GARUDA PURANA

Jnana Yogi Version

Manipravalam Version

Badri Narayan Krishnan

Who Cannot Read This BookThis book evolved out of my attempt to revive a lost sacred text called the

“Shubha Dharma Garuda Purana”.

The “Garuda Purana” is probably the most important, living Purana. In itsoriginal form (19,000 shlokas), it is a treatise that covers Ayurveda, creationtheories and the afterlife. It contains graphic details of death and punishment.Thus the “Garuda Purana” is recommended for reading only to the evolvedjnani in most Indian traditions. The layman is advised to read the “ShubhaDharma Garuda Purana”.

I will soon publish The Shubha Dharma Garuda Purana. The ShubhaDharma.. version only contains parts that have a divine, ethical and metaphysicalmessage. Narayana in his own words recommends its reading for the layman,philosopher and grihasta.

Copyright © 2019 Badri Narayan KrishnanAll rights reserved.

ISBN:

Dedicated To

SadaShiva samarambham !Sankaracharya madhyamam !Asmad Acharya paryantham !

Vande guru paramparam !!

The pantheon of Sages and Acharyas beginning from SadaShiva HimselfTill the many Acharyas who have blessed me,

I bow before them

Special thanks to my sister Smt. Akila who motivated me towards thisGrantha.

Kaye Na Vaacha..Traditional Indian acknowledgement

The wisdom of Hinduism is the wisdom of many Manvantaras (creations /galaxies – each millions of years). There are bound to be many interpretations,opinions on this knowledge.

Every humble Vipra (student of vedic knowledge) is warned:

Ekam Sath. !Ekam Brahma !Vipra bahuda vadante !!

There is only one truth. Only one Lord.But, there are many views / understandings / opinions among the learned

The only way to knowledge is to submit to the tradition (Guru parampara)beginning with the Creator Brahma / Shiva, the great Acharyas and Rishisthrough Sankaracharya, and the many Acharyas we encounter in life (includingmany humble people, beings).

SadaShiva samarambham !Sankaracharya madhyamam !Asmad Acharya paryantham !

Vande guru paramparam !!

Sankaracharya establishes the tradition of knowledge in 2 steps1. Tatah Kim2. Na iti1. Tatah kim (so what ? what next?).

Question, question, question, study study, study, meditate, meditate,meditate, meditate

2. Na iti (it is not so, not accurate).He encourages us to discard ideas that do not stand up to open minded,

honest scrutiny.

I submit all my knowledge to my Acharyas above. I accept all the mistakes.If you feel there is a disagreement / mistake with your belief, rely on your AtmaGuru (inner Guru) to guide you. Also remember that, you have a duty to avoidthe papa of unwarranted ninda (criticism).

I am acting as a mere instrument through which these Acharyas arepresenting their blessed wisdom. I do not claim any originality.

In the spirit of “Vasu daiva kutumbakam”, I acknowledge Acharyas acrosstime, place, ashramas…. This text is offered at the feet of these preceptors.

Krishna arpanam asthu !

Acknowledgements

Sanskrit contributors:

Nava Nidhi RamaSri Hari Narayaṇa

King Sri Sukhalalaji

Modern contributors:

S.V. Subrahmanyam(Veda Acharya to J Krishnamurti)Srisa Chandra Vasu (Allahabad)Shastri Manmatha Nath Dutt

Acharya Sabha (Motilal Banarsidass)Ganesh Rama Kumar

Ernest WoodJohn Bruno HareSacred-texts.com

Front cover picture credit:Wonderlane, Seattle, USA – Yamantaka

Art Institute, Chicago, Illinois, USA, CC BY 2.0,https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=52291314

IntroductionI present here a researched, Kali Yuga (modern / today) version of this

grand text. If you feel there is a disagreement / mistake with your belief, rely onyour Atma Guru (inner Guru) to guide you. Also remember that, you have aduty to avoid the papa of unwarranted ninda (criticism).

Every ancient text should be read and studied respectfully. Some negativeinterpretations are to be expected due to the passage of time. I have stuck to amore metaphysical interpretation, especially in handling terms like “caste”,“slave”, “female”, “leprosy curse” etc.

Hindu interpretation has varied depending on the Acharya background –Dvaita, Advaita, Visishtadvaita or the Shat Darshanas. I have tried to keep thesebiases / influences away by relying on the interpretation from the Vedic period.

This book is written in the Manipravalam style. A tradition which integratesSanskrit with the colloquial to present complex ideas.

I am acting as a mere instrument through which these Acharyas arepresenting their blessed wisdom. I do not claim any originality.

Background to this workIt is indeed rare for an Acharya to permit the study of the “Garuda Purana”. It isconsidered the “Indian Book of the Dead”. I have been blessed by my Acharyato study this text. The subject of the “Garuda Purana” is not very pleasant, butnevertheless very relevant, necessary.

This book evolved out of my work to revive a lost sacred text called the “Shubha DharmaGaruda Purana”. The “Shubha Dharma Garuda Purana” is credited with helping Indiaachieve and maintain its pristine position in the world from vedic times. Invading enemies

targeted the destruction of this text. Its disappearance led to the weakening of the Indian spirit.

With the blessings of my Guru Parampara, I fervently hope that this publication of“Garuda Purana” and the forthcoming “Shubha Dharma Garuda Purana” will enable

Indian Bharatiya Dharma to shine and illuminate the world.

This is a translation of what is considered the core parts of the GarudaPurana.

I have sacrificed rhyme / poetry focusing on the philosophy and the eternalmessage. I’ve made an attempt to make this readable and understandable.

I write this with the deepest love and respect for Sanathana Hindu Dharma.There is no intention to offend anybody’s sensibilities.

Garuda Purana A SummaryHinduism has the distinction of being the most Theologically developed,

diverse religion. The body of ancient knowledge is philosophically sound, varied,diverse and detailed. Every Indian must be proud:

“The Jews were the proud People of the Book, as they had the Bible toguide them

In that ancient time, Hindus already had several books to guide them”

The Garuda Purana is one of the most important of the 108 puranas. It ispart of the 18 Maha Puranas. To this day, it is one of the most actively usedPuranas. While a Vipra (student of vedic texts) will tell you that the GarudaPurana is one of the most popular and used Puranas, the common man may notbe aware of its importance.

Today the Karma and Rebirth theories are gaining popular acceptanceglobally. The Garuda Purana offers excellent insights into both these uniquelyHindu philosophies.

The Garuda Purana is:1. One of the 18 Maha Puranas reorganized / compiled by Veda Vyasa2. One of the Vishnu Puranas3. One of the Sattivika Puranas4. Dialog between Narayana and Garuda, the King of Birds.

Veda Vyasa organized it into 2 Khandas (sections)· Purva Khanda

The Purva Khanda deals with a variety of topics including:1. Creation of the universe2. Creation of the Gods3. Methods of worshipping the Gods4. Worship of Vaastu5. Vaastu Shastra6. Ayurvedic medical treatises7. Charity8. Prayaschitta (rites for forgiveness)9. Geographical treatise - seven islands / continents, countries10. Astronomy – position of the sun, planets, hells, heavens11. Science of body language (based on marks on the body etc)12. Pranayama13. Yoga14. An extensive treatise on Gemology15. Description of the manvantaras / several Manus16. Yagnavalkya smriti17. Dvija – process of holy thread18. Duties of householders, sanyasins19. Navagraha doshas20. Political science – kings, administration21. Vrata paddati and many more minor topic· Uttara Khanda

The Uttara Khanda is also called the Pretha Kanda. This deals with:1. Narayana’s instructions on avoiding hell and attaining mukti / Swarga2. Karma theory3. Metaphysics of reincarnation4. Details of funeral rights5. Details of the sufferings and types of hell

The original texts are no more available. Only some parts are available. Thisleads to many opinions about the contents, khandas. I take a humble view ofsharanagathi based on my tradition.

Various scholars have suggested that some of the sections may have beenadded over time.

In the Hindu knowledge tradition, Hell has to be understood with the

Karma and Punar janma (Rebirth) concepts. Hell is a living reality. Hell as a waystation between births / rebirths, not a permanent destination. Today both theKarma and rebirth theories are gaining popular acceptance globally. The GarudaPurana offers excellent insights into both these uniquely Hindu philosophies.

It is important to study and follow the “Garuda Purana” because Sri Krishna(Narayana / Vishnu’s avatar) lays out the divine plan in the “Bhagavad Gita”

(add the shloka from BG. I have made nature / laws responsible for theworld. I refuse to interfere.)

Ignorance cannot be an excuse.

Vidura in his “Vidura Neeti” reiterates a key principle of Dharma:Adharmaat Arjitham Dhanam !

Kurvai ourdha daihikam !Na sa tasya phalam !

Pretha dhungthe !Arthasya dur aagamaath !!

“Wealth earned through Adharma(Cheating, greed, violence, inflicting suffering)

Curses one to suffer as a Pretha(a state so bad, the soul is not even eligible for the suffering of hell)”

In his love for his human creation, Lord Narayana offers the knowledgethat helps men avoid hell and leads to mukti. Narayana speaks lovingly andelaborately to the normal human being.

