Difference between revisions of "Garuda"
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+ | '''[[Garuda]]''' is the [[king]] of birds. Its [[Name]] derives from the [[root]] Gri, to swallow: [[garuda]] devours the {{Wiki|snakes}}. He is represented with a [[human]] upper [[Body]], big [[Eyes]], beak, short blue horns, [[yellow]] [[Hair]] [[standing]] on end, bird's claws and wings. However, sometimes, mainly in [[Hindu]] {{Wiki|iconography}}, he is represented in [[human]] [[Form]] with wings. | ||
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+ | [[Garuda]] is a very big {{Wiki|bird}} and comes out of the egg fully grown. [[Garuda]] [[symbolizes]] the [[space element]] and the [[Power]] of the {{Wiki|sun}}, which can dry up the waters. Therefore he is the natural enemy of {{Wiki|snakes}} and he devours or controls them. He represents the [[Spiritual]] [[energy]] of which devours the [[delusions]] of [[jealousy]]. And [[hatred]], which are represented by the {{Wiki|snake}}. [[Garuda]] is | ||
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+ | also the [[openness]]: he can stretch out his wings and soar into [[space]]. He represents the great freedom of the [[mind]] which can open and is not uptied by confliction [[emotions]] the [[wise]] [[mind]] which reaches every where, like the rays of the {{Wiki|sun}}, and brings about the growth of | ||
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+ | [[Life]] and [[Wisdom]]. Specifically in [[Buddhism]] [[Garuda]] is related of the [[perfection]] of gibing [[Dana]] [[paramita]], just as the rays of the {{Wiki|sun}} give [[Life]] to the [[Earth]]. | ||
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+ | The [[myth]] of the great {{Wiki|bird}} devouring the {{Wiki|snake}} seems to have originated in {{Wiki|Mesopotamia}}. The {{Wiki|snake}} represents the {{Wiki|subconscious}} or hidden aspects of the [[mind]], those [[feelings]] and [[thoughts]] which crawl underneath the surface. [[Garuda]] can | ||
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+ | {{Wiki|perceive}} any tiny {{Wiki|snake}} and instantly fall upon in. Similarly, by practicing [[awareness]] of all our [[feelings]], [[thoughts]] and [[actions]] we can develop the [[Wisdom]] which can {{Wiki|perceive}} perfectly the workings of our [[mind]] and in that way we can achieve complete freedom to act utilizing out [[mind]] in the most beneficial way. | ||
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+ | In [[Hindu]] {{Wiki|Iconography}} [[Garuda]] is the [[vehicle]] of [[Vishnu]]. In [[Buddhism]], he is the [[vehicle]] of [[Amoghasiddhi]], The [[Buddha]] who [[embodies]] the all accomplishing [[Wisdom]]. He is also the [[vehicle]] of a from of Lokishvara Hariharihar [[vahana]]. [[garuda]] is also a | ||
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+ | [[Deity]] of his [[own]] who is supposed to cure snakebite, {{Wiki|epilepsy}} and {{Wiki|diseases}} [[caused]] by [[Nagas]]. An image of [[Garuda]] is found in the toranas, the semicircular tympanum above the [[temple]] doors. | ||
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+ | The {{Wiki|emerald}}, also called [[Garuda]] stone is considered a [[protection]] against [[poison]] and [[Garuda]] images appear in Jewellery as a [[protection]] against {{Wiki|snake}} bite. | ||
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+ | [[File:Garuda_021.JPG|thumb|250px|{{Wiki|Balinese}} wooden statue of Vishnu riding Garuda, {{Wiki|Purna Bhakti Pertiwi Museum}}, {{Wiki|Jakarta}}]] | ||
+ | The [[Garuda]] ([[Sanskrit]]: {{SanskritBig|[[गरुड]]}} [[garuḍa]], "{{Wiki|eagle}}") is a large [[mythical]] {{Wiki|bird}} or bird-like creature that appears in both [[Hindu]] and [[Buddhist]] [[mythology]]. | ||
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+ | [[Garuda]] is the [[Hindu]] [[Name]] for the [[constellation]] Aquila and the Brahminy kite and {{Wiki|Phoenix}} are considered to be the contemporary {{Wiki|representations}} of [[Garuda]]. {{Wiki|Indonesia}} adopts a more stylistic approach to the [[Garuda]]'s depiction as its national [[Symbol]], where it depicts a [[Javanese]] {{Wiki|eagle}} (being much larger than a kite. | ||
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+ | ==In [[Hinduism]]== | ||
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+ | In [[Hindu]] [[Religion]], [[Garuda]] is a [[Hindu]] [[divinity]], usually the mount ([[vahana]]) of the [[God]] [[Vishnu]]. [[Garuda]] is depicted as having the golden [[Body]] of a strong man with a white face, [[red]] wings, and an eagle's beak and with a {{Wiki|crown}} on his head. This {{Wiki|ancient}} [[Deity]] was said to be massive, large enough to block out the {{Wiki|sun}}. | ||
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+ | [[Garuda]] is known as the [[eternal]] sworn enemy of the [[Nāga]] [[serpent]] race and known for feeding exclusively on {{Wiki|snakes}}, such {{Wiki|behavior}} may have referred to the actual Short-toed {{Wiki|Eagle}} of [[India]]. The image of [[Garuda]] is often used as the charm or | ||
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+ | [[amulet]] to {{Wiki|protect}} the bearer from {{Wiki|snake}} attack and its [[poison]], since the [[king]] of birds is an implacable enemy and "devourer of [[serpent]]". Garudi [[Vidya]] is the [[Mantra]] against {{Wiki|snake}} [[poison]] to remove all kinds of [[Evil]]. | ||
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+ | His stature in [[Hindu]] [[Religion]] can be gauged by the fact that an {{Wiki|independent}} [[Upanishad]], the Garudopanishad, and a {{Wiki|Purana}}, the {{Wiki|Garuda Purana}}, is devoted to him. Various names have been attributed to [[Garuda]] - Chirada, Gaganeshvara, Kamayusha, Kashyapi, Khageshvara, Nagantaka, Sitanana, Sudhahara, [[Suparna]], Tarkshya, Vainateya, Vishnuratha and others. The [[Vedas]] provide the earliest reference of | ||
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+ | [[Garuda]], though by the [[Name]] of Śyena, where this mighty {{Wiki|bird}} is said to have brought [[nectar]] to [[Earth]] from [[Heaven]]. The {{Wiki|Puranas}}, which came into [[existence]] much later, mention [[Garuda]] as doing the same thing, which indicates that Śyena ([[Sanskrit]] for | ||
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+ | {{Wiki|Eagle}}) and [[Garuda]] are the same. One of the faces of [[Śrī]] Pañcamukha {{Wiki|Hanuman}} is [[Mahavira]] [[Garuda]]. This face points towards the [[west]]. {{Wiki|Worship}} of [[Garuda]] is believed to remove the effects of [[poisons]] from one's [[Body]]. In {{Wiki|Tamil}} [[Vaishnavism]] [[Garuda]] and {{Wiki|Hanuman}} are known as "Periya Thiruvadi" and "Siriya Thiruvadi" respectively. | ||
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+ | In the {{Wiki|Bhagavad-Gita}} (Ch.10, Verse 30), in the middle of the battlefield "[[Wikipedia:Kurukshetra War|Kurukshetra]]", {{Wiki|Krishna}} explaining his {{Wiki|omnipresence}}, says - " as son of [[Vinata]], I am in the [[Form]] of [[Garuda]], the [[king]] of the {{Wiki|bird}} {{Wiki|community}} ([[Garuda]])" indicating the importance of [[Garuda]]. | ||
+ | [[File:Garuda045.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
