Sri Garuda Purana - English | by Aru. Ramanathan/ Hindu Puran Book
Sri Garuda Purana is one of the eighteen Mahapuranas, a sacred Hindu scripture that provides profound insights into life, death, the afterlife, karma, and moksha. This ancient text, narrated by Lord Vishnu to Garuda (the divine eagle and His vehicle), offers deep philosophical wisdom on spirituality, righteous living, and the journey of the soul beyond this mortal world.
A Story from the Garuda Purana
Once, there was a wealthy but arrogant king named Vijayasena. He ruled his kingdom with great power but was obsessed with material pleasures and often ignored his duties towards his people and dharma. Though he performed grand rituals and built temples, he was unkind to the poor and never engaged in selfless charity.
One day, Yama, the Lord of Death, sent his messengers to bring Vijayasena’s soul to the afterlife. As his soul was taken, he pleaded, “I have donated gold, cows, and food to Brahmins. Why am I being taken to Naraka (hell)?”
The messengers replied, "Your charity was done with pride, not with true devotion or kindness. You ignored the cries of the poor and ruled with arrogance. Now, you must face the consequences of your actions."
The king was then shown the various realms of hell, where souls suffer due to their misdeeds. Seeing the pain of others and realizing his own mistakes, he repented deeply and sought forgiveness. Lord Vishnu’s mercy eventually granted him a chance to be reborn and atone for his past deeds.
This story from the Garuda Purana teaches that true dharma (righteousness) lies not just in rituals but in selfless service, kindness, and humility.
What This Book Covers:
• Introduction to Garuda Purana – An overview of this significant Hindu scripture and its divine teachings.
• Concept of Life & Death – Explores the soul’s journey, the significance of karma, and the cycle of birth and rebirth.
• Description of the Afterlife – Details the various realms of existence, punishments in Naraka (hell), and rewards in Swarga (heaven).
• Rituals for the Departed – Guidance on Antyesti (funeral rites), Shraddha (ancestral offerings), and Pinda Daan (rituals for the deceased).
• Significance of Righteous Living – How one’s actions influence their destiny, and the importance of dharma (righteousness).
• Sacred Hymns & Spiritual Practices – Includes chants, prayers, and methods for achieving spiritual liberation (moksha).
• Medical & Ayurvedic Knowledge – Insights into ancient healing practices and remedies prescribed in the Purana.
• Garuda’s Divine Role – The importance of Garuda as Vishnu’s messenger and his role in delivering this sacred knowledge.
Why Should You Read This Book?
• Ideal for Spiritual Seekers – Understand the mysteries of life and what happens after death.
• Guidance on Ancestral Rituals – Helps in performing last rites and Shraddha rituals correctly.
• Valuable for Scholars & Devotees – A detailed, authentic, and easy-to-read English translation.
• Reveals Ancient Hindu Wisdom – A blend of mythology, philosophy, and ethical teachings.
• Engaging & Informative – Written in a clear and simple style, making complex ideas easy to grasp.
Conclusion
"Sri Garuda Purana" is a must-read for anyone seeking knowledge about the afterlife, the law of karma, and the importance of righteous living. This book provides a detailed English translation, making it accessible to a wider audience, while retaining the essence of the original scripture.