True repentance for sin is the highest and only prayaschitta. The Gods andYama cannot be fooled by mere offerings, pilgrimages, dakshina, vratha, homaetc. True repentance for sin is the highest and only prayaschitta.

The Garuda Purana clearly warns against “wise guys” like me J who freelygive advice. It reveals the simple truth of life and extolls you to follow it fromyour chitta.

Chapter One

The Short Journey On Earth Ends, The LongJourney Of The Afterlife Begins

“

Vandanams to our oral masters, acharyas, rishisWho came before Ganesha, before Ekadanta who gifted writing

Vandanams to Suka, Saunaka, Krishna Dwaipayana and Garuda”00

Shlokas 1 to 9:The Indian Hindu tradition opens texts with credits to the authors.

Remember, this text was first oral before it was written down. The shlokas payobeisance to Narayana (Vishnu, Madhusudana, Krishna). Thenacknowledgements as follows:

“Vandanams to the grantha acharyas – Suta & ShaunakaVandanams to the Naimisharanya, the holiest of knowledge lands

Vandanams to Garuda and Sriman Narayana”01

The location: Naimisha forest - NaimisharanyaNaimisharanya is mentioned in the Ramayana, Mahabharatha.. It is thought

to be 100 Km from present day Lucknow, on the banks of Gomti river)

Acharyas / authors:Suta. SaunakaGreat Acharyas about 6 generations after the Pandavas, great yagnakarthas of

Naimisharanya, author of some parts of the Rig veda, giver of several puranas.

Original source: Garuda’s conversation with Vishnu in Vaikunta.Garuda – vahana (vehicle of Vishnu), omnipresent, respected in Hinduism,

Buddhism and Jainism, son of Vinata (Vainateya).Vishnu is also called Hari, Narayana, Krishna, Rama, Madhusudana. In this

translation, the author will remember him by his Acharya’s preferred name –Narayana.

Topic: the way of Yama, The book of the DeadYama – Lord of Death. Merciful, always accurate, all knowing, absolutely

just. Happiness-giving, to the virtuous, misery-giving to the sinful. Theinescapable ultimate for all humans.

Shlokas 10 to 12:

“Garuda uvacha:Narayana, nama smarana leads to mukti

But foolish men commit deeds that take them to hellEnlighten me about this”

02Garuda uvacha:Lord, O Narayana, dear Madhusudhana, glorious Vishnu, merciful Hari, your

name is the ultimate easy magic. When humans love and submit to you, underyour grace, there is no hell, no sin.

But, there are sinners, who ignore your love, your path. Enlighten me onhow they fall into the way of Yama.

Shlokas 13:

“Narayana uvacha:Garuda, Lover of wisdom, Lover of humanity

Henceforth the knowledge of Naraka, Swarga and MuktiWill be called “Garuda Purana””

03

“Narayana uvacha:“Garuda Purana” is necessary knowledge

I decree the Shat Dharma: Learn it and teach it.Follow it and help follow it, Practice it and preach it”

04Narayana uvacha:The way of Yama, which henceforth shall be called “Garuda Purana” is

knowledge for all the wise. It is necessary Dharma to:1. Learn & Teach (Garuda Purana)2. Follow it & help follow (to adhere to Garuda Purana)

3. Practice & Preach (Garuda Purana)(Shat Dharma – six Dharmas)Shlokas 14 to 17:

“Narayana uvacha:Simply said: One, not knowing the purpose of Janma

Showing no compassion, love, righteousnessGoes to hell”

05

“Narayana uvacha:Simply said: One, Selfish, accumulating more than he needs

Harming my loving shristi, ignoring his conscienceGoes to hell”

06

“Narayana uvacha:Simply said: The blessed aim for Shiva loka

The honest and righteous aim for SwargaThe deluded go to hell”

07Simply said, a person goes to foul hell and suffers the kind justice of Yama, if

he is:1. Lacking compassion and love2. Lacking righteousness3. Self-immersed / selfish4. Unbending – ignoring what his heart tells him5. Intoxicated with pursuit & pride of wealth6. Immersed in thoughts / actions for wealth7. Enveloped in the net of delusion8. Attached to the wicked9. Averse to the good10. Averse to the true scriptures / knowledge11. Delights in sin12. Having the ungodly qualities

13. Lacking the divine attributesSimply said, a person with wisdom goes to the highest goal - Mukti

(Unification of the individual soul with the universal soul. Liberation enjoyed in Shiva Loka - Kailasa , Vishnu Loka - Vaikunta or Brahma Loka)).

Shlokas 18 to 25

“Narayana uvacha:The deluded acquire like there is no Kala, Mrutyu or YamaThey ignore their conscience, they ignore the Garuda Purana

They are only earning a long suffering after their death”08

“Narayana uvacha:Don’t be fooled- sometimes sinners die peacefully, righteous die painfully

The sinners sufferings at death, his family does not see itThe righteous may visibly suffer, but is internally joyous”

09The sinners do not face their karmas in this life. They wait after death to face

the wrath of Yama.The soul has full memory of past lives and past sufferings till the baby is

born. Immediately upon death, the soul again remembers its past lives and pastsufferings. Why is this so? – it is the way.

Death of the good and the bad may seem uniform, but the sinner is attackedby the serpent of bodily and mental pain.

The quiet death of a sinner is painful – the pain only known to him / her.The painful death of a Dharmarthi (righteous) is pleasant.Shlokas 26 to 48

“Narayana uvacha:On the deathbed: the sinner realizes all his crimes

The pain dwarfs his life’s pleasuresHe knows he will suffer for a long time”

10At the moment of death, the entire life of the sinner appears before him. He

realizes his sins. His sins are well known to him. He sees the Yama Dhootas

(messengers). He has visions of the hell he has earned. The one moment ofdeath feels like an age. His pain is like the stinging of a 100 scorpions. The painat death dwarfs all the pleasures he pursued in his lifetime.

He is tormented by the vision of his sins. He is tormented by the vision ofthe hells. He is tormented by the troubles his grandchildren will suffer becauseof his sins.

He sees his dead body as he is dragged away by the Yama Dhootas. Hissuffering has begun.

“Narayana uvacha:May the sinner know: hunger, thirst and pain are his only companions

The stay in hell is very long, dwarfing his earthly timeNo magic, shraddhas, gifts, vedic bribes can help him”

11The Sinner is hungry and thirsty. The blazing sun, hot winds burn his Jatana

Deha - bodyless body. He walks on a road of burning sand, unsheltered, thirstyand hungry.

The Anthya Karmas do not reach the sinner. The rice balls, the milk, thesacrifices do not reach him. His hunger and thirst are ever increasing. He knowsthat he is in for eternal starvation and raging thirst.

He who immersed himself in the joys of food and drink, now as a sinnerfinds himself eternally thirsty and hungry.

“Narayana uvacha:Money and land taken by cheating and force

Condemns him to hell on earth. He roams ever hungryFor 12 years he will be a Preta”

12If his sin includes:

1. Stealing of money2. Stealing of Dhatri / Bhoo Devi (land)

none of the death karmas done by his sons, relatives reach him.He yearns for the suffering of hell, but is left as a “Pretha Atma” for 12

years. The Pretha is forever hungry, forever thirsty, forever burning. None ofthe Shraddha karyas reach him. He sees his noble ancestors in Swarga. He seeshis ignoble ancestors suffering in hell.

“Narayana uvacha:Veda ghoshas escort the Dharmarti to Yamapuri

The path is pleasant, the journey is painlessThe shraddhas reach him, the pancha bhootas and the yama dhootas”

13The Dharmarthi is escorted to heaven by Deva Dhootas with Deva Namas

(divine chants). He is detached and is enjoying the bliss of the Lord.The Dharmarthi receives the Shraddha offerings, the rice, the Tila (black Til),

the mantra shakti. He is satisfied. The Shraddha done by his sons enriches thePancha Bhutas (5 elements) and the servants of Yama and feeds them too andenriches the world.

Shlokas 49 to 55These speak about the Shraddha rituals from day 1 to day 13. The author is

not discussing these here as they do not hold a direct metaphysical value. This isbest left to your family Sutras (Apasthamba, Bodhayana..etc) and to your familypriest.

Shloka 56

“Narayana uvacha:The journey is hellish. He struggles through 86000 yojanas

His jatana deha is always there to take the painsHis heart and mind is burning with the stupidity of his earthly life”

14The sinner, if he is not a Pretha forms a jatana deha (painful body), a replica

of his physical body from the rice balls and til offered by his sons. He begins hisjourney to Yama loka. He has to walk 86,000 yojanas (about 1 crore kms) acrossthe Vaitharani river, through 16 cities before reaching Yamapuri. He walks onburning sand, with no rest, food or water.

He travels across 16 cities of Yama loka, each giving him a taste of hiscrimes. He then reaches the resplendent Yamapuri, abode of Yama. The citywhere the child Nachiketa engaged Yama, the kind Lord of Dharma in a debateon life.