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+ | [[Garuda]] wears the [[serpent]] [[Adisesha]] on his left wrist and the serpant Gulika on his Right wrist. The [[serpent]] [[Vasuki]] [[forms]] his [[sacred]] thread. The {{Wiki|cobra}} [[Takshaka]] [[forms]] his belt on his hip. The {{Wiki|snake}} Karkotaka is worn as his [[necklace]]. The {{Wiki|snakes}} [[Padma]] and [[Mahapadma]] are his {{Wiki|ear}} rings. The {{Wiki|snake}} Shankachuda adorns his [[divine]] [[Hair]]. He is flanked by | ||
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+ | his two wives ‘[[Rudra]]’ and ‘Sukeerthi’ or (Sukirthi). These are all invoked in [[Vedanta]] Desika's [[Garuda]] Panchashath and [[Garuda]] [[Dandaka]] compositions. [[Garuda]] flanked with his [[consorts]] '[[Rudra]]' and 'Sukirthi' can be seen [[worshipped]] in an {{Wiki|ancient}} Soumya Keshava [[temple]] in Bindiganavile (or [[Mayura]] puri in [[Sanskrit]] ) in {{Wiki|Karnataka}} [[state]] of [[India]]. | ||
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+ | [[Garuda]] [[Vyuha]] is worshiped in [[Tantra]] for Abhichara and to {{Wiki|protect}} against Abhichara. However, the [[Interesting]] thing is that [[Garuda]] is the Sankarshna [[Form]] of the [[Lord]] who during creation primarily possesses the [[Knowledge]] aspect of the [[Lord]] (among [[Vasudeva]], [[Sankarshana]], {{Wiki|Pradyumna}} and [[Aniruddha]] [[forms]]). The important point is that [[Garuda]] represents the five [[vayus]] | ||
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+ | within us : [[prana]], [[vyana]], [[Udana]], [[samana]], {{Wiki|brahmana}} through his five [[forms]] [[Satya]], [[Suparna]], [[Garuda]], Tarkshya, Vihageshwara. These five [[vayus]] through [[yoga]] can be controlled through [[Pranayama]] which can lead to [[Kundalini]] [[Awakening]] leading to higher levels of [[Consciousness]]. | ||
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+ | [[Garuda]] plays an important role in {{Wiki|Krishna}} [[Avatar]] in which {{Wiki|Krishna}} and Satyabhama ride on [[Garuda]] to kill [[Narakasura]]. On another [[occasion]], [[Lord]] [[Hari]] rides on [[Garuda]] to save the {{Wiki|devotee}} [[Elephant]] Gajendra. It is also said that [[Garuda]]'s wings when flying will [[Chant]] the [[Vedas]]. | ||
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+ | ==In the [[Mahabharata]]== | ||
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+ | ===[[Birth]] and [[deeds]]=== | ||
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+ | The story of [[Garuda]]'s [[birth]] and [[deeds]] is told in the first [[book]] of the great {{Wiki|epic}} {{Wiki|Mahabharata}}. According to the {{Wiki|epic}}, when [[Garuda]] first burst forth from his egg, he appeared as a [[raging]] inferno {{Wiki|equal}} to the [[cosmic]] conflagration that consumes the [[World]] at the end of every age. Frightened, the [[Gods]] begged him for [[mercy]]. [[Garuda]], hearing their plea, reduced himself in size and [[energy]]. | ||
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+ | [[File:Garuda457.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
+ | [[Garuda]]'s father was the creator-[[rishi]] [[Kasyapa]]. He had two wives, [[Vinata]] and {{Wiki|Kadru}}, who were daughters of Prajapathi [[Daksha]]. [[Kasyapa]], on the pleadings of his wives, granted them their wishes; [[Vinita]] wished for two sons and {{Wiki|Kadru}} wished for thousand | ||
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+ | {{Wiki|snakes}} as her sons. Both laid eggs, while the thousand eggs of {{Wiki|Kadru}} hatched early (after steaming the eggs to hatch) into {{Wiki|snakes}}, the hatching of two eggs of [[Vinata]] did not take place for a long [[Time]]. Impatient, [[Vinata]] broke open one egg, which was half | ||
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+ | formed with the upper half only as a [[human]] and was thus deformed. Her half formed son cursed her that she would be slave for her sister (she was her rival) for a long [[Time]] by which [[Time]] her second son would be born who would save her from his curse; her first son who flew away and came to | ||
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+ | prominence as [[Aruna]], the [[red]] spectacle seen as the {{Wiki|Sun}} rises in the morning, and as also charioteer of the {{Wiki|Sun}}. The second egg hatched after a long [[Time]] during which period [[Vinata]] was the servant of her sister as she had lost a bet with her. When the second egg hatched, a fully grown, shining and of mighty sized {{Wiki|bird}} [[Form]] emerged as [[Garuda]], the [[king]] of birds. [[Garuda]] was thus born. | ||
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+ | One day, [[Vinata]] entered into and lost a [[foolish]] bet, as a result of which she became enslaved to her sister. Resolving to [[release]] his mother from this [[state]] of bondage, [[Garuda]] approached the serpents and asked them what it would take to purchase her freedom. Their reply was that | ||
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+ | [[Garuda]] would have to bring them the elixir of [[immortality]], also called [[amrita]]. It was a tall order. The [[amrita]] at that [[Time]] found itself in the possession of the [[Gods]], who guarded it jealously, since it was the source of their [[immortality]]. They had ringed the elixir with a | ||
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+ | massive [[Fire]] that covered the sky. They had blocked the way to the elixir with a fierce mechanical contraption of sharp rotating blades. And finally, they had stationed two gigantic {{Wiki|poisonous}} {{Wiki|snakes}} next to the elixir as deadly guardians. | ||
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+ | Undaunted, [[Garuda]] hastened toward the abode of the [[Gods]] intent on robbing them of their [[treasure]]. [[Knowing]] of his design, the [[Gods]] met him in full battle-array. [[Garuda]], however, defeated the entire host and scattered them in all [[Directions]]. Taking the [[water]] of many [[Rivers]] into his {{Wiki|mouth}}, he [[extinguished]] the [[protective]] [[Fire]] the [[Gods]] had thrown up. Reducing his size, he crept {{Wiki|past}} the | ||
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+ | rotating blades of their murderous machine. And finally, he mangled the two gigantic serpents they had posted as guards. Taking the elixir into his {{Wiki|mouth}} without {{Wiki|swallowing}} it, he launched again into the [[air]] and headed toward the eagerly waiting serpents. En route, he encountered [[Vishnu]]. Rather than fight, the two exchanged promises. [[Vishnu]] promised [[Garuda]] the [[gift]] of [[immortality]] even without | ||
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+ | drinking from the elixir, and [[Garuda]] promised to become [[Vishnu]]'s mount. Flying onward, he met [[Indra]] the [[God]] of the sky. Another exchange of promises occurred. [[Garuda]] promised that once he had delivered the elixir, thus fulfilling the request of the serpents, he would make it possible for [[Indra]] to regain possession of the elixir and to take it back to the [[Gods]]. [[Indra]] in turn promised [[Garuda]] the serpents as [[food]]. | ||
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+ | At long last, [[Garuda]] alighted in front of the waiting serpents. Placing the elixir on the grass, and thereby liberating his mother [[Vinata]] from her servitude, he urged the serpents to perform their [[religious]] ablutions before consuming it. As they hurried off to do so, [[Indra]] swooped in to | ||
