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Significance of Garuda

Garuda is a prominent mythical bird in Hindu mythology representing power, speed, and divine presence. It serves as the vehicle of Lord Vishnu and is depicted as a protector, often engaged in battles against serpents, illustrating its symbolism of strength. Garuda plays a significant role across various texts, including the Ramayana, where it showcases loyalty and devotion. Furthermore, it embodies themes of compassion and sacrifice, reinforcing its importance in spiritual lore and as a powerful emblem in cultural symbolism.1
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Synonyms: Eagle, Bird of prey, Deity, Divine bird, Vehicle of vishnu, Mythical bird

In Dutch: Garuda; In German: Garuda; In Finnish: Garuda; In Spanish: Garuda; In Swedish: Garuda; In Malay: Garuda; In French: Garuda

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Garuda'

Buddhism Books

Garuda in Buddhism symbolizes powerful, golden-winged birds that embody a duality as adversaries to the Nagas. They often appear in protective roles, illustrated through their speed and predatory nature, intertwined with significant figures like Vajrapani.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

From: The gods of northern Buddhism

(1) Fabulous golden-winged birds that are foes of the Nagas, representing a stark dichotomy in Buddhist mythology.[1] (2) Mythical birds in Buddhist mythology often depicted as enemies of the Nagas and are confronted by Vajrapani in protective roles.[2] (3) A mythical bird that is often at odds with the Nagas and is occasionally depicted in association with Vajrapani.[3]

From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra

(1) A mythical bird in Buddhist and Hindu mythology, referenced in the context of earth's trembling.[4]

From: Mahavastu (great story)

(1) A mythical bird in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, mentioned as an example of speed, representing the swift movement of the monster fish that wrecked the merchants' ship.[5]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

Significance in Theravada (major branch of Buddhism):
Theravada Books

From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6

(1) A mythical bird-like creature that has a predatory nature; in the story, he was chasing the Serpent but was ultimately swayed by reverence.[6] (2) A reference to a group of mythical beings, often depicted as powerful and protective creatures in ancient narratives.[7]

Theravada is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

Hindu concept of 'Garuda'

Hinduism Books

Garuda, in Hinduism, is a mythical bird symbolizing speed, strength, and divine authority. As the vehicle of Vishnu, he embodies vigilance, purity, and the power to vanquish negativity, particularly in the form of poisonous snakes.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) The mythical bird referenced in the analogy, known for its strength and ability to handle serpents.[8] (2) Garuda is a character that Kaliya savagely bites, representing strength and a fierce adversary in this context.[9] (3) the vehicle of Lord Krishna which takes the speaker on a ride[10] (4) The divine bird and vehicle of Lord Krishna, on which King Vimala and his wives traveled.[11] (5) A mythical bird in Hindu mythology, depicted here as attacking a snake, serving as a simile for Krishna's action.[12]

From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation

(1) The hefty bird that serves as the Lord's vehicle, symbolizing strength and divinity.[13] (2) The bird depicted on Lord Atinata's banner, symbolizing strength and divine presence.[14] (3) The mythical bird upon which the Lord and His Divine Consort travel, symbolizing swift divine intervention.[15] (4) The favorite mount of Tirumal, known as the embodiment of the Vedas.[16] (5) The divine bird associated with Lord Vishnu, which he rode to confront Banasura and assert his supremacy.[17]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) The being to whom people surrendered and prayed for Nimai鈥檚 release from the snake鈥檚 clutches.[18] (2) The fierce creature that instills fear in Kaliya, a poisonous snake, leading him to reside in Kaliya-daha.[19] (3) Garuda is the king of birds and the chastiser of snakes.[20] (4) One more individual from the list who began to cry.[21] (5) The divine bird and carrier of the Supreme Lord, symbolizing strength and speed.[22]

From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)

(1) Another carrier mentioned, highlighting that Shri Hanuman achieved a more exalted status than this mythological figure.[23] (2) Garuda, also known as Suparna, is a significant associate of the Lord who stands among His principal attendants.[24] (3) The eagle carrier of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Jagadishvara, as described in the text.[25] (4) The king of birds in Hindu mythology, often depicted as a divine eagle and is the vehicle of Lord Vishnu.[26]

From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu

(1) A mythical bird or mount that Krishna rode upon during His arrival.[27] (2) A mythological bird and a significant figure in the text, known for his strength and ability to react with anger.[28] (3) A prominent bird in mythology, which the peacock claims to have replaced in a certain context.[29]

From: Chaitanya Mangala

(1) The divine bird and vehicle of Lord Krishna, used to travel to assist Dhruva.[30]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (鈥榯en avatars of Vishnu鈥�).