Footnotes1. See Glossary for the meaning of Sanskrit words. (general and contextual

meanings provided)

Chapter Two

The Painful Journey Of 1 Crore Miles“

Vandanams to our oral masters, acharyas, rishisWho came before Ganesha, before Ekadanta who gifted writing

Vandanams to Suka, Saunaka, Krishna Dwaipayana and Garuda”00

Shloka 1 :

“Garuda uvacha:Narayana, describe the journey of the sinful soulDescribe the punishments in the world of Yama

So that the Manava kula may know of it and avoid it”01

Garuda uvachaNarayana, describe the world of Yama. So that the Manava kula (humanity)

may know of it and avoid it.Shloka 2 to 20 :

“Narayana uvacha:Garuda, lover of Manava Kula. This knowledge can guide Manavas

The journey after death can become joyousThis knowledge can give mukti”

02Narayana uvachaI appreciate your love for humanity. This is a distressing but necessary truth.

It is liberating for the honest follower of Dharma.The journey to the land of judgement, Yama puri itself is unique. It is a

joyous journey for the Dharmarti.The entire 86,00 yojanas (1 crore kilometers) is fraught with pain for the

papatma (sinner).

1. The path is boiling hot sand2. The sun burns with the intensity of 12 suns3. No shade of a single leaf / tree4. No food5. No water6. Every moment feels like the pralaya (end of creation)7. The only relief is the stinging cold in some places8. The frequent bite of serpents, scorpions feels like a relief9. The piercing thorns are also a great relief10. He encounters huge forests, with leaves like swords. The leaves slit every

part of his body. Crows, vultures bite off his eyes, ears…. The pain is eternalas these parts grow back, only to be chewed again.

11. The sinner reaches the vaitharani river – 100 yojanas wide. It is impassableand filled with:

a. Blood, pus and rotting fleshb. Infested with leeches, crocodiles and many morec. Vultures crows and insects fly, ready to tear out the flesh

“Narayana uvacha:The vaitharani river is vile and fearsome

But the Dharmarti enjoys it as a sea of AmruthaHe crosses it with a beautiful boat, amidst divine chants”

03The blessed Narayan priya (righteous / Dharmarthi) sees the Vaitharani river

as a river of Amrutha (divine nectar). He is offered many beautiful boats tocross the river.

Shloka 21 to 32

“Narayana uvacha:The sinful joys of earth were miniscule compared to the pains of hell

Don’t blame your parents, Gurus, for not guiding you to muktiBirth as a human is a door to mukti”

04Narayana uvachaSuffering in the unpassable Vaitharani river, the sinner realizes the pleasures

of the earth were a thousand times lesser than this suffering. Whirlpools draghim deeper into the vile river. He comes out gasping for air only to be bitten by

the flying dangers.He curses his parents, his wives, his children, his priest, his guru – for not

guiding him wisely.Shloka 23 to 41He cries out for his sons and grandsons to rescue him with their good deeds.He wails

“Dur Atma uvacha:I did not search for opportunities to help

I turned away the hungry, needyI did not look out for the welfare of family, friends, relatives, village”

05

“Dur Atma uvacha:I cheated and hurt the humble and meek

I lusted after dhatri, kanchana and kanakaI sought refuge in greedy, false advisers”

06“Birth as a human being is a great gift. I was one step away from mukti. I

only had to dutifully follow my Dharma, but I failed. Having obtained humanbirth, I did not do my Dharma.”1. I did not help animals and people in need2. I hoarded food, and did not feed hungry animals and men3. I chased away the hungry with vile words4. Never gave, always sold5. I did not show interest in the welfare of my Bandhu, Bandhavas, Mitras

(Relatives & friends)6. I ignored the advice from my “Manah Sakshi”, my conscience7. I ignored good advice from my parents, uncles, aunts, wife, husband,

children, sanyasis, and the learned.8. I followed my greed, the advice of the greedy priests, greedy astrologers9. I never searched for opportunities to help, honor the deserving1. I did not do the Deva puja prescribed for me.2. Did not perform Dhaana (philantrophy)3. I did not seek out Sat Sangha (noble company)4. I did not perform Seva (selfless service)5. I did not support students (Brahmacharis)

6. I did not seek out and feed the animals7. I ate endlessly, never fasted1. I did not honor the sages, the learned and the wise2. I did not support the activities of Yagna, homa, Pooja3. I did not seek out the Vedas, Puranas, Shastras – prescribed for all Dwijas4. I used my Brahmacharya, education only to gain monetary knowledge

ignoring the social and pious knowledge.Shloka 42The sinner laments.“I have wasted this human birth.” (He now knows that he had to pass

through 8.4 Million births before ascending to the human birth. He dreads thathe has to go through that cycle again)

Shloka 43 to 46On the 18thday, he reaches the beautiful city of Saumya. He cannot enjoy the

city. He remembers his false enjoyments on earth. He remembers his pursuit ofwealth, land, fame, power and servants. (It is a beautiful city, but is miserable forthe sinner. He laments his failures)

Shloka 47 to 50

“Yama Dhoota uvacha:Where is wealth, power and prestige nowWhere is your family, wives and children

Only your righteous karmas escort you in your afterlife”07

The Yama Dhootas remind him:1. Where is your wealth now2. Where is your prestige and honor3. Where are your wives and children

Only your karmas (deeds) travel with you. You did not prepare for thisjourney. Here there is no money, buying or selling.

The wise ones tried to guide you. But you only listened to the greedyadvisors.

Shloka 51 to 65He is crossing the 16 cities of Yama Loka to reach the abode of Yama –

Yamapuri.

16 cities of Yama LokaShlokas 66 to 67

“Narayana uvacha:Your shraaddhas cannot bribe

In life, search for opportunities for DharmaWhat was not achieved in a lifetime, you cannot achieve by shraaddha”

08Upon reaching the dreaded river Vaitharani, the Yama Dhootas remind him:If you had been compassionate, made gifts and earned merits, a boat will be

waiting for you.People try to gift a cow as part of the Shraddha ceremony. No this does not

help. This does not help you to get a boat.The sinner’s children perform Shraddha for each city. These are wasted.What a man did not attain in his entire lifetime cannot be attained just by

these Shraddha offerings.Shloka 85 to 86After traversing the 16 cities, each reminding him more dreadfully of his

wasted life on earth and the gory future ahead, he reaches Yamapuri.

He enters Yamapuri through the southern gate. The southern gate is the gatefor the sinners.

FootnotesAn important theme in the Garuda Purana is: Don’t try to fool Yama / God.He is very kind, but will not be fooled. Instead of following Dharma to avoidthe southern gate (sinner’s gate) of hell, we try to avoid houses with south facingdoors.

Chapter Three

The Judgement Of Yama

Vandanams to our oral masters, acharyas, rishisWho came before Ganesha, before Ekadanta who gifted writingVandanams to Suka, Saunaka, Krishna Dwaipayana and Garuda

00

Shloka 1

“Garuda UvachaDear Lord Narayana, tell me, how Yama

The kind hearted Lord of Kala, Mrutyu and DharmaWho debated the child Nachiketa, treats the sinful soul”

01

Garuda uvachaDear Lord Narayana, having entered the southern gates of the city of Yama,

tell me, how Yama, the kind hearted, who debated the child Nachiketa, treatsthe sinful soul.

Shlokas 2 to 15

“Narayana UvachaDharmaraja keeps accounts of Karma with Shraddha

Knowing all, he validates with Kala, Mrutyu, Shravanis and moreDharma is thought and action – he knows both”

02Narayana uvachaThe Dharmaraja Yama is very meticulous about the karmas and actions of

the sinner. The all-knowing Yama knows all the actions with the intents, secretsand mental thoughts for all human actions. He meticulously consults with hisGanas (team) to further ascertain the truth:1. Dharmadhwaja - the door keeper

2. ChitraGupta – the advisor of Yama3. Sravanas – the sons of Brahma who roam all the worlds4. Sravanis – wives of Sravanas who keep an eye on all the women of the

world5. Mrityu – death himself6. Kala - time

Shlokas 15 to 17

Dharmadhwaja, ChitraGupta, Sravaṇas, Sravanis know all the sins of thesinner.

“Narayana uvacha:The vile men on earth hide their thoughts, intentions and actions

The truth is wide open to the Shraddavan YamaThere is nowhere to hide”

03

The sinner hopes that his vilest actions have escaped Yama’s eyes. But, Yamaand all these know all your secrets:1. Sun and moon2. Fire and wind3. Sky, earth and water4. The heart / conscience5. Day and night6. The two twilights (sandhyas)7. Justice

Shloka 18 to 70Having very carefully gathered all the karmas of the sinner, Yama shows his

terrible form to the sinner.He roars like Pralaya (destruction of creation), terrible with 32 arms, terrible

weapons gleaming like lightning, eyes like wells, huge fangs for teeth, red eyesand a long nose.

ChitraGupta says - O, you sinners, evil-doers, polluted with egoism,injudicious, why did you forget that you would face Yama with all your sins?Why did you commit sin?

“ChitraGupta uvacha:

DharmaRaja is unbiased, Dharma is Nish PakshapatiHe is eager to forgive all possible sins, but

Medhas, Dhanam, Kshatram, Premam do not sway him”04

Yama deals equally with the fool and the learned, the beggar and the wealthy,the strong and the weak. He will give his judgement.

Yama’s judgement is based on the accurate karmas / information he hasgathered. He is kind and forgives any untoward sins. He is merciless towards thewillful sinner. He knows the thoughts and lies in the mind of the sinner. He isnever deceived.