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+ | make off with the elixir. The serpents came back from their ablutions and saw the elixir gone but with small droplets of it on the grass. They tried to lick the droplets and thereby split their tongues in two. From then onwards, serpents have split tongues and shed their {{Wiki|skin}} as a kind of [[immortality]]. | ||
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+ | [[File:Garudakar.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
+ | From that day onward, [[Garuda]] was the ally of the [[Gods]] and the trusty mount of [[Vishnu]], as well as the implacable enemy of {{Wiki|snakes}}, upon whom he preyed at every opportunity. | ||
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+ | ===Descendents=== | ||
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+ | According to the {{Wiki|Mahabharata}}, [[Garuda]] had six sons from whom were descended the race of birds. The members of this race were of great might and without [[compassion]], subsisting as they did on their relatives the {{Wiki|snakes}}. [[Vishnu]] was their [[protector]]. | ||
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+ | ===As a [[Symbol]]=== | ||
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+ | Throughout the {{Wiki|Mahabharata}}, [[Garuda]] is invoked as a [[Symbol]] of impetuous [[violent]] force, of {{Wiki|speed}}, and of {{Wiki|martial}} prowess. Powerful {{Wiki|warriors}} advancing rapidly on doomed foes are likened to [[Garuda]] swooping down on a [[serpent]]. Defeated | ||
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+ | {{Wiki|warriors}} are like {{Wiki|snakes}} beaten down by [[Garuda]]. The field {{Wiki|marshal}} [[Drona]] uses a {{Wiki|military}} formation named after [[Garuda]]. {{Wiki|Krishna}} even carries the image of [[Garuda]] on his [[banner]]. | ||
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+ | ==In [[Buddhism]]== | ||
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+ | In [[Buddhist]] [[mythology]], the [[Garuda]] ([[Pāli]]: garuḷā) are enormous predatory birds with [[intelligence]] and {{Wiki|social}} [[organization]]. Another [[Name]] for the [[Garuda]] is suparṇa ([[Pāli]]: supaṇṇa), meaning "well-winged, having good wings". Like the [[Nāga]], they combine the {{Wiki|characteristics}} of [[Animals]] and [[divine]] [[beings]], and may be considered to be among the lowest [[Devas]]. | ||
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+ | The exact size of the [[Garuda]] is uncertain, but its wings are said to have a span of many {{Wiki|miles}}. This may be a {{Wiki|poetic}} {{Wiki|exaggeration}}, but it is also said that when a [[Garuda]]'s wings flap, they create hurricane-like [[winds]] that darken the sky and blow down houses. A [[human being]] is so small compared to a [[Garuda]] that a man can hide in the plumage of one without being noticed (Kākātī [[Jātaka]], J.327). They are also capable of tearing up entire banyan [[Trees]] from their [[roots]] and carrying them off. | ||
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+ | [[Garudas]] are the great golden-winged Peng birds. They also have the ability to grow large or small, and to appear and disappear at will. Their wingspan is 330 [[yojanas]] (one [[yojana]] being 40 {{Wiki|miles}} long). With one flap of its wings, a Peng {{Wiki|bird}} dries up the waters of the sea so that it can gobble up all the exposed [[Dragons]]. With another flap of its wings, it can level the [[mountains]] by moving them into the ocean. | ||
+ | [[File:Lord_Garuda.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
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+ | There were also the four garuda-kings : Great-[[Power]]-[[Virtue]] [[Garuda]]-[[King]], Great-[[Body]] [[Garuda]]-[[King]], Great-Fulfillment [[Garuda]]-[[King]], and Free-At-Will [[Garuda]]-[[King]], each accompanied by hundreds of thousands of attendants. | ||
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+ | The [[Garudas]] have [[kings]] and cities, and at least some of them have the [[magical]] [[Power]] of changing into [[human]] [[Form]] when they wish to have dealings with [[people]]. On some occasions [[Garuda]] [[kings]] have had romances with [[human]] women in this [[Form]]. Their {{Wiki|dwellings}} are in groves of the [[simbalī]], or silk-cotton [[Tree]]. | ||
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+ | The [[Garuda]] are enemies to the [[Nāga]], a race of {{Wiki|intelligent}} [[serpent]]- or dragon-like [[beings]], whom they hunt. The [[Garudas]] at one [[Time]] caught the [[nāgas]] by seizing them by their heads; but the [[nāgas]] learned that by {{Wiki|swallowing}} large stones, they could make themselves too heavy to be carried by the [[Garudas]], wearing them out and {{Wiki|killing}} them from exhaustion. This secret was divulged to one of the | ||
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+ | [[Garudas]] by the [[Ascetic]] Karambiya, who [[taught]] him how to seize a [[Nāga]] by the tail and force him to vomit up his stone ([[Pandara]] [[Jātaka]], J.518). | ||
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+ | The [[Garudas]] were among the [[beings]] appointed by [[Śakra]] to guard Mount [[Sumeru]] and the [[Trāyastriṃśa]] [[Heaven]] from the attacks of the [[Asuras]]. | ||
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+ | In the Mahasamyatta [[Sutta]], The [[Buddha]] is shown making {{Wiki|temporary}} [[Peace]] between the [[Nagas]] and the [[Garudas]]. | ||
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+ | The [[Thai]] rendering of Krut ([[Garuda]]) as [[Vishnu]] [[vehicle]] and [[Garuda]]'s quest for elixir was based on [[Indian]] legend of [[Garuda]]. It was told that [[Garuda]] overcame many [[heavenly]] [[beings]] in order to gain the [[ambrosia]] ([[amrita]]) elixir. No one was able to get the better | ||
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+ | of him, not even Narai ([[Vishnu]]). At last, a truce was called and an agreement was made to settle the rancor and smooth all the ruffled feathers. It was agreed that when Narai is in his [[heavenly]] palace, [[Garuda]] will be positioned in a {{Wiki|superior}} {{Wiki|status}}, atop the pillar above Narai's residence. However, whenever Narai wants to travel anywhere, [[Garuda]] must serve as his transport. | ||
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+ | The [[Sanskrit]] [[word]] [[Garuda]] has been borrowed and modified in the [[languages]] of several countries. In [[Burmese]], [[Garudas]] are called galone (ဂဠုန်). In [[Burmese]] [[Astrology]], the [[vehicle]] of the [[Sunday]] {{Wiki|planet}} is the galone. In the Kapampangan [[Language]] of the | ||
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+ | {{Wiki|Philippines}}, the native [[word]] for {{Wiki|eagle}} is galura. In [[Japanese]] a [[Garuda]] is called [[karura]] (however, the [[Form]] [[Garuda]] ガルーダ is used in recent [[Japanese]] {{Wiki|fiction}} - see below). | ||
