Vishnu Purana Sanskrit - English
• The Vishnu Purana is one of the eighteen Mah?pur??as, a genre of ancient Indian scriptures. It is considered one of the most important Puranas, as it primarily focuses on Lord Vishnu, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The Vishnu Purana contains a wealth of mythological stories, legends, and philosophical teachings related to Lord Vishnu and the creation, preservation, and destruction of the universe.
• The Vishnu Purana is believed to have been composed between the 1st and 3rd centuries CE, though it underwent subsequent revisions and additions. The text is attributed to the sage Parashara, who is considered the narrator of the Purana.
• The book is divided into six parts, also known as "Amshas," and contains a total of 126 chapters. Each part explores different aspects of Lord Vishnu's manifestations, avatars (incarnations), and his divine exploits. It covers various topics, including cosmology, genealogy of deities, rituals, religious duties, ethical teachings, and the four stages of life (ashramas) in Hindu society.
• The Vishnu Purana presents a detailed account of the ten major avatars of Lord Vishnu, including Matsya (the fish), Kurma (the tortoise), Varaha (the boar), Narasimha (the man-lion), Vamana (the dwarf), Rama (the hero of the Ramayana), Krishna (the central figure of the Mahabharata), and the future avatar Kalki.
• Along with the stories and mythology, the Vishnu Purana also imparts profound philosophical teachings, emphasizing the importance of devotion, righteous living, and the ultimate goal of liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.
• The Vishnu Purana remains an essential religious text for millions of Hindus, serving as a source of spiritual guidance, moral values, and cultural traditions. It provides a comprehensive understanding of Lord Vishnu's divine manifestations and offers insights into the complex nature of the universe and human existence.