Yama Dhootas take away the sinner for punishment and say:

“Yama Dhoota uvacha:While we drag you, you beg for protection, mercyYou never showed mercy, compassion, forgiveness

You beg for food: you feasted when your bandhu, mitra starved”05

“Yama Dhoota uvacha:While we drag you, you beg for justice

You failed to follow Nitya, Raja and vrutti DharmaYou failed in your duty to parents, gramasta, shad Dharma”

06

“Yama Dhoota uvacha:You misused Brahmacharya

To acquire wealth. You converted wisdom into moneyYou did not teach nor share your knowledge”

07

“Yama Dhoota uvacha:You ignored your duties as a Grihasta

You did not love and respect your wife and childrenYou did not support the ashramas, the suffering, the unfortunate”

08

“Yama Dhoota uvacha:You ignored your duties as a Vanaprasthin

You continued your desire for earning money, luxuries and fameYou did not teach, guide, forgive like an elder”

09

“Yama Dhoota uvacha:You ignored your duties as a Sanyasin

You continued to exploit earth and forests for your profitYou were enamored and only helped your offspring”

10Yama Dhoota uvacha:

· You did not show love and compassion to even a dog, the holy cow, thepoor, the old, the wretched, the suffering.

· You did many deeds to hurt mother earth, you greedily stole her from herchildren, you greedily dug her up just for your selfish desires.

· You did many deeds against your Dharma.· Why did you forget that the Raja is Narayana himself? You failed your Raja

Narayana by encouraging bribes, taking bribes, not paying your taxes, notdoing your job, using your job to steal from the poor and righteous, notbeing just to honest workers, hurting families, hurting children, hurting GuruKulas.

· Why did you forget that Narayana himself is keeping the peace – you tookthe law in your own hands, you harassed the humble, you encouragedmisbehavior.

· You failed in your parental duties – you did not give enough time to yourchildren, you ignored their bad behavior, you allowed them to misbehave andmistreat your old parents and servants.

· As a Grihastha, you failed to support Brahmacharis (students) or Sanyasis(old). You ignored your relatives who had fallen on bad times, you ignoredNarayana “Sharanagatha deenartha paritrana parayanam”.

· You stole food from hungry people.· You visited temples, pilgrimages, orphanages – only for outward show,

never with love in your heart.· You beg now for forgiveness, you never forgave.

· You beg now for kindness, you never showed kindness.Shloka 71The soul with the Jatana Deha suffers for many long years, all the

punishments and torments decided by Yama. Then the soul returns to earth asa creature or human depending on his karma.

Footnotes

Chapter Four

Sins Which Lead To Hell“

Vandanams to our oral masters, acharyas, rishisWho came before Ganesha, before Ekadanta who gifted writing

Vandanams to Suka, Saunaka, Krishna Dwaipayana and Garuda”00

Shloka 1:

“Garuda uvacha:Narayana, what are the sins that tempt a soul and takes it to hellTo the tortures of the 16 Yama pattanas, the dreaded Vaitharani

The southern gate and the nyaya of Yama himself.”01

Garuḍa uvacha:Lord Narayana, what are the sins that lead a soul to hell, the tortures of the

16 cities of Yamaloka, the dreaded river Vaitharani, the southern gate ofYamapuri and finally the wrath of Yama himself.

Shloka 2:

“Narayana uvacha:Forgiveness is Yama’s Dharma, his job, his joy

Ajnana, Ajnata, Prakruti, svabhava, balya, koumarya karmasWill melt away in the mercy of my instructions”

Narayana uvacha:In my love for my human children, I have instructed the kind, loving Yama

to forgive all possible sins. All sins committed in ignorance, without intent toharm, by accident will be gladly forgiven. Sins from Balya (childhood), Youvana(youth) may be forgiven based on the intent and thoughts behind them.

“Narayana uvacha:

Papa karmas done despite the Manah sakshi, atma guru, karunyaAdvice of acharyas, parents, elders, jnanis

Will surely take the soul to the akarunya of Yama”Only those who knowingly, willfully, against their conscience, without anycompassion (karunya) commit sins, they will go to Hell. The sinner entersYamapuri only through the Southern gate.

“Narayana uvacha:Yama adores the dharmarti, karunalu, vinamra, satyavan

He makes the journey of afterlife joyousHe delights on their arrival through the 3 gates of yamapuri”

Three gates to Yamapuri (Yama’s city) are lovingly dedicated to the humble,honest, righteous Dharmarthi. He is escorted here by Devas, accompanied bydivine chants. The journey is pleasant, even the Vaitharani river becomes a riverof Amrutha for the good soul.

“Narayana uvacha:Simply put, what is my rule for this world

The universe is Anoraniya, mahato mahima. Just an extension of myselfThis should clearly tell you your Dharma”

“Narayana uvacha:Compassion towards the world is compassion towards the creator

Love, forgiveness towards all life is your dharmaSurely all the vedas, dharmas are subservient to this truth”

“Narayana uvacha:When you hurt a human, jantu, dharani – you have hurt me

Unforgiveness, greed, hatred are adharmaSurely all the rituals, sacrifices will not rescue you”

What sins make one unforgivably enter the southern gate? I will tell you asummary: 1. All thoughts and actions arising out of lack of Karunya (compassion) and

prema (love)

2. All thoughts and actions arising out of lack of kshama (forgiveness)3. All thoughts and actions arising out of disobeying ones Raja’s laws and the

laws of the land4. All thoughts and actions that knowingly cause pain, death and loss to people5. All thoughts and actions arising out of unsuppressed envy towards others

success6. Grabbing of wealth, land, forests7. Not performing Daanam (charity),8. Not performing ones duty to parents, village, profession9. Not performing ones duty towards the weak, suffering and disadvantaged10. Not offering love and protection to animals and plants

“Narayana uvacha:Sins can be against oneself, in ones mindSins can be against society, the dheenas

Sins can be from greed hatred – all sure ways to hell”While it is simple to live a righteous life, ignorant men, unaware of the purposeof the exalted human birth invent and commit many sins. I will detail it:

Mental / Verbal sins1. Secret sins2. Betray confidence3. Exaggerate faults4. Depreciate the merit5. Jealous of those who have merit6. attached to the wicked,7. turn away from the company of the good8. Despise good men9. Despise good actions10. Despise teachers11. Who try to make the happy wretched12. Who speak evil words13. Always evil-minded14. lustful towards virgins15. Who slanders virtuous women16. Not grateful to the fore fathers17. Blaming the fore fathers18. Man who despises his wife

19. Woman who despises her husband20. The ungrateful21. Disrespects todays laws22. Pious – only for outward appearances23. Entertains evil thoughts but speaks like honey24. Harbors envy, jealousy, hatred towards his Bandhu / Mitra (family /

friends)25. Betrays trust, love, confidence, friendship26. Betrays / cheats in Loukika (worldly / professional / business) matters27. Speaks ill, depreciates people28. Disrespects parents, teachers and elders

Greed / theft / cheat

1. Steal – takes anything out of turn2. Steal from a teacher3. Steal temple property4. Steal from the humble, learned5. Steal from women, widows, sisters6. Steal from children, orphans7. Those who misappropriate8. Who takes away what he gave

1. Cheats – any act with mal intent2. Cheats - removes field boundaries3. Cheats - usurps others land4. Cheats - who usurps common lands

Self-indulgent1. Supports the crooked – priest, astrologer, magician

Social sins1. Dishonor – any deserving person / atman2. Disrespect – any deserving person / atman3. Dishonor mother4. Dishonor Father5. Dishonor Teachers6. Dishonor Acharyas7. Dishonor pious men8. Disrespect wife and children9. Disrespect the poor

10. Disrespect the unfortunate11. Disrespect the disabled12. Disrespect the meek

1. Lie – speak untruth knowingly2. Lie - ascribe evil to the good,

1. Abandon their wives2. Who takes away another’s livelihood3. Who hinders others livelihood4. Did not create livelihood for the ungifted5. Not pay their share for village activities6. Who give false witness7. Who perform false duties8. Who earn by cheating9. And who gain a livelihood by thieving10. Who destroy the chastity of widows11. Destroys shrines12. Destroys people’s houses13. Eat, while their wives, children, servants and teachers are hungry14. Quarrelsome15. Creating quarrels among others16. Rape of the unprotected woman17. Makers and sellers of swords and bows – to thieves, robbers and enemies of

the kingdom18. No compassion to the needy19. Punish the guiltless20. Who do not feed the hungry who come to your door21. Betray their friends22. Those who cut short friendship23. Those who destroy hopes24. Sets fire to a house, a village25. Sows ill will among newly weds

Mother earth1. Who cut down and destroy big trees, gardens and forests2. Who destroy wells, tanks, ponds3. Who obstruct roads4. Who damage roads5. Who digs the earth, just for fun

6. Who digs the earth to cheat7. Who digs the earth wastefully, for self indulgence8. Corrupt mother earth by – throwing bodily refuse everywhere, polluting

water9. Polluting the air by Burning nasty things10. Sets fire to a tree11. Does not help a damaged tree / plant

Animals1. Who treat all animals poorly2. Who do not treat animals as brothers3. Who assume all creatures are harmful4. Who are cruel to animals

Murder etc / Child women / abala1. Infanticides,2. Murderers of women,3. Destroyers of the embryo4. Who kills animals for his own gratification

Who drinks the milk of the tawny cow

Generosity1. Does not fulfil promises made to the poor2. Does not fulfil promises made to the learned / pious / temples / Brâhmiṇs,

Modern crimes1. Who give false witness2. Disrespects his Raja and todays laws of the land

Weird stuff1. Drinkers of intoxicants,2. Slayers of owls3. Despise places of pilgrimage4. Disparage the Purâṇas,5. Disparage the Vedas,6. Disparage the Mîmâṁsâ,7. Disparage the Nyâya8. Disparage the Vedânta;9. Obstructs sacrifices

10. Who prevents the telling of stories11. Not performing Shraddhas12. Who neglect vows and pilgrimages,13. Selling hair14. Selling body parts

Shloka xxNarayana uvacha:The evil human is rewarded in hell by Prachanda, Chandaka and his men.Baked in pits of fire till hands and legs are burntLeft in the forest of sword-like leaves and grassWhen thirsty, he is given boiling oilIt is indeed sad, the fate of the sinner. Worse because, his atma Guru, his

Manas warned him against the crimes. He still he ignored them.