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+ | For the {{Wiki|Mongols}}, the [[Garuda]] is called {{Wiki|Khan}} [[Garuda]] or Khangarid ({{Wiki|Mongolian}}: Хангарьд). Before and after each round of {{Wiki|Mongolian}} wrestling, wrestlers perform the [[Garuda]] [[Ritual]], a stylised imitation of the Khangarid and a {{Wiki|hawk}}. | ||
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+ | In the {{Wiki|Qing Dynasty}} {{Wiki|fiction}} The Story of [[Yue Fei]] (1684), [[Garuda]] sits at the head of The [[Buddha]]'s [[throne]]. But when a [[celestial]] bat ([[an embodiment]] of the [[Aquarius]] [[constellation]]) flatulates during The [[Buddha]]’s expounding of the [[Lotus Sutra]], [[Garuda]] kills her and is exiled from [[paradise]]. He is later [[reborn]] as {{Wiki|Song Dynasty}} General [[Yue Fei]]. The bat is [[reborn]] as Lady | ||
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+ | [[Wang]], wife of the traitor Prime [[Minister]] Qin [[Hui]], and is instrumental in formulating the "Eastern Window" plot that leads to Yue's eventual {{Wiki|political}} execution. It is [[Interesting]] to note The Story of [[Yue Fei]] plays on the legendary [[animosity]] between [[Garuda]] and the [[Nagas]] when the [[celestial]] bird-born [[Yue Fei]] defeats a [[magic]] [[serpent]] who transforms into the unearthly {{Wiki|spear}} he uses | ||
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+ | throughout his {{Wiki|military}} career. {{Wiki|Literary}} critic C.T. [[Hsia]] explains the [[reason]] why [[Qian]] Cai, the [[book's]] author, linked Yue with [[Garuda]] is because of the homology in their {{Wiki|Chinese}} names. Yue Fei's style [[Name]] is Pengju (鵬舉). A Peng (鵬) is a giant | ||
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+ | [[mythological]] {{Wiki|bird}} likened to the Middle Eastern Roc. [[Garuda]]'s {{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Name]] is Great Peng, the Golden-Winged [[Illumination]] [[King]] (大鵬金翅明王). | ||
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+ | ==As a {{Wiki|cultural}} and national [[Symbol]]== | ||
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+ | [[File:Garuda985.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
+ | In [[India]], {{Wiki|Indonesia}} and the rest of {{Wiki|Southeast Asia}} the {{Wiki|eagle}} [[symbolism]] is represented by [[Garuda]], a large [[mythical]] {{Wiki|bird}} with eagle-like features that appears in both [[Hindu]] and [[Buddhist]] [[mythology]] as the [[vahana]] ([[vehicle]]) of the | ||
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+ | [[God]] [[Vishnu]]. [[Garuda]] became the national {{Wiki|emblem}} of [[Thailand]] and {{Wiki|Indonesia}}; [[Thailand]]'s [[Garuda]] is rendered in a more [[traditional]] {{Wiki|anthropomorphic}} [[mythical]] style, while that of {{Wiki|Indonesia}} is rendered in heraldic style with traits similar to the {{Wiki|real}} {{Wiki|Javan Hawk-eagle}}. | ||
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+ | ===[[India]]=== | ||
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+ | [[India]] uses [[Garuda]] as {{Wiki|military}} [[Symbols]]: | ||
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+ | * [[Garud]] Commando Force is a Special Forces unit of the [[Indian]] [[Air]] Force, specializing in operations deep behind enemy lines. | ||
+ | * The Brigade of the Guards of the [[Indian]] {{Wiki|Army}} uses the [[Garud]] as their [[Symbol]]. | ||
+ | * The {{Wiki|elite}} bodyguards of the {{Wiki|medieval}} Hoysala [[kings]] in {{Wiki|Karnataka}}, [[India]], were called [[Garudas]], because they served the [[king]] in the way that [[Garuda]] served [[Vishnu]]. | ||
+ | * In both {{Wiki|Kerala}} and {{Wiki|Andhra pradesh}},its [[state]] road transport are using [[Garuda]] as the [[Name]] for Volvo buses. | ||
+ | * [[Garuda]] rock A Rocky cliff in [[Tirumala]] hills in {{Wiki|Andhra pradesh}} | ||
+ | * 13th century Aragalur chief Magadesan's insignia was [[Rishabha]] the [[sacred]] [[Bull]] and the [[Garuda]]. | ||
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+ | ==={{Wiki|Indonesia}}=== | ||
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+ | {{Wiki|Indonesia}} uses the [[Garuda]], [[Garuda]] [[Pancasila]] as its national [[Symbol]], it is somewhat intertwined with the {{Wiki|concept}} of the {{Wiki|phoenix}}. | ||
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+ | * The [[Garuda]] [[Pancasila]] is coloured or gilt {{Wiki|gold}}, [[symbolizes]] the greatness of the {{Wiki|nation}} and is a [[representation]] of the elang Jawa or {{Wiki|Javan Hawk-eagle}} {{Wiki|Nisaetus bartelsi}}. The black {{Wiki|color}} represents [[nature]]. There are 17 feathers on each wing, 8 on the lower tail, 19 on the upper tail and 45 on the neck, which represent the date {{Wiki|Indonesia}} proclaimed its {{Wiki|independence}}: 17 August 1945. The shield it carries with the {{Wiki|Indonesian}} [[Panca]] [[Sila]] heraldry [[symbolizes]] [[Self]]-defense and [[protection]] in struggle. | ||
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+ | |||
+ | * The {{Wiki|Indonesian}} national airline is [[Garuda]] {{Wiki|Indonesia}}. | ||
+ | * {{Wiki|Indonesian Armed Forces}} United Nations peacekeeping missions is known as Pasukan [[Garuda]] or {{Wiki|Garuda Contingent}} | ||
+ | * {{Wiki|Airlangga University}}, one of the oldest and leading {{Wiki|university}} in {{Wiki|Indonesia}} uses [[Garuda]] on its {{Wiki|emblem}}. The {{Wiki|emblem}}, containing a [[Garuda]] in a blue and [[yellow]] circle, is called "Garudamukha", and depicts [[Garuda]] as the bearer of [[Knowledge]], carrying a jug of [[Amrita]], the [[water]] of {{Wiki|eternity}}, [[symbolizing]] [[eternal]] [[Knowledge]]. | ||
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+ | * In [[Bali]] and {{Wiki|Java}} [[Garuda]] has become a {{Wiki|cultural}} [[Symbol]], the wooden statue and mask of [[Garuda]] is a popular artworks and souvenirs. | ||
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+ | * In [[Bali]], we can find the tallest [[Garuda]] statue of 18 metres tall made from tons of {{Wiki|copper}} and brass. The statue is located in [[Garuda]] Wisnu Kencana complex. | ||
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+ | |||
+ | * [[Garuda]] has identified as {{Wiki|Indonesian}} national football team in international games, namely "The [[Garuda]] Team". | ||
+ | * The stylized brush stroke that resemble [[Garuda]] is appear in the logo of 2011 [[Southeast]] {{Wiki|Asian}} Games, held in Palembang and {{Wiki|Jakarta}}, {{Wiki|Indonesia}}. | ||
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+ | * The stylized curves that took [[Form]] of [[Garuda]] [[Pancasila]] is appear in the logo of Wonderful {{Wiki|Indonesia}} tourism campaign. | ||
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+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ===[[Thailand]]=== | ||
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+ | |||
+ | [[Thailand]] uses the [[Garuda]] ([[Thai]]: ครุฑ, khrut) as its national [[Symbol]]. | ||
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+ | * One [[Form]] of the [[Garuda]] used in [[Thailand]] as a sign of the {{Wiki|royal}} [[family]] is called Khrut Pha, meaning "[[Garuda]], the [[vehicle]] (of [[Vishnu]])." | ||
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+ | |||
+ | * The statue and images of [[Garuda]] adorned many [[Buddhist]] [[temples]] in [[Thailand]], it also has become the {{Wiki|cultural}} [[Symbol]] of [[Thailand]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ===[[Mongolia]]=== | ||
