shrines of Lord Vishnu. The Ujjivan Steps, leading to the feet of the SamathaMurthi, also total 108. Sri Ramanujacharya’s statue reaches a towering height of 216 feet (2+1+6=9), surrounded by 36 majestic elephants. The lotus petals at its base total 108, each exquisitely crafted.
The Universal Power of Number 9
The number 9 holds universal importance, retaining its essence through every mathematical operation. It symbolizes spiritual completion and eternal truth. Sri Ramanujacharya’s life reflects this divine quality—his unwavering devotion, inclusivity, and selfless service.
How 9 symbolizes Acharya
The number 9 represents wholeness and eternity, as multiplying it by any other number ultimately reduces back to 9. For example, in the equation 3 * 9 = 27, if you add the resulting digits (2 + 7), you get 9. This represents that Acharya will remain powerful eternally.
Additionally, when any number is added to 9, that number is ‘brought to life’. For example, 3 + 9 = 12, and then the sum of the digits in the resulting number, 12, gives the same number back: 1 + 2 = 3. Here, 9 symbolizes the Acharya, while 3 represents the seeker. If required, the Acharya willingly faces any difficulty to help the seekers attain Lord Srimannarayana. Sri Ramanujacharya has fully embodied this very nature of 9 in himself, willing to face the throes of Hell if millions of seekers could be uplifted. Perhaps this is why the year of his appearance, 1017, adds up to 9 (1 + 0 + 1 + 7 = 9). The number of scriptures he graced is 9, and the number of times he traveled to seek the Mantra-ardha, i.e the meaning of the Narayana Ashtakshari mantra, was 18 times (1 + 8 = 9). Further details below...
Story Behind Sacred Mantra
One remarkable instance in Sri Ramanujacharya's spiritual journey is his determination to obtain the sacred mantra. He walked 100 miles from Srirangam to Thirukottiyur 18 times to seek initiation. After enduring 17 trials, he was finally granted the Mantra Upadesam on his 18th attempt. Despite warnings that revealing the mantra would condemn him, he proclaimed it atop the Gopuram of Goshtipuram, ensuring moksha — ultimate liberation and joy — for all who sought it. Unconcerned about the personal consequences, he prioritized the well-being of all seekers over his own.
Hanuman at entrance
(Mandapam: 45 feet & Deity: 18 feet)
Jala Pavitra
27 feet
Garuda at entrance
(Mandapam: 45 feet & Deity: 18 feet)
Story Behind Sacred Mantra
One remarkable instance is Sri Ramanujacharya spiritual journey to obtain the sacred mantra. He walked 100 miles from Srirangam to Thirukottiyur 18 times to seek initiation. After enduring 17 trials, he was finally granted Mantra Upadesam on the 18th attempt. Despite warnings that revealing the mantra would condemn him, he proclaimed it atop the Gopuram of Goshtipuram, ensuring salvation for all.
Hanuman at entrance
(Mandapam: 45 feet & Deity: 18 feet)
Jala Pavitra
27 feet
Garuda at entrance
(Mandapam: 45 feet & Deity: 18 feet)
Sri Ramanujacharya’s Legacy
A Monument of Spiritual Unity
Beyond his architectural and spiritual contributions, Sri Ramanujacharya also composed 9 sacred texts, laying the foundation of Vaishnavism and guiding spiritual seekers worldwide. These texts continue to inspire and illuminate the path to enlightenment.
Infused with profound numerical symbolism, the Statue of Equality not only honors the legacy of Sri Ramanujacharya but also serves as a reminder of the timeless truths he preached. With 9 at its core, this monument stands as a testament to unity, inclusivity, and the eternal power of righteousness.