Garuda Purana, an esteemed scripture of Hinduism and one of the 18 Mahapuranas, holds great significance for the Vaishnava community. Comprising 271 chapters and 18,000 verses, Garuda Purana provides a comprehensive account, narrated by Narayan himself, of a person's journey from birth to death and beyond.
Within the pages of Garuda Purana, one finds vivid descriptions of heaven and hell. The primary purpose of this sacred text is to inspire individuals to embrace the path of righteousness and engage in virtuous deeds. It asserts that those who adhere to the teachings of Garuda Purana lead successful lives and find a place at the divine feet of Shrihari Vishnu even after death.
Garuda Purana delineates the consequences of a person's actions, emphasizing that those who engage in benevolent deeds attain salvation in the afterlife. Conversely, those who commit wicked acts are consigned to hell and subjected to various torments. The text also highlights certain acts categorized as grave sins, leading to the soul's descent into hell and enduring immense suffering.
Five Deeds To Avoid
Garuda Purana strongly condemns the act of killing or causing harm to a fetus, newborn, or pregnant woman. Committing such a heinous act ensures an individual's journey to hell after death, where they endure agonizing torments.
Furthermore, those who insult, harass, or commit wrongdoings against women face distress in the afterlife and are subjected to severe punishment in hell.
The scripture also denounces individuals who harbour ill intentions towards friends or foreign women, engaging in abuse or misconduct. Such individuals are labelled as grave sinners and are subjected to severe punishment after death.
Moreover, those who mock temples, scriptures, and religious rituals face dire consequences. Their lives are marred by misfortunes, and even in the afterlife, they endure various hardships.
Lastly, those who persecute and mistreat the elderly, helpless, weak, and needy face divine displeasure. Regardless of the number of charitable acts or religious observances they perform, they are held accountable for their virtuous deeds after death.
Garuda Purana serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path to virtuous living. By adhering to its teachings, individuals can shape their lives in accordance with dharma (righteousness) and strive for spiritual growth. May the wisdom of Garuda Purana inspire all to tread the path of righteousness and lead a virtuous existence.