+ | |||
+ | * The [[Garuda]], known as Khangarid, is the [[Symbol]] of the {{Wiki|capital}} city of [[Mongolia]], {{Wiki|Ulan Bator}}. According to popular {{Wiki|Mongolian}} [[belief]], Khangarid is the mountain [[Spirit]] of the [[Bogd Khan]] Uul range who became a follower of [[Buddhist]] [[Faith]]. Today he is considered the guardian of that mountain range and a [[Symbol]] of [[courage]] and [[honesty]]. | ||
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+ | |||
+ | * The {{Wiki|bird}} also gives its [[Name]] to Hangard Aviation | ||
+ | * Khangarid (Хангарьд), a football (soccer) team in the [[Mongolia]] Premier League also named after [[Garuda]]. | ||
+ | * [[Garuda]] Ord (Гаруда Орд), a private construction and trading company based in [[Ulaanbaatar]], also named after [[Garuda]]. | ||
+ | * [[State]] [[Garuda]] (Улсын Гарьд) is a title given to the debut runner up in wrestling tournament during {{Wiki|Mongolian}} National {{Wiki|Festival}} Naadam. | ||
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+ | [[Image:Garuda_cal.jpg|thumb|325px|'''Garudas''' are usually represented with a snake in their beak and hands, symbolizing the protection from ophidians and the subjugation of nagas]] | ||
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+ | '''[[Garuda]]''' (Skt. [[garuḍa]]; Tib. & [[Wyl.]] ''[[khyung]]'') – a [[mythical]] bird-like creature [[symbolizing]] various [[elements]] of the [[Buddhist path]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ===Overview=== | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | The [[garuda]] [[symbol]] can have the following meanings: | ||
+ | * A [[mythical]] creature | ||
+ | * One of the [[four dignities]] associated with the [[windhorse]] | ||
+ | * A [[deity]] of [[protection]] | ||
+ | * Our [[primordial nature]] | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ===A [[Mythical]] Creature=== | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | On the outer level, the [[garuda]] is a [[mythical]] {{Wiki|semi-divine}} bird-like creature that is the enemy of the [[naga]]s. It is represented in both [[Hindu]] and [[Buddhist traditions]] (especially in [[Tibetan]], [[Cham]], {{Wiki|Khmer}} and Javan [[art]]). In the [[Tibetan]] [[Vajrayana]] [[tradition]], the [[garuda]] was associated with the ''[[khyung]]'', which are important [[deities]] of the [[Bön]] {{Wiki|pantheon}}, and practised during [[healing]] [[rituals]] in order to counter certain [[illnesses]] provoked by [[nagas]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ===One of the [[Four Dignities]]=== | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | The [[garuda]] is also one of the [[four dignities]] associated with the [[windhorse]]. In this context, the [[garuda]] represents the [[fire element]], and it is said to to [[symbolize]] freedom from [[Wikipedia:Hope|hopes]] and {{Wiki|fears}}. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ===[[Deity]] of [[Protection]]=== | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | [[Garuda]] is also an important [[deity]] of [[protection]]. For example: | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | * It is one of the [[Three Deities of the Great Master Vajrapani]] | ||
+ | * It is depicted above [[Vajrakilaya]] in [[Vajrakilaya]] [[thangka]]s | ||
+ | * The [[practice]] of [[Takhyung Barwa]] combines the practices of [[Hayagriva]], [[Guru Drakpo]], and [[Garuda]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ===Our [[Primordial Nature]] === | ||
+ | |||
+ | In the [[Dzogchen]] teachings, the [[garuda]] represents our [[primordial nature]]. ''[[The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying]]'' says: | ||
+ | :The [[Dzogchen]] [[Tantra]]s, the {{Wiki|ancient}} teachings from which the [[bardo]] instructions come, speak of a [[mythical]] bird, the ''[[garuda]]'', which is born fully grown. This image [[symbolizes]] our [[primordial nature]], which is already completely {{Wiki|perfect}}. The | ||
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+ | [[garuda]] chick has all its wing feathers fully developed inside the egg, but it cannot fly before it hatches. Only at the [[moment]] when the shell cracks open can it burst out and soar into the sky. Similarly, the [[masters]] tell us, the qualities of [[buddhahood]] are [[veiled]] by the [[body]], and as soon as the [[body]] is discarded, they will be radiantly displayed. <ref> ''[[The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying]]'', page 109. </ref> | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | ===Further Reading=== | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | {{Nolinking|*Robert Beer, ''The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols'' (Boston: Shambhala, 2003), p.74-77}} | ||
+ | |||
+ | {{reflist}} | ||
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+ | |||
+ | [[File:GarudaThail.jpg|thumb|250px|]] | ||
+ | [[garuḍa]]. (P. [[garuḍa]]/[[garuḷa]]; T. [[khyung]]/[[mkha’ lding]]; C. [[jialouluo]]; J. [[karura]]; K. [[karura]] [[迦樓羅]]). In [[Sanskrit]] and [[Pāli]], [[mythical]] “golden-winged bird,” one of the eight classes of [[nonhuman beings]] ([[Aṣṭasenā]]) who are often in [[attendance]] during [[Śākyamuni]]’s [[sermons]]. | ||
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+ | In [[traditional]] {{Wiki|Indian mythology}}, the [[garuḍa]] was a golden-winged bird who was the [[deification]] of the sun’s [[brilliance]]; thus, like the [[phoenix]] in {{Wiki|Western}} [[mythology]], it served as a [[symbol]] of [[fire]] or flame. Garu ḍas served as the mount of [[Viṣṇu]] and were the {{Wiki|mortal}} enemies of [[Nāgas]] and {{Wiki|snakes}}. | ||
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+ | The [[garuḍa]] was said to be fantastic in size, with a massive wingspan (some texts say as wide as 330 [[Yojanas]]), and carried either a [[wishfulfilling gem]] ([[Cintāmaṇi]]) or a talisman around its neck. | ||
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+ | Its wings were said to be adorned with marvelous [[gems]], and it had a huge gullet that would allow it slowly to digest enormous amounts of [[food]]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | [[Garuḍas]] are sometimes portrayed in [[Buddhist art]] as having the head and wings of an {{Wiki|eagle}} and the [[body]] of a man. [[Jātaka]] stories describe [[garuḍas]] as giant birds, massive in both size and strength, which are capable of splitting the ocean by flapping their wings, creating an enormous breeze known as the [[garuḍa]] [[wind]]. | ||
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+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | The [[Saṃyuttanikāya]] mentions that [[garuḍas]] roost in the {{Wiki|forest}} of silk-cotton [[trees]], and their nests are in [[danger]] of being crushed by [[Sakka’s]] (S. [[Śakra]]; [[Indra]]) [[chariot]] as it speeds through the {{Wiki|forest}}. | ||
+ | |||
+ | [[Garuḍas]] eat only flesh and are the enemies of [[nāgas]], which are their main [[food]]. In the [[jātakas]], [[garuḍas]] are said to live on the [[nāga]] [[island]] of Seruma (also called, simply, [[Nāgadīpa]]). | ||
+ | |||