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) A mythological bird known for its strength and speed, used metaphorically to describe Abhimanyu鈥檚 fierce movement during battle.[31] (2) A mythological bird that represents speed and valor, used to describe the steeds bearing Krishna and Arjuna.[32] (3) A metaphorical formation of the army named after the mythical bird Garuda, symbolizing strength and superiority.[33] (4) The illustrious son of Vinata who emerges from the eggs after five hundred years, known for being a serpent-eater.[34] (5) The emblem on Krishna's chariot, symbolizing speed and power.[35]

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) The conveyance of Vishnu, which was struck by Mahisha with his club.[36] (2) The vehicle of Lord Vishnu, who plays a key role in relieving the crises and burdens faced by others.[37] (3) Garuda is referred to as the carrier of Bhagavan Narayana, symbolizing strength and divine travel.[38] (4) The divine eagle and vehicle of Vishnu, symbolizing speed and spiritual elevation.[39] (5) The powerful son of Vinata who rescued his mother from the slavery imposed by Kadru.[40]

From: Harivamsha Purana

(1) Mythical birds invoked by Pradyumna in the battle to counteract Shamvara's serpentine illusions.[41] (2) The mythical bird vehicle of Vishnu, symbolizing his power and speed in traversing the universe.[42] (3) A divine bird and companion of Krishna, known for his speed and strength, tasked with aiding in the search for Aniruddha.[43] (4) The king of birds and vehicle of Janarddana, known for its speed and strength.[44] (5) The mythical bird and vehicle of Vishnu, symbolizing strength and speed.[45]

From: Vishnu Purana

(1) The mythical bird vehicle of Krishna, from which he alights upon arriving at Dvaraka.[46] (2) The divine bird associated with Krishna, representing his formidable nature and power.[47] (3) A symbolic figure often related to Vishnu, called upon to address the calamities afflicting the region.[48] (4) The divine bird that carries Krishna and Satyabhama during their journey to confront Naraka.[49] (5) The divine eagle mount of Krishna, who plays a significant role in transporting beings and engaging in conflicts.[50]

From: Garuda Purana

(1) A deity representative of the wind and a mythical bird, described as smoke-colored.[51] (2) A mythical bird who serves Vishnu, depicted as powerful and knowledgeable, tasked with conveying the teachings of the Garuda Purana.[52] (3) A mythical bird and vehicle of Vishnu, symbolizing power and speed.[53] (4) A mythical bird associated with the rite and considered a powerful figure for protection against poison.[54] (5) A divine figure symbolizing protection and potency against poisons, often meditated upon during incantations and rituals.[55]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) A divine incarnation depicted as a bird, who drives off the Rakshasa with the force of his wings.[56] (2) A revered mythological bird who occupies a notable aerial region, significant in Hindu mythology.[57] (3) A divine bird in Hindu mythology, considered one of the creatures capable of crossing the seas.[58] (4) A valiant mythical bird who aids Rama and Lakshmana by breaking their bonds and healing their wounds.[59]

From: Nilamata Purana

(1) A mythical bird and enemy of the Nagas, characterized by unparalleled strength and speed.[60]

From: Laghu-yoga-vasistha

(1) A celestial eagle often considered a symbol of strength and wisdom in spiritual texts, representing the power to transcend illusions.[61]

From: Gautami Mahatmya

(1) The divine vehicle of Vishnu, depicted as a bird and symbolizing speed and strength.[62]

From: Markandeya Purana

(1) A renowned bird, son of Arishtanemi, known for his power and befitting a lineage of mighty birds.[63]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India鈥檚 vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Kavya (poetry):
Kavya Books

From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)

(1) A mythological bird associated with Lohajangha's story, which plays a role in his journey to riches and power.[64] (2) The sun-god depicted as the enemy of Nagas and associated with themes of light and day, often involved in battles against serpentine beings.[65] (3) A powerful bird who becomes a central figure in the moral lessons around compassion, sacrifice, and the repercussions of one鈥檚 actions.[66] (4) The king of birds who was initially the threat to the snakes but eventually recognizes Jimutavahana's noble nature.[67]

Kavya refers to Sanskrit poetry, a popular ancient Indian tradition of literature. There have been many Sanskrit poets over the ages, hailing from ancient India and beyond. This topic includes mahakavya, or 鈥榚pic poetry鈥� and natya, or 鈥榙ramatic poetry鈥�.