Shloka 60 to 64

“Narayana uvacha:In my grace, I offer eternal mukti to all humans

In my grace, hell is a transient placeYou will return through punar janma, another opportunity for mukti”

The only good news is that, this suffering is not eternal. After suffering inproportion to their sins, they return to earth (punar janma).

In my grace, I have given another opportunity to redeem themselves.The high sinners may be born as lowly creatures, even as low as not

differentiating between mother, daughter, son and father. They progressthrough many births to reach a human life again

The ones with genuine prayaschitta (mental atonement), meritorious ones,ones with pious children, pious grand children are born as humans.

Footnotes

Chapter Five

The Fruit Of Sins In Punar Janma“

Vandanams to our oral masters, acharyas, rishisWho came before Ganesha, before Ekadanta who gifted writing

Vandanams to Suka, Saunaka, Krishna Dwaipayana and Garuda”Shloka 1:

“Garuda uvachaMukti, eternal oneness with the supreme is your gift to manu kula

Punar janma is a reality for souls going to hell and heavenTell me the impact of sins on punar janma”

Garuḍa uvacha:Tell me about the impact of the sins on Punar Janma.Shloka 2 toNarayana uvacha:I have predetermined exactly how sins and merits are weighed. I have

instructed how prayaschitta should be considered. I have instructed how sinsshould be forgiven. Now nature and Yama take care.

This chapter goes into details of how the weight of a demerit is determined.The discussion of this detail is reserved by the Acharyas. This is only for thehighly evolved in this knowledge.

Narayana explains the complex calculation of depletion of sins in hell,determination of the form in punar janma, carry over of sins into the new birth.

I am only permitted to share 2 gems from this chapter:Narayana’s kindness is such that, he promises that you will not be consigned

to eternal hell.The highest sinner also gets an opportunity to redeem himself through good

living and good karma.Some Kamya Karma papas (willful sins), of which it is forbidden to be

spoken(mostly sins against children, disabled etc), are such that they consign thesinner to eternal hell. Even the love and kindness of Narayana cannot save sucha sinner.

Footnotes

Chapter Six

The Bliss Of Mukti, The Misery Of Punar Janma“

Vandanams to our oral masters, acharyas, rishisWho came before Ganesha, before Ekadanta who gifted writing

Vandanams to Suka, Saunaka, Krishna Dwaipayana and Garuda”00

Shloka 1

“Garuda uvachaDear Narayana, in your kind love, you have offered mukti to manu kula

Heaven, hell and earth are but stopping points before rebirthTell me, why rebirth is to be avoided”

Garuda uvacha:Tell me o Narayana, why is the process of birth a painful one?Shloka 2 to 26

“Narayana uvachaIn my deep love for manu kula, I made hell transient

I am pained when my bhakta aims for heavenMy loving gift id the eternal mukti – oneness with me”

Narayana uvacha:Hinduism is unique in propounding the idea of “Punar Janma”. Rebirth

offers an opportunity for the soul to cleanse itself and attain Mukti, eternal bliss.A soul may have to pass through 8.4 Million births from the smallest virus /

bacteria through reptiles / worms before it reaches the exalted human form.Shlokas 2 to 26 offer an insight that is much appreciated by scientists /

biologists. It offers a stage by stage developmental picture of the human embryo

till birth. If you wish to delve into this, please feel free to study the detailed textunder a learned master. (you will find references / recommendations in theAppendix)

A couple of gems in this chapter:Shloka 16 to 23:

“Narayana uvacha:The baby in the womb remembers its journey through 84 lakh yonisIt laments – “as soon as I am born, I forget my journey to mukti

I start believing that this life is my ultimate goal””

“Narayana uvacha:The human soul discovers the vasana of its real purposeIn the midst of deep penance, Nish kama karma seva

Vrutti dharma, bhakti yoga and Sat sangha”

The embryonic soul retains the Vasana / memory of the past births.The baby in the womb says “Oh Lord, I was deluded in my earlier birth. I

was misled by pleasures, wealth, fame, wrong love for my son and wife. I wastedmy life. I committed sins”

Shloka 27:The embryonic soul retains the Vasana / memory of the past births. Upon

birth, this knowledge is lost.Knowledge from the past Janmas (births) creeps in in the following

situations:· In the womb· During illness· On the cremation ground

A very few lucky ones really have the blessing of this knowledge during: · Involved performance of ones professional Dharma· Deeply involved Seva· Deep meditation / worship· Sat sangha / studying the Puranas

Shloka 37:

“Narayana uvacha:In my kindness and love, I have given this world to manava kula

Mans doom is in searching for what he does not haveI am prasanna, when manava gratefully enjoys what he has”

Man is always seeking what he does not have. This is his undoing.I have given generous boons to humanity. Enjoy it without complaint.Narayana gives us this wisdom – “Enjoy what you have. In that enjoyment,

avoid dishonesty, greed, give generously. This is the way to avoid the southerngates of Yama”

Shloka 39 to 40:The Soul attains this human birth after 8.4 million past lives. Human life is to

be used to attain mukti. Man misses this golden opportunity for mukti. Hefoolishly, ignorantly pursues trivial earthly pleasures.

Footnotes

Chapter Seven

The Story Of Babruvahana“

Vandanams to our oral masters, acharyas, rishisWho came before Ganesha, before Ekadanta who gifted writing

Vandanams to Suka, Saunaka, Krishna Dwaipayana and Garuda”00

Shloka 2 to 4

“Garuda uvachaDear Narayana, what is the terrible Preta atma

Can preta atma be freed by putras, yagnas, homas, giftsWhy is this state worse than hell”

Garuda uvacha:Dear Lord Narayana, what is the “Pretha Atma”. I hear “Pretha Atma” is

stuck for 12 years in sharp hunger and burning thirst. He does not even qualifyfor the pains of hell.

How can a sinner trapped as a “Pretha Atma” get redemption?Is their liberation in putras? yagna karmas ? Homas? Veda mantras? Puranas?

Vrathas? Gifts to priests ? Gifts to astrologers?

Shloka 5

“Narayana uvacha:Garuda, kind hearted king of birds

You care for the most wretched “Preta atma”Listen to this purana of King Babruvahana and the vyapari”

Narayana uvacha:Your concern for the most wretched proves your kind heart. Your belief in

“Vasu daiva kutumbam” makes you ask this.

Shlokas 16 to 19:I will give you the uplifting story of King Babruvahana, a Kshatriya and

Sucheta, a Vaishya businessman.Babruvahana was a righteous king. Kind and considerate to his subjects.Respectful and worshipping towards his elders and acharyas.Just in the handling of state affairs.Fearsome but fair to his enemies.Babruvahana once ended up deep in the forest on a hunt. Resting under a

tree,, he saw a “Preta Atma” / wandering soul. It was the most terrible sight thatthe battle hardened king had seen. He could see hunger and thirst burning in thestomach.

Shloka 33 to 34:The king enquired: What has caused you this dreadful, torturous, unhappy

state ? How can I help you overcome this state?Shloka 35 to 41I was a successful Shresti (businessman. Today used as Shetty). I did all my

duties of love and charity. I did not miss any opportunity to do righteous deeds.I had many children, friends and family. But alas, I had also earned somemoney unjustly.

After my death, sons and wife performed my “Antya Kriyas” and Shraddha.I did not receive any benefit as my sons were not righteous. So I am a “PretaAtma” for the last 3 years.

“Narayana uvacha:Preta is the stateless state, worse than hell

One who cheats for money or land is cursed into thisHe roams for 12 years with the fire of hunger and thirst”

Vidura reiterates this in Vidura Neeti – part of the Ramayana. Wealth / landearned unfairly will throw you into “Preta Atma” suffering for 12 years.

Shloka 42-45:Dear King, I have heard much about your ways of Dharma. I believe every

coin you possess is rightfully earned. If you kindly perform my kriyas (rituals), Iwill be able to move on from this horrible state. Each day feels like a year. Everymuscle hurts with the pain of a 100 stings. I am constantly burning, even in thiscool forest. Please help me my king.

