Garuda Purana- Jnana Yogi Version

The “Garuda Purana” is probably the most important, living Purana. It is used in sermons, last rites, death anniversary / Shraadha. In its original form (19,000 shlokas), it is a treatise that covers Ayurveda, creation theories and the afterlife. It contains graphic details of death and punishment. Thus the “Garuda Purana” is recommended for reading only to the evolved jnani in most Indian traditions. The layman is advised to read the “Shubha Dharma Garuda Purana”.

This book evolved out of my attempt to revive a lost sacred text called the “Shubha Dharma Garuda Purana”.

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

May the Acharyas, Garuda, Narayana and Yama bless you through this book.

I 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 on your Atma Guru (inner Guru) to guide you. Also remember that, you have a duty to avoid the papa of unwarranted ninda (criticism).

Every ancient text should be read and studied respectfully. Some negative interpretations are to be expected due to the passage of time. I have stuck to a more 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 these biases / influences away by relying on the interpretation from the Vedic period.

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

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

Background to this work

It is indeed rare for an Acharya to permit the study of the "Garuda Purana". It is considered the "Indian Book of the Dead". I have been blessed by my Acharya to study this text. The subject of the "Garuda Purana" is not very pleasant, but nevertheless very relevant, necessary.

This book evolved out of my work to revive a lost sacred text called the "Shubha Dharma Garuda Purana". The "Shubha Dharma Garuda Purana" is credited with helping India achieve 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 Garuda Purana.

I have .sacrificed rhyme / poetry focusing on the philosophy and the eternal message. 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.

**Contents and Sample Pages**