Climbing the Path to Liberation: The Symbolism of Playing Snakes and Ladders on Vaikunta Ekadasi
Each year on Vaikunta Ekadasi, devotees of Lord Vishnu observe a sacred fast and engage in devotional practices to attain spiritual merit. Among these traditions, playing the board game of Snakes and Ladders (also known by its Sanskrit name, Moksha Patam) holds special significance. Far more than simple entertainment, the game offers a profound lesson about life’s journey toward liberation. Through its depiction of snakes and ladders, it illustrates the interplay of devotion, virtue, ego, and attachment in the seeker’s spiritual quest.
The Importance of Vaikunta Ekadasi
Vaikunta Ekadasi falls on the eleventh lunar day (Ekadasi) of the waxing moon in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December–January) - holy Dhanu Masa or Month, depending on regional calendars. It is believed that on this day the gate to Vaikunta, the heavenly abode of Lord Vishnu, remains open for devotees who fast, pray, and engage in acts of worship. Observing this day is considered one of the most powerful ways to cleanse past sins, cultivate devotion, and secure a place in the spiritual realm after death. Playing Snakes and Ladders on Vaikunta Ekadasi is an expression of this pursuit of purity and surrender.
Origins and Spiritual Context of the Game
The game of Snakes and Ladders originated in ancient India under the name Moksha Patam. Its design reflects core Hindu teachings on karma and dharma—actions and righteous living. The board comprises a grid of numbered squares, typically from one to one hundred. Players roll a die and move their tokens along the board. Ladders propel the player forward toward the goal, while snakes send the player backward. The ultimate aim is to reach the final square, signifying moksha (liberation).
Symbolism of the Ladders: Virtue and Devotion
In the context of Vaikunta Ekadasi, each ladder represents an act of virtue or devotion that elevates the soul. Observing a fast, chanting the holy names of Vishnu, offering charity, or serving the poor are ladders that lift the devotee closer to divine grace. A person who sincerely practices kindness, generosity, self-control, and truthfulness gains the strength to ascend these ladders. Every ladder square on the board is a reminder that right conduct and unwavering devotion shorten the journey to liberation.
Symbolism of the Snakes: Ego and Attachments
Conversely, the snakes symbolize ego, selfish desires, anger, greed, and excessive attachment to material comforts. Even a slight lapse in humility—such as harboring envy or arrogance—can pull the seeker down to a square of stagnation or regression. On Vaikunta Ekadasi, this imagery teaches that on days dedicated to spiritual renewal, one must be especially vigilant about inner faults. A slip into egoistic thoughts can undo the progress built through prayer and fasting.
Spiritual Lessons from the Game
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Non‐Attachment: As players aim for the summit, they learn that holding onto past mistakes (snake bites) delays progress. Likewise, in life, clinging to regrets or bad habits obstructs spiritual growth.
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Perseverance: Even when a player encounters a snake and slides backward, they can still climb again. This teaches resilience—no setback is permanent if one recommits to dharma and devotion.
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Grace of the Divine: Landing at the foot of a ladder may seem accidental, yet it underscores the belief that divine grace often appears when the seeker’s sincerity is unwavering.
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Self‐Reflection: Each move on the board is an invitation to reflect on personal conduct. On Vaikunta Ekadasi, this becomes a meditative practice: examining one’s thoughts, words, and deeds to discern where improvement is needed.
How to Observe the Tradition
Devotees typically begin the day before dawn, rising early to bathe in sacred waters and dress in clean, modest attire. The fast may be complete (no food, only water) or partial (permitting fruits and milk). After prayers at home or temple, families gather to play Snakes and Ladders. As they move their markers, they chant Vishnu’s names or recite passages from sacred texts. Elders often narrate stories of saints who attained liberation, reinforcing the moral lessons embedded in the game.
Contemporary Relevance
In modern households, this ancient tradition fosters family bonding, moral education, and a sense of continuity with ancestral customs. Even children who might initially see the game as play gradually absorb its deeper teachings. Beyond Vaikunta Ekadasi, playing Snakes and Ladders can be a year‐round reminder to practice humility, cultivate virtues, and guard against ego. It transforms a mere pastime into a living metaphor for life’s spiritual journey.
Final Reflections
Playing Snakes and Ladders on Vaikunta Ekadasi is far more than a festive ritual or casual diversion. It is an embodiment of Hindu belief in karma, dharma, and moksha—teaching players to shed ego, embrace devotion, and strive for liberation. Each snake and ladder on the board captures a profound spiritual truth: that progress is earned through virtuous living and humility, while pride and attachment can always pull us backward. By engaging in this time‐honored practice, devotees reaffirm their commitment to walk the path toward Krishna’s eternal abode, stepping ever closer to the ultimate freedom of the soul.