“Narayana uvacha:Shraddas, I have limited to the righteous

Either the Mruta atma has to be righteous or the kartaIf the Mruta atma or Karta are sinners – the shraddha is worse than wasted”

My savior, all that is needed is a simple “Antya Kriya” with humble offerings.But the most important is a righteous Karta (doer) and fairly earned, untaintedmoney.

Worship Vishnu, Brahma, Shiva and Pitru Devathas with a calm and humbleheart. Pray for my release.

Shloka 64 to 65:King Babruvahana performed the Shraaddha rituals with utmost Shraddha

(attention / devotion). He showered the love of a protector king and also thelove of a devout child. By the power of this Shraddha,, the Preta Shresti wasreleased from his Ptreta state.. He attained heaven through his merits.

Upon death a soul becomes a Preta. If the deceased has acquired wealth orland unfairly, he will not attain a Jatana Deha. He will remain a Preta for 12years.

If he has sufficient merits, or the merits of the Kartha (doer – son /grandson/ son-in-law etc..) and the power of the funeral rites, the Preta may bereleased from the Preta state, It acquires a Jatana Deha , feeds on the offeringsand starts its journey towards Yamapuri.

“Narayana uvacha:Beware the Preta Atma state

Ill gotten wealth is your worst curseBhoo devi and Shri Devi are indeed my dear Lakshmi”

Beware the Preta Atma state.Ill gotten wealth is your worst curse.Bhoo devi (earth) is indeed my dear Lakshmi (Narayana consort). She is

known by many names Dhatri, Medha, Mahi, Prithvi, Bhumi, Bhuvana, Kshitij,Dhara, Dharani, Medini, Varahi. Through ill gotten land, you displeased Me andLakshmi. Ill gotten land is your worst curse.

Shri devi (earth) is indeed my dear Lakshmi (Narayana consort). She isknown by many names Dhana Lakshmi, Dhanya Lakshmi, Santana Lakshmi,Sowbhagya Lakshmi, Vijaya Lakshmi, Vidya Lakshmi, Gaja Lakshmi, Narayani,

Hiranmayi, Deepa. Through ill gotten wealth, you displeased Me and Lakshmi.Ill gotten wealth is your worst curse.

“Narayana uvacha:One hope for a sinner is to bring up virtuous children or shishyas

Any son cannot be your Putra – remover from Put hellYour stolen wealth corrupted your son, rendering his shraadda a waste”

It is true that vile, non righteous children are useless. Their “Antya Kriyas”and the Shraddhas do not reach the departed soul.

The most learned priest / Brahmins cannot reverse these laws. The Atma ison his own. What you did not earn in a lifetime, cannot be earned by othermeans.

Shloka 70:

“Narayana uvacha:Beware the Preta Atma state.

Ill gotten wealth is your worst curseBhoo devi and Shri Devi are indeed my dear Lakshmi”

Narayana uvacha:He is fortunate who hears this story. He is truly blessed who respectfully

follows this story and avoids ill gained wealth and the pain of Preta Atma andhell.

Footnotes

Chapter Eight

14: How Yama Honors The Righteous In Yamapuri“

Vandanams to our oral masters, acharyas, rishisWho came before Ganesha, before Ekadanta who gifted writing

Vandanams to Suka, Saunaka, Krishna Dwaipayana and Garuda”00

Shloka 1 to 2:

“Garuda uvacha:Compassionate Narayana, tell me, what the righteous, humble souls

Experience after deathDo they suffer Vaitharani? Directly to heaven? Dragged by the Yama dhootas?”

Garuda uvacha:Narayana, O Lord of compassion. Tell me, what the righteous, humble souls

experience in Yama Loka.

Shloka 3 to 5:Narayana uvacha:Oh. That wonderful shining city of Yama. It is the best example of duality. It

is burning, rotting hell for sinners. It is the most serene, joy filled abode for therighteous Dharmarti.

The city is:· Serene· Has lovely dwellings· Filled with songs and music· Filled with the songs of various birds· Beautiful with gardens and parks· Always decorated· Created by the vishwakarma, architect of the Universe

In the middleof Yamapuri, is the dwelling of Yama. Justice & Dharma shineslike lightning, flame and the sun

His palace hall is open to all the righteous. It is the preferred abode of theblessed. Among those present are:

Yamas retinue:Chitragupta , Mṛityu, kala , Agnisvattha, Pitris, the Somapas, the Usmapas,

the Barhisads, the AryamasSages:Atri, Vasisthaa, Pulaha, Daksha, Kraturatha, Angiras, Jamadagnya, Bhrigu,

Pulastya, Agastya, NaradaKings of the Solar Race:Manu, Dilipa, Mandhata, Sagara, Bhagiratha, Ambarisha, Anaranya,

Muchakunda, Nimi, Prithu,Kings of the Lunar Race:Yayati, Nahusa, Puru; Dushmanta, Sibi, Nala, Bharata, Shantanu, Pandu,

SahasrarjunaElephants: the family of Airavata, Horses: the family of Uchchaishrava

It is a welcoming place for the blessed, Dharmarti.

Other notable Shlokas:Chitra Gupta: Sarvajna – knower of everything. Always right in judging good

and evil. Shlokas 46 to 47

“Narayana uvacha:Only Satya Dharma and evidence prevails in Yama loka

No escape for the sinner who deftly escaped punishment on earthNo forgiveness for the sinner who takes refuge in rituals and magic”

Righteousness alone prevails in the assembly of the King of Justice. There isthere no favoritism, no untruthfulness, and no jealousy.

Shloka 50

“Narayana uvacha:Only task for manava – search for opportunities to be righteous

Seek Opportunities for Karunya, kshma, premaSearch Opportunities to please Shiva, Narayana, Brahma”

Dharma raja welcomes the righteous. 3 gates reserved for the righteous, only1 for the many many sinners.

Now I will tell you who are righteous. I will tell you the easy path to muktithrough righteousness:1. Always search for opportunities to do the righteous tasks2. Always search for opportunities for karunya, prema, kshama3. Follow the sutras I have given,4. Follow the sutras I will give through raja5. Obey the raja’s laws and the laws of the land6. Conduct all thoughts and actions with karunya (compassion) and prema

(love)7. Practice kshama (forgiveness)8. Avoid and never cause pain, death and loss to people9. Envy, jealousy, anger etc are natural – don’t let them grow.10. Earn wealth and land honestly11. Give daanam (charity),12. Enjoy your duty to parents, village, profession13. Help the weak, suffering and disadvantaged14. Generously offer love and protection to animals and plants

Adopt as many of the righteous tasks, always with a clear, honest heart:1. Truth-speaking2. Tranquil3. Renouncing4. Accomplished5. And purified by good actions6. Bodies glow with joy7. Genuine worshippers of the gods8. Who give rest-houses in the summer9. And who give fuel in winter10. Shelter ascetics in their houses during the rains11. And make them gifts12. Those who speak consolation to the mentally distressed13. And certainly those who give a hermitage14. Delight in truth and righteousness15. Those free from anger and greed16. Those devoted to father and mother17. Those taking pleasure in the service of their teacher18. Make gifts based on “samvidhana” (understanding the needs and desires)19. Those who impart learning; those who tell and listen to the puranas

20. Learned in the vedas21. Also those who honor guests22. Die in the pursuit of righteousness23. And those who die of vow of starvation24. Those who die in benares25. Those who die in the protection of cattle26. Die for the sake of brahmins27. In the service of the master28. At the sacred waters and on holy ground29. Honor the deserving30. Self-reliant31. Contented32. Those who contemplate the good scriptures33. Turn away from injury to others34. Turn away from the wealth of others35. From calumny36. Those faithful to their wives37. Those who maintain household fires38. Those who repeat the vedas39. Forest dwellers40. The austere41. Those intent upon renunciation42. Those who look equally upon gold, stone and earth43. Those who have attained knowledge and dispassion44. Those intent upon the welfare of all beings45. Those who are rid of the three-fold debt46. Those who always take pleasure in the five sacrifices47. Those who perform śrâddha for the forefathers48. Those who perform the sandhyâ at the proper times49. Abstain from the company of the wicked50. Devoted to the society of the good

Shlokas 74 to 85.

“Narayana uvacha:Yama washes the feet of those deserving mukti

Yama welcomes those deserving heavenYama, with sadness in his heart dispenses ghastly punishments to the sinners”

“Narayana uvacha:Yama washes the feet of those deserving mukti

You have indeed achieved the goal of manava janmaYou have delighted Narayana. Go live in oneness with Shiva”

“Narayana uvacha:Yama welcomes those deserving heaven

Enjoy the joys of heaven, the bliss, the holinessReturn to the karmic, punar janma”

“Narayana uvacha:Yama sadly dispenses ghastly punishments to the sinnersUnfortunately, too much is said and known about thisYet, man lives like there is no consequence after death”

Yama rejoices on seeing the righteous souls. He welcomes them. He honors& serves them as Atithi Devas. He offers them his throne, washes their feet,bows to them and decorates them with sandal-paste and other things.

The exalted souls who have attained mukti can proceed to the feet of theLord in Vaikunta, Kailasa and Brahma Loka and become one with Shiva.