+ | With their [[garuḍa]] [[wind]], they can lift into the [[air]] [[nāgas]] that are a thousand fathoms long, uprooting the banyan [[trees]] around which the {{Wiki|snakes}} wrap themselves. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | Besides possessing impressive strength, [[garuḍas]] are also described in the [[jātakas]] as having [[supernatural powers]], such as in the [[Sussondī Jātaka]], where [[garuḍas]] use their special [[powers]] to plunge the whole city into {{Wiki|darkness}} in order to carry off [[Queen]] [[Sussondī]]. [[Garuḍas]] were formerly considered to be [[wrathful]] creatures but, after having been converted by the [[Buddha]], they now {{Wiki|protect}} his teachings. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | In both {{Wiki|mainstream}} and [[Mahāyāna]] materials, [[garuḍas]] are said to pay homage to the [[Buddha]] as one of a group of eight [[mythical]] classes of [[nonhuman beings]] ([[aṣṭasenā]]): | ||
+ | |||
+ | [[divinities]] ([[Deva]]), [[nāgas]], {{Wiki|demons}} ([[Yakṣa]]), [[celestial musicians]] ([[Gandharva]]), [[demigods]] ([[Asura]]), half-human half-horse (or half-bird) [[celestial musicians]] ([[Kiṃnara]]), and {{Wiki|snake}} [[spirits]] ([[Mahorāga]]). | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | In [[Buddhist tantra]] [[garuḍas]] are a [[Dharmapāla]] and appear in the [[Parivāra]] (retinue) of various [[tantric deities]], as both companion and mount. | ||
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+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | In [[tantric Buddhism]] there [[exists]] a group known as the [[pañcagaruḍa]] ([[khyung rigs lnga]]): the [[garuḍas]] of the [[Buddha]], [[karma]], [[ratna]], [[vajra]], and [[padma]] families. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | |||
+ | {{PrincetonDict}} | ||
+ | |||
+ | {{R}} | ||
[[Category:Buddhist Symbols]] | [[Category:Buddhist Symbols]] | ||
+ | [[Category:Garuda]] |
Latest revision as of 15:52, 5 January 2024
Garuda is the king of birds. Its Name derives from the root Gri, to swallow: garuda devours the snakes. He is represented with a human upper Body, big Eyes, beak, short blue horns, yellow Hair standing on end, bird's claws and wings. However, sometimes, mainly in Hindu iconography, he is represented in human Form with wings.
Garuda is a very big bird and comes out of the egg fully grown. Garuda symbolizes the space element and the Power of the sun, which can dry up the waters. Therefore he is the natural enemy of snakes and he devours or controls them. He represents the Spiritual energy of which devours the delusions of jealousy. And hatred, which are represented by the snake. Garuda is
also the openness: he can stretch out his wings and soar into space. He represents the great freedom of the mind which can open and is not uptied by confliction emotions the wise mind which reaches every where, like the rays of the sun, and brings about the growth of
Life and Wisdom. Specifically in Buddhism Garuda is related of the perfection of gibing Dana paramita, just as the rays of the sun give Life to the Earth.
The myth of the great bird devouring the snake seems to have originated in Mesopotamia. The snake represents the subconscious or hidden aspects of the mind, those feelings and thoughts which crawl underneath the surface. Garuda can
perceive any tiny snake and instantly fall upon in. Similarly, by practicing awareness of all our feelings, thoughts and actions we can develop the Wisdom which can perceive perfectly the workings of our mind and in that way we can achieve complete freedom to act utilizing out mind in the most beneficial way.
In Hindu Iconography Garuda is the vehicle of Vishnu. In Buddhism, he is the vehicle of Amoghasiddhi, The Buddha who embodies the all accomplishing Wisdom. He is also the vehicle of a from of Lokishvara Hariharihar vahana. garuda is also a
Deity of his own who is supposed to cure snakebite, epilepsy and diseases caused by Nagas. An image of Garuda is found in the toranas, the semicircular tympanum above the temple doors.
The emerald, also called Garuda stone is considered a protection against poison and Garuda images appear in Jewellery as a protection against snake bite.
The Garuda (Sanskrit: गरुड garuḍa, "eagle") is a large mythical bird or bird-like creature that appears in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology.
Garuda is the Hindu Name for the constellation Aquila and the Brahminy kite and Phoenix are considered to be the contemporary representations of Garuda. Indonesia adopts a more stylistic approach to the Garuda's depiction as its national Symbol, where it depicts a Javanese eagle (being much larger than a kite.
In Hinduism
In Hindu Religion, Garuda is a Hindu divinity, usually the mount (vahana) of the God Vishnu. Garuda is depicted as having the golden Body of a strong man with a white face, red wings, and an eagle's beak and with a crown on his head. This ancient Deity was said to be massive, large enough to block out the sun.
Garuda is known as the eternal sworn enemy of the Nāga serpent race and known for feeding exclusively on snakes, such behavior may have referred to the actual Short-toed Eagle of India. The image of Garuda is often used as the charm or
amulet to protect the bearer from snake attack and its poison, since the king of birds is an implacable enemy and "devourer of serpent". Garudi Vidya is the Mantra against snake poison to remove all kinds of Evil.
His stature in Hindu Religion can be gauged by the fact that an independent Upanishad, the Garudopanishad, and a Purana, the Garuda Purana, is devoted to him. Various names have been attributed to Garuda - Chirada, Gaganeshvara, Kamayusha, Kashyapi, Khageshvara, Nagantaka, Sitanana, Sudhahara, Suparna, Tarkshya, Vainateya, Vishnuratha and others. The Vedas provide the earliest reference of
Garuda, though by the Name of Śyena, where this mighty bird is said to have brought nectar to Earth from Heaven. The Puranas, which came into existence much later, mention Garuda as doing the same thing, which indicates that Śyena (Sanskrit for
Eagle) and Garuda are the same. One of the faces of Śrī Pañcamukha Hanuman is Mahavira Garuda. This face points towards the west. Worship of Garuda is believed to remove the effects of poisons from one's Body. In Tamil Vaishnavism Garuda and Hanuman are known as "Periya Thiruvadi" and "Siriya Thiruvadi" respectively.
In the Bhagavad-Gita (Ch.10, Verse 30), in the middle of the battlefield "Kurukshetra", Krishna explaining his omnipresence, says - " as son of Vinata, I am in the Form of Garuda, the king of the bird community (Garuda)" indicating the importance of Garuda.
Garuda wears the serpent Adisesha on his left wrist and the serpant Gulika on his Right wrist. The serpent Vasuki forms his sacred thread. The cobra Takshaka forms his belt on his hip. The snake Karkotaka is worn as his necklace. The snakes Padma and Mahapadma are his ear rings. The snake Shankachuda adorns his divine Hair. He is flanked by
his two wives ‘Rudra’ and ‘Sukeerthi’ or (Sukirthi). These are all invoked in Vedanta Desika's Garuda Panchashath and Garuda Dandaka compositions. Garuda flanked with his consorts 'Rudra' and 'Sukirthi' can be seen worshipped in an ancient Soumya Keshava temple in Bindiganavile (or Mayura puri in Sanskrit ) in Karnataka state of India.