Significance in Pancaratra (worship of N膩r膩ya峁嘺):
Pancaratra Books

From: Parama Samhita (English translation)

(1) A mythical bird and vehicle associated with the deity Vishnu, used for ceremonial purposes.[68] (2) A mythical bird or deity associated with Vishnu, often represented in temple architecture.[69]

Pancaratra represents a tradition of Hinduism where Narayana is revered and worshipped. Closeley related to Vaishnavism, the Pancaratra literature includes various Agamas and tantras incorporating many Vaishnava philosophies.

Significance in Natyashastra (theatrics and dramaturgy):
Natyashastra Books

From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)

(1) A gesture formed by Ardha-candra hands with palms askew, symbolizing the deity Garuda.[70]

From: Natyashastra (English)

(1) A mythological bird and deity, significant in Hindu beliefs, invoked for protection and strength.[71]

Natyashastra refers to both the ancient Indian tradition (shastra) of performing arts, (natya鈥攖heatrics, drama, dance, music), as well as the name of a Sanskrit work dealing with these subjects. It also teaches the rules for composing Dramatic plays (nataka), construction and performance of Theater, and Poetic works (kavya).

Significance in Yoga (school of philosophy):
Yoga Books

From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)

(1) The celestial bird and vehicle of Vishnu, symbolizing speed and strength.[72]

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as asanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

Significance in Vastushastra (architecture):
Vastushastra Books

From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)

(1) Included in the list of Meru varieties, often associated with speed and transportation in mythology.[73]

Vastushastra refers to the ancient Indian science (shastra) of architecture (vastu), dealing with topics such architecture, sculpture, town-building, fort building and various other constructions. Vastu also deals with the philosophy of the architectural relation with the cosmic universe.

Significance in Vyakarana (Sanskrit grammar):
Vyakarana Books

From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari

(1) The name of a bird used by Vishnu as his transport, which serves as a standard for comparison in the context of arraying elephants.[74]

Vyakarana refers to Sanskrit grammar and represents one of the six additional sciences (vedanga) to be studied along with the Vedas. Vyakarana concerns itself with the rules of Sanskrit grammar and linguistic analysis in order to establish the correct context of words and sentences.

Jain concept of 'Garuda'

Jainism Books

In Jainism, Garuda symbolizes support, power, and speed. It represents the mythical bird integral to narratives like Manikundalin's journey and the muni's ascent, also serving as a metaphor for the overwhelming force of Rama's arrows.

Significance in Jainism (general):

From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra

(1) A mythical bird that symbolically represents support and power during the battle.[75] (2) A mythical bird significant in Indian mythology, representing speed and divinity; used here to describe the muni's ascent.[76] (3) A figure known for speed, surpassed by Manasavega.[77] (4) A metaphorical comparison illustrating the immense number of arrows shot by Rama, evoking the image of a mighty bird.[78] (5) A mythological bird that symbolizes speed, used in the narrative to describe Manikundalin's journey.[79]

Jainism is an Indian religion of Dharma whose doctrine revolves around harmlessness (ahimsa) towards every living being. The two major branches (Digambara and Svetambara) of Jainism stimulate self-control (or, shramana, 鈥榮elf-reliance鈥�) and spiritual development through a path of peace for the soul to progess to the ultimate goal.

The concept of Garuda in local and regional sources

History Books

Garuda is a divine bird in Hindu mythology, symbolizing power and transport. It serves as Vishnu's mount, represents cultural strength, and appears in various contexts, including Gupta coinage and Indonesia's national emblem, highlighting its significance across cultures.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) In 'The Shadow' by 'Pu. Ti. Na.', Garuda is a symbol, as the poem compares a shadow's movements to the actions of a powerful figure, like Gandhi.[80] (2) A divine bird and significant cultural symbol in Hindu mythology, featuring prominently in Gupta coinage as an emblem of power.[81]

From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages

(1) It represents a mythical bird, the eagle of Vishnu, and the winged mount of the Hindu divinity Visnu, according to the provided text.[82] (2) The symbol associated with the Indonesian national emblem, representing strength and sovereignty.[83]

From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints

(1) The powerful king of birds and vehicle of Vishnu, known for freeing his mother from slavery.[84]

Significance in South Asia:
South Asia Books

From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3

(1) A mythical bird referenced as having picked up the Elephant's skin and is associated with transport in the story.[85]

Plural form: De Garuda.