The good souls go to the holy place Swarga (heaven)and enjoy the divinejoys. After exhausting your good karmas, after a very long many years, you willreturn to earth in a further exalted human form.

86. Garuda, Hearing my description of Yamapuri is a blessing. Truly blessedis the one who follows the wisdom I have given.

Footnotes

Chapter Nine

15: Account Of The Punar Janma Of People WhoHave Done Good

“Vandanams to our oral masters, acharyas, rishis

Who came before Ganesha, before Ekadanta who gifted writingVandanams to Suka, Saunaka, Krishna Dwaipayana and Garuda”

00Shlokas 1 to 2:

“Garuda uvacha:Why have you made humans the pinnacle of your Srishti

Tell me about your love for humansTell me the loving gifts you have showered on humans”

Why is birth as a human considered a superior boon? Tell me about the giftsyou have showered to make human birth a blessing.

Shlokas 3 to 4:Narayana uvacha:I will tell you the real fortune of human life. I will tell you about this Srishti

(creation). I will tell you how to attain bliss on earth.

Shloka 5 to 90In just 85 shlokas, this text provides the treasure trove of:

1. A detailed treatise on the science of conception and reproduction2. A detailed treatise on the entire human physiology3. A detailed treatise on the Yogic and pranayama practice of Chakras.

Shloka 91 to 94:

“Narayana uvacha:I am delighted when my human creation attains mukti

I made heaven and hell temporary

Humans will return to the karmic cycle and attain mukti”

Humans should focus on the ultimate goal: mukti. I am sad when a humanonly aims for Swarga. Like Naraka (hell) swarga is a temporary place. They willreturn to earth, to the cycle of life. They must aim for mukti.

“Narayana uvacha:Every man adopts a Vrutti – Vrutti dharma will lead you to Me

Every man is born into a society – Samsara dharma will lead you to MeBhakti, tapas and yoga will lead you to Me”

Bhakti, following his Vrutthi Dharma (Professional ethics), Samsara Dharma(Social ethics) Tapas and Yoga are the simplest tools for Swarga and mukti

95. I have given all the Jeeva Shastras. I have also given the knowledge ofSwarga and mukti. The blessed will adopt the knowledge of mukti.

Footnotes

Chapter Ten

16: Narayana’s Path Of Righteousness To SwargaAnd Mukti

“Vandanams to our oral masters, acharyas, rishis

Who came before Ganesha, before Ekadanta who gifted writingVandanams to Suka, Saunaka, Krishna Dwaipayana and Garuda”

00

Shlokas 1 to 4:

“Garuda uvacha:Narayana, you enlightened me with the Jnana ofKarma, dharma, punar janma, yama dharma

Now tell me about mukti which is the path you want manava kula to take”Garuḍa uvacha:My Lord Narayana, Ocean of compassion, Ruler of the Devas, so farYou have enlightened me about karma and DharmaYou have enlightened me about Punar Janma / cycle of birth and deathYou have enlightened me about the justice of YamaTell me how a soul can attain mukti / liberation or immortal joy.

Shloka 5 to 10

“Narayana uvacha:With great effort, man can avoid hellWith ease, man can attain heaven

With true knowledge, man can attain Me, mukti”I have told you how man can avoid hell. Now I will tell you how man can

attain mukti, which is divine, which is eternal.Shiva (also known as Brahman) is the all-knowing, all-doing, Lord of all and

limitless. beginningless and endless, beyond the Beyond, Being and Knowing,

without attributes. He is eternal Bliss. Every soul is a part of the divine Shiva.When one attains mukti, the soul becomes part of Shiva again.

Shlokas 11 to 21:

“Narayana uvacha:I am the Vishwa, the Vishwa is me

Everything came from Me, everything must come back to MeEvery soul came from Me, every soul must come back to Me”

“Narayana uvacha:The soul starts life as the minutest, with a kshanika life

It passes through 84 laksha jeevas to reach Manava JeevanaManava janma is the blessed final step before mukti, oneness with Me”

The soul starts its journey as the smallest, humblest being. It transmigrates8.4 million creature bodies. It suffers through many births. It journeys throughlife as flies, worms, flesh eaters, ignorant beings before attaining Manava Janma.One becomes a man only after this journey.

The human birth is the final step to mukti / oneness with Shiva / liberation.Man is at the cusp of a great opportunity. If man uses this divine, goldenopportunity, if he is righteous and if he becomes a knower he attains mukti /liberation. He is unfortunate, uninformed who is not aware of this momentousopportunity.

Shlokas 22 to 25:

“Narayana uvacha:Manava janma is very short, it disappears like lighteningManava must use every moment to advance towards mukti

Manava must hunt for every opportunity to show karuna, kshama and love”Manava janma has many distractions. False love for family, greed for fame

are utmost. Old age comes quickly like a tigress. Life flows away like water froma broken pot. Diseases attack like foes.

One should carefully prepare for these. Before these come, he should strivefor merit and righteousness every available moment.

Before misery strikes, before calamity befalls, before the senses decay, he

should strive for merit and righteousness every available moment.

Shlokas 26 to 32:

“Narayana uvacha:Manava janma is like a bubble on water, fleeting

Manava janma is like the parijathas bloom, momentaryManava janma is like lightening, gone before it arrives”

The time of death is not known. Life is fleeting. Even a life of 100 years is verylittle.

Between childhood, oldage, disease, sleep, laziness – there is little time toearn a place at the feet of Shiva. Use every moment to shun delusion, bad desire.Use every moment to perform punya, dharma, karunya1. The stupid man digs his well when the corner of his house is already afire.2. Between imaginary happiness and misery, man does not know his own

good.3. Riches are like a dream;4. Youth is like a flower,5. Life is fickle as lightning6. Body / this life lasts like a bubble on water

Man does not learn even after seeing others who are suffering, dying, dead,despairing, miserable. All because of false knowledge. By ignoring the simple,absolute truth, he faces the fear of hell, loses mukti

Shlokas 33 to 35:

“Narayana uvacha:To the deluded: Kraurya looks beneficial

Akshama feels rightNaimisha feels permanent”

In false knowledge he thinks:· The harmful is beneficial,· The evil is good· The impermanent is permanent,· Though seeing, he stumbles· Though hearing, he does not listen· Though reading, he does not realize· Deluded by Maya (the divine magic).

Man is grasped by the crocodiles of death, disease and old age. He refuses tounderstand that life is immersed in the ocean of death.

.Shlokas 36 to 38:Time reduces

· Mount Meru is to powder;· Dries oceans

Just as an unbaked pot melts in water, Time is wearing away. Man refuses tonotice.

Life is wearing away. Your journey towards mukti, heaven or hell, has begun.Life cannot be made permanent.1. The impossible can be made possible2. Air may be enclosed,3. Ether may be split4. Waves may be bound

But, life cannot be made permanent.

Shlokas 39 to 44:Man is lost in the trivial.Like a grazing lamb, he jumps from task to task. The wolf of death forcibly

slays the lambMan worries about actions – done, to be done. Death strikes whether you are

busy or asleepMan worries about his wife, children – death may even come on the eve of

marriage or childbirth. Death may come in the form of wife or child.Man works for gold laced clothes – death disrobes him and takes him away

nakedMan worries about youth, age, beauty – death attacks the embryo, children,

youth, the oldMan spends his life for good food – death strikes the fat or hungry, the

thirsty or satiated, the unbathed or unbathed, the scholar or unlettered.Misery makes him sad, success makes him happy – death strikes both the

successful and sad

Shlokas 45 to 48:Eventually every body, every soul goes to the abode of Yama.A man bound in iron may be released, but the fetters of Maya – wife /

husband, son, children, wealth, fame, success, popularity and many more, mancan never be freed. Family and fame become the lame excuse for pursuing

adharma.

Shlokas 49 to 51:In this world avoid these perils:

· Unnecessary desire / attachment· Unnecessary wealth· Luxuries for the body

All these will pierce man’s heart with a dagger of sorrow in this worldAll these steal the joys of the mind in this worldA fish sees the bait, but bites the hook. Man pursues Adharmic pleasures, but

ends up in the torments of Yama.

Shlokas 52 to 55:The lowest creatures experience:

· Pleasures of sex· Pleasures of food· Pleasures of unconsciousness (this can also be considered the pleasures of

liquor..)I have blessed only Manu kula to know the truth. Only man knows the path

to mukti.One who behaves only like a beast, will be reborn a beast. Of course, after

passing through hell and punar janma.All men, who are attached to excess pleasure, wealth, wife and other things,

are born and die deluded by ignorance.