Garuda Vyuha is worshiped in Tantra for Abhichara and to protect against Abhichara. However, the Interesting thing is that Garuda is the Sankarshna Form of the Lord who during creation primarily possesses the Knowledge aspect of the Lord (among Vasudeva, Sankarshana, Pradyumna and Aniruddha forms). The important point is that Garuda represents the five vayus
within us : prana, vyana, Udana, samana, brahmana through his five forms Satya, Suparna, Garuda, Tarkshya, Vihageshwara. These five vayus through yoga can be controlled through Pranayama which can lead to Kundalini Awakening leading to higher levels of Consciousness.
Garuda plays an important role in Krishna Avatar in which Krishna and Satyabhama ride on Garuda to kill Narakasura. On another occasion, Lord Hari rides on Garuda to save the devotee Elephant Gajendra. It is also said that Garuda's wings when flying will Chant the Vedas.
In the Mahabharata
Birth and deeds
The story of Garuda's birth and deeds is told in the first book of the great epic Mahabharata. According to the epic, when Garuda first burst forth from his egg, he appeared as a raging inferno equal to the cosmic conflagration that consumes the World at the end of every age. Frightened, the Gods begged him for mercy. Garuda, hearing their plea, reduced himself in size and energy.
Garuda's father was the creator-rishi Kasyapa. He had two wives, Vinata and Kadru, who were daughters of Prajapathi Daksha. Kasyapa, on the pleadings of his wives, granted them their wishes; Vinita wished for two sons and Kadru wished for thousand
snakes as her sons. Both laid eggs, while the thousand eggs of Kadru hatched early (after steaming the eggs to hatch) into snakes, the hatching of two eggs of Vinata did not take place for a long Time. Impatient, Vinata broke open one egg, which was half
formed with the upper half only as a human and was thus deformed. Her half formed son cursed her that she would be slave for her sister (she was her rival) for a long Time by which Time her second son would be born who would save her from his curse; her first son who flew away and came to
prominence as Aruna, the red spectacle seen as the Sun rises in the morning, and as also charioteer of the Sun. The second egg hatched after a long Time during which period Vinata was the servant of her sister as she had lost a bet with her. When the second egg hatched, a fully grown, shining and of mighty sized bird Form emerged as Garuda, the king of birds. Garuda was thus born.
One day, Vinata entered into and lost a foolish bet, as a result of which she became enslaved to her sister. Resolving to release his mother from this state of bondage, Garuda approached the serpents and asked them what it would take to purchase her freedom. Their reply was that
Garuda would have to bring them the elixir of immortality, also called amrita. It was a tall order. The amrita at that Time found itself in the possession of the Gods, who guarded it jealously, since it was the source of their immortality. They had ringed the elixir with a
massive Fire that covered the sky. They had blocked the way to the elixir with a fierce mechanical contraption of sharp rotating blades. And finally, they had stationed two gigantic poisonous snakes next to the elixir as deadly guardians.
Undaunted, Garuda hastened toward the abode of the Gods intent on robbing them of their treasure. Knowing of his design, the Gods met him in full battle-array. Garuda, however, defeated the entire host and scattered them in all Directions. Taking the water of many Rivers into his mouth, he extinguished the protective Fire the Gods had thrown up. Reducing his size, he crept past the
rotating blades of their murderous machine. And finally, he mangled the two gigantic serpents they had posted as guards. Taking the elixir into his mouth without swallowing it, he launched again into the air and headed toward the eagerly waiting serpents. En route, he encountered Vishnu. Rather than fight, the two exchanged promises. Vishnu promised Garuda the gift of immortality even without
drinking from the elixir, and Garuda promised to become Vishnu's mount. Flying onward, he met Indra the God of the sky. Another exchange of promises occurred. Garuda promised that once he had delivered the elixir, thus fulfilling the request of the serpents, he would make it possible for Indra to regain possession of the elixir and to take it back to the Gods. Indra in turn promised Garuda the serpents as food.
At long last, Garuda alighted in front of the waiting serpents. Placing the elixir on the grass, and thereby liberating his mother Vinata from her servitude, he urged the serpents to perform their religious ablutions before consuming it. As they hurried off to do so, Indra swooped in to
make off with the elixir. The serpents came back from their ablutions and saw the elixir gone but with small droplets of it on the grass. They tried to lick the droplets and thereby split their tongues in two. From then onwards, serpents have split tongues and shed their skin as a kind of immortality.
From that day onward, Garuda was the ally of the Gods and the trusty mount of Vishnu, as well as the implacable enemy of snakes, upon whom he preyed at every opportunity.
Descendents
According to the Mahabharata, Garuda had six sons from whom were descended the race of birds. The members of this race were of great might and without compassion, subsisting as they did on their relatives the snakes. Vishnu was their protector.
As a Symbol
Throughout the Mahabharata, Garuda is invoked as a Symbol of impetuous violent force, of speed, and of martial prowess. Powerful warriors advancing rapidly on doomed foes are likened to Garuda swooping down on a serpent. Defeated
warriors are like snakes beaten down by Garuda. The field marshal Drona uses a military formation named after Garuda. Krishna even carries the image of Garuda on his banner.
In Buddhism
In Buddhist mythology, the Garuda (Pāli: garuḷā) are enormous predatory birds with intelligence and social organization. Another Name for the Garuda is suparṇa (Pāli: supaṇṇa), meaning "well-winged, having good wings". Like the Nāga, they combine the characteristics of Animals and divine beings, and may be considered to be among the lowest Devas.
The exact size of the Garuda is uncertain, but its wings are said to have a span of many miles. This may be a poetic exaggeration, but it is also said that when a Garuda's wings flap, they create hurricane-like winds that darken the sky and blow down houses. A human being is so small compared to a Garuda that a man can hide in the plumage of one without being noticed (Kākātī Jātaka, J.327). They are also capable of tearing up entire banyan Trees from their roots and carrying them off.
Garudas are the great golden-winged Peng birds. They also have the ability to grow large or small, and to appear and disappear at will. Their wingspan is 330 yojanas (one yojana being 40 miles long). With one flap of its wings, a Peng bird dries up the waters of the sea so that it can gobble up all the exposed Dragons. With another flap of its wings, it can level the mountains by moving them into the ocean.
There were also the four garuda-kings : Great-Power-Virtue Garuda-King, Great-Body Garuda-King, Great-Fulfillment Garuda-King, and Free-At-Will Garuda-King, each accompanied by hundreds of thousands of attendants.
The Garudas have kings and cities, and at least some of them have the magical Power of changing into human Form when they wish to have dealings with people. On some occasions Garuda kings have had romances with human women in this Form. Their dwellings are in groves of the simbalī, or silk-cotton Tree.
The Garuda are enemies to the Nāga, a race of intelligent serpent- or dragon-like beings, whom they hunt. The Garudas at one Time caught the nāgas by seizing them by their heads; but the nāgas learned that by swallowing large stones, they could make themselves too heavy to be carried by the Garudas, wearing them out and killing them from exhaustion. This secret was divulged to one of the
Garudas by the Ascetic Karambiya, who taught him how to seize a Nāga by the tail and force him to vomit up his stone (Pandara Jātaka, J.518).
The Garudas were among the beings appointed by Śakra to guard Mount Sumeru and the Trāyastriṃśa Heaven from the attacks of the Asuras.
In the Mahasamyatta Sutta, The Buddha is shown making temporary Peace between the Nagas and the Garudas.
The Thai rendering of Krut (Garuda) as Vishnu vehicle and Garuda's quest for elixir was based on Indian legend of Garuda. It was told that Garuda overcame many heavenly beings in order to gain the ambrosia (amrita) elixir. No one was able to get the better
of him, not even Narai (Vishnu). At last, a truce was called and an agreement was made to settle the rancor and smooth all the ruffled feathers. It was agreed that when Narai is in his heavenly palace, Garuda will be positioned in a superior status, atop the pillar above Narai's residence. However, whenever Narai wants to travel anywhere, Garuda must serve as his transport.
The Sanskrit word Garuda has been borrowed and modified in the languages of several countries. In Burmese, Garudas are called galone (ဂဠုန်). In Burmese Astrology, the vehicle of the Sunday planet is the galone. In the Kapampangan Language of the
Philippines, the native word for eagle is galura. In Japanese a Garuda is called karura (however, the Form Garuda ガルーダ is used in recent Japanese fiction - see below).
For the Mongols, the Garuda is called Khan Garuda or Khangarid (Mongolian: Хангарьд). Before and after each round of Mongolian wrestling, wrestlers perform the Garuda Ritual, a stylised imitation of the Khangarid and a hawk.
In the Qing Dynasty fiction The Story of Yue Fei (1684), Garuda sits at the head of The Buddha's throne. But when a celestial bat (an embodiment of the Aquarius constellation) flatulates during The Buddha’s expounding of the Lotus Sutra, Garuda kills her and is exiled from paradise. He is later reborn as Song Dynasty General Yue Fei. The bat is reborn as Lady
Wang, wife of the traitor Prime Minister Qin Hui, and is instrumental in formulating the "Eastern Window" plot that leads to Yue's eventual political execution. It is Interesting to note The Story of Yue Fei plays on the legendary animosity between Garuda and the Nagas when the celestial bird-born Yue Fei defeats a magic serpent who transforms into the unearthly spear he uses
throughout his military career. Literary critic C.T. Hsia explains the reason why Qian Cai, the book's author, linked Yue with Garuda is because of the homology in their Chinese names. Yue Fei's style Name is Pengju (鵬舉). A Peng (鵬) is a giant
mythological bird likened to the Middle Eastern Roc. Garuda's Chinese Name is Great Peng, the Golden-Winged Illumination King (大鵬金翅明王).
As a cultural and national Symbol
In India, Indonesia and the rest of Southeast Asia the eagle symbolism is represented by Garuda, a large mythical bird with eagle-like features that appears in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology as the vahana (vehicle) of the
God Vishnu. Garuda became the national emblem of Thailand and Indonesia; Thailand's Garuda is rendered in a more traditional anthropomorphic mythical style, while that of Indonesia is rendered in heraldic style with traits similar to the real Javan Hawk-eagle.
India
India uses Garuda as military Symbols:
- Garud Commando Force is a Special Forces unit of the Indian Air Force, specializing in operations deep behind enemy lines.
- The Brigade of the Guards of the Indian Army uses the Garud as their Symbol.
- The elite bodyguards of the medieval Hoysala kings in Karnataka, India, were called Garudas, because they served the king in the way that Garuda served Vishnu.
- In both Kerala and Andhra pradesh,its state road transport are using Garuda as the Name for Volvo buses.
- Garuda rock A Rocky cliff in Tirumala hills in Andhra pradesh
- 13th century Aragalur chief Magadesan's insignia was Rishabha the sacred Bull and the Garuda.
Indonesia
Indonesia uses the Garuda, Garuda Pancasila as its national Symbol, it is somewhat intertwined with the concept of the phoenix.
- The Garuda Pancasila is coloured or gilt gold, symbolizes the greatness of the nation and is a representation of the elang Jawa or Javan Hawk-eagle Nisaetus bartelsi. The black color represents nature. There are 17 feathers on each wing, 8 on the lower tail, 19 on the upper tail and 45 on the neck, which represent the date Indonesia proclaimed its independence: 17 August 1945. The shield it carries with the Indonesian Panca Sila heraldry symbolizes Self-defense and protection in struggle.
- The Indonesian national airline is Garuda Indonesia.
- Indonesian Armed Forces United Nations peacekeeping missions is known as Pasukan Garuda or Garuda Contingent
- Airlangga University, one of the oldest and leading university in Indonesia uses Garuda on its emblem. The emblem, containing a Garuda in a blue and yellow circle, is called "Garudamukha", and depicts Garuda as the bearer of Knowledge, carrying a jug of Amrita, the water of eternity, symbolizing eternal Knowledge.
- In Bali and Java Garuda has become a cultural Symbol, the wooden statue and mask of Garuda is a popular artworks and souvenirs.
- In Bali, we can find the tallest Garuda statue of 18 metres tall made from tons of copper and brass. The statue is located in Garuda Wisnu Kencana complex.
- Garuda has identified as Indonesian national football team in international games, namely "The Garuda Team".
- The stylized brush stroke that resemble Garuda is appear in the logo of 2011 Southeast Asian Games, held in Palembang and Jakarta, Indonesia.
- The stylized curves that took Form of Garuda Pancasila is appear in the logo of Wonderful Indonesia tourism campaign.
Thailand
Thailand uses the Garuda (Thai: ครุฑ, khrut) as its national Symbol.
- One Form of the Garuda used in Thailand as a sign of the royal family is called Khrut Pha, meaning "Garuda, the vehicle (of Vishnu)."
- The statue and images of Garuda adorned many Buddhist temples in Thailand, it also has become the cultural Symbol of Thailand.
Mongolia
- The Garuda, known as Khangarid, is the Symbol of the capital city of Mongolia, Ulan Bator. According to popular Mongolian belief, Khangarid is the mountain Spirit of the Bogd Khan Uul range who became a follower of Buddhist Faith. Today he is considered the guardian of that mountain range and a Symbol of courage and honesty.
- The bird also gives its Name to Hangard Aviation
- Khangarid (Хангарьд), a football (soccer) team in the Mongolia Premier League also named after Garuda.
- Garuda Ord (Гаруда Орд), a private construction and trading company based in Ulaanbaatar, also named after Garuda.
- State Garuda (Улсын Гарьд) is a title given to the debut runner up in wrestling tournament during Mongolian National Festival Naadam.
Garuda (Skt. garuḍa; Tib. & Wyl. khyung) – a mythical bird-like creature symbolizing various elements of the Buddhist path.
Overview
The garuda symbol can have the following meanings:
- A mythical creature
- One of the four dignities associated with the windhorse
- A deity of protection
- Our primordial nature
A Mythical Creature
On the outer level, the garuda is a mythical semi-divine bird-like creature that is the enemy of the nagas. It is represented in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions (especially in Tibetan, Cham, Khmer and Javan art). In the Tibetan Vajrayana tradition, the garuda was associated with the khyung, which are important deities of the Bön pantheon, and practised during healing rituals in order to counter certain illnesses provoked by nagas.
One of the Four Dignities
The garuda is also one of the four dignities associated with the windhorse. In this context, the garuda represents the fire element, and it is said to to symbolize freedom from hopes and fears.
Deity of Protection
Garuda is also an important deity of protection. For example:
- It is one of the Three Deities of the Great Master Vajrapani
- It is depicted above Vajrakilaya in Vajrakilaya thangkas
- The practice of Takhyung Barwa combines the practices of Hayagriva, Guru Drakpo, and Garuda.
Our Primordial Nature
In the Dzogchen teachings, the garuda represents our