Shlokas 56 to 57:

“Narayana uvacha:Should man overcome the desire for family, good food, sex, wealth, comforts

The question is wrong. Do not ask itI created the world for the enjoyment of Manu Kula”

Can man overcome the desire for sex, good food, wealth, comforts?It is not desirable to give up enjoyment of the fruits I gifted you. It is not

possible to give up sex, good food, wealth, comforts. Enjoy them with a trueunderstanding.· Know that life is kshanika, mukti is the only human goal· This world is Me. I am this world. Any pain you cause to anybody is pain to

Me· Attach yourself to the Dharmic.· Adopt Love, shun hatred· Adopt Compassion, shun ignoring· Adopt forgiveness, shun revenge· Adopt Good sex, shun promiscuity· Adopt Harmless pleasures, shun cruel ones· Adopt Dharmic wealth, shun misuse of wealth· Adopt Sattvic food, shun indulgence· Adopt Good sleep, shun laziness· Adopt humility, shun display of wealth· Adopt Good friendship, shun blind attachment

Take shelter in My Name

Shloka 58Do not renounce your duty. Follow your duty truly, else you are destined to

the tyranny of Yama’s kindness. (Dharma, duty is based on ones role,profession, age etc – not on caste, status etc)

Shlokas 59 to 60:

“Narayana uvacha:Spend every moment trying to perform tasks for mukti

Spend every moment in karunya, kshama and loveDo not be misled by rituals, greed, family”

Some are misled by:· Repetitions of mantras· Elaborate ceremonies,· Elaborate rituals· Oblations and sacrifices· Practice of vows;· Pomp and false claims of imposters

Shlokas 61 to 62:

“Narayana uvacha:Meditate on the true knowledge

Use the jnana jvala of true knowledge to avoid peddlers of false promises

Use the jnana jvala of true knowledge to avoid false knowledge”Maya fools people into:

· Fasts· Ascetisisms· Magic

These outward / bodily methods are like hitting an anthill, while the serpentis safely resting well inside the anthill.

Maya comes in the form of temptation:· Hypocrites, putting on appearances· Wearing matted hair,· Dressing in deer skins,· Deludes people.

Beware of the imposter: who claims to be a knower, who is devoid ofcompassion, good behavior and true knowledge.

Beware of the knower, who is attached to pleasures, anger, selfishness.These imposters should be shunned like a dangerous serpent.

Shlokas 65 to 69:

“Narayana uvacha:Beware of the delusions of Maya

Simple dress, Vibuthi, simple food, holy dips, holy food, fasts, giftsAll are wasted without the true knowledge of karunya, kshama and Prema”

Does simple dress make man a knower - Donkeys are simple looking andnaked. Are these free from attachment?

Do ashes, holy places on earth and dust make man a knower - dogs whichlive among earth and ashes. Are they liberated?

Does vegetarian food make man a knower - deer and others, feed upongrass, leaves and water. Do these become ascetics?

Does living in a forest make man a knower – rats and others live in forests.Do these become ascetics?

Does eating raw meat make man a knower The jackals and others eat rawmeat. Do these become ascetics?

Does dipping in the Ganga make man a knower? The crocodiles, fishes andothers, from birth to death, live in the river Ganga. Do these become Yogis?

Does observing fasts and vows make man a knower? Pigeons at times eatstones, the Chataka birds fasts its entire life. Do these become Yogis?

Shloka 70These practices fool / delude people. These practices help the dishonest fool

others. But only the knowledge I have given leads to mukti.

Shlokas 71to 73:

“Narayana uvacha:Meditate on the true knowledge

Do not be ensnared by vedas, grammar, rituals, poetry, metreListen to your atma guru, wisened with the true knowledge”

Many are the traps that mislead you from mukti:· Being trapped in the words and grammar of the Shat Darshanas (six Indian

philosophies)· Tossed hither and thither in the ocean of Vedas and Shastras· Caught in the six waves they remain sophists· Bound in the snare of greedy prayer

Garuda, O Lord of Birds, All this prevents people from understanding thereal good.

Loud chanting of the Vedas, the Shastras and the Puranas, without the trueknowledge is like imitating accurately, the speech of a crow.

Shlokas 71 to 76:Poetry, Oratory, Grammar, rules, rituals – without love for the real truth is

the fascination of fools.

Shlokas 76 to 77:The Shastras are difficult to explain. The highest experience is difficult to

explain.Some preachers become engrossed in their knowledge and become egoists.The truth can only be understood from me, by thinking of me.

Shlokas 78 to 82:· Chanting of the vedas does not guarantee understanding.· The spoon that holds the food, does not know the taste of the food.· The head bears flowers, only the nostril knows the smell· A foolish goatherd, with the young goat under his arm, searches everywhere.· Darkness never disappears by talking about a lamp.· Mirror is useless to the blind

These are but mere tools.

Shlokas 83 to 84:If one lives for a thousand celestial years he cannot reach the end of the

Shastras.The Shastras are numerous; life is brief; Take the essence - like the Hamsa

swan taking the milk in the water.

Shlokas 85 to 86:Vedas and shastras are like the stalks of true knowledge. Once we take the

grains, we abandon the straw.Vedas and Shastras are like mere food, while the true knowledge is like

Amruta (divine nectar)

Shlokas 87 to 88:

“Narayana uvacha:Mukti is simple – can only be attained by the simple truthWhen led by true knowledge, karuna, kshama and Prema

The Ashramas, Vrutti Dharma, Bhakti become vimanas to mukti”Mukti / Emancipation is by knowledge alone, not through the vedas, O son

of Vinata.Only when you are led by true knowledge – the Ashramas (stages of life -

Brahmacharya, Grihasta, Vanaprasta, Sanyasa) are beneficialOnly when you are led by true knowledge – the Darshanas (Six Hindu

philosophies – Sankya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Mimamsa and Vedanta) arebeneficial

Only when you are led by true knowledge – the prescribed rituals arebeneficial

Shlokas 89 to 90:The true knowledge I preach is the magical Sanjivini herb to human life.Shabda Brahman – the knowledge through Vedas, Shastras, Puranas is a tool

to achieve the Para Brahman. Shabda Brahman presents many opinions“Ekam Sat.

Vipra bahuda vadante”Para Brahman – the true knowledge is achieved not by study, not by the

teachings of a guru. It is only achieved by deep thinking and meditation on thetruth. The Atma Guru is the only source.

Shlokas 93 to 94:The path to Mukti can only be realized by:

· Stability of mind· Meditation upon the Shastras,· Love for the Atma Guru

Shlokas 98 to 99:So long as one does not reach Truth, so long should he do austerities, vows,

pilgrimage to sacred waters, recitations, oblations, worship and reading of theprescribed texts of the Vedas and Śâstras.

Therefore, if one desires liberation for himself, O Târkṣya, he should everyeffort, always, and under all circumstances he attached to Truth.

Therefore from the mouth of the Blessed Teacher the Truth of the selfshould be known. By knowledge the being is easily released from the awfulbondage of the worlds of change.

Listen! I will tell you now about the final actions of the knower of the Truth,by which he obtains liberation, which is called the Nirvana of Brahman.

Shlokas 103 to 107:

“Narayana uvacha:True knowledge will naturally lead you to the four ashramas

Brahmacharya for humble learning of lifes truth, grihasta for pleasureVanaprasta for elderly kindness, sanyasi for detached attachment to the Lord”

Just follow the Ashramas with understanding.Brahmachari – learn compassion, love, Dharma. Practice unattached, humble

livingGrihasta – Enjoy the right pleasures. Do the Shat Dharmas. Follow the

Dharma of your profession fully. Resist temptation to perform Adharma.Vanaprasta:With reason as the charioteer, contented asceticism as his chariot, he should

withdraw from the pursuit of worldly pleasures, should fix his mind, on the pureBrahman.

In Sanyasa, as his last days approach, he should:1. Wander away from home2. Visit holy bathing places3. Sitting alone on a pure seat.4. He should joyfully meditate on Brahman

(this stage is beautifully elaborated by Sankaracharya in his “BhajaGovindam”)

Shlokas 109 to110:He attains mukti who is:

1. Free from pride and delusion2. Evils of attachment conquered3. Always dwelling in the Higher Self,4. With desires overcome,5. Released from the contracts known as pleasure and pain,

Shlokas 115 to 117

“Narayana uvacha:I have given you the essence of all Jnana

I have given you the essence of all creationThis blessed true knowledge will be called “Garuda Purana””

I have thus shared the extracted essence of all the scriptures, the trueknowledge about this eternal world.

Moreover, I have warned you of all the false delusions and traps.O Garuda, may your love for humanity enable them to obtain this

knowledge.Manava Janma (Human birth) is the gateway to mukti.A few humble, realized souls attain mukti / Shiva aikya / Brahma loka /

Kailasa vasa / liberationThe righteous men go to heaven;Sinners Journey through the Vaitharani, 18 Yama puris and suffer the justice

of Yama, Chitra Gupta, ……Parama Paapis (deep sinners), who are not even fit for Hell, suffer for 12

years as PrethasLower souls transmigrate.

Shlokas 118 to 120

“Garuda uvacha:My jnana daha is fulfilled

May manava kula benefit from this knowledgeMay they be blessed with Swarga, may they achieve mukti”

Garuda uvacha:O Lord, O God of Gods, O. Protector!I stand freed from doubts. My quest for knowledge has been completely

fulfilled.May humans benefit from this knowledge. May they avoid hell. May they

enjoy Swarga loka. Better still, may they enjoy mukti.

Shloka 121

“Garuda uvacha:Narayana – controller of sristi stithi laya will bless you

May the “Garuda Purana” embed in your heartManava, follow even one rule of this true knowledge for mukti”

Garuda uvacha:May Hari, whose smarana (remembrance) removes evilMay Narayana who gives the condition of happiness for the sacrifice of

worship,May Vishnu and who gives liberation for supreme devotion to HimProtect us.

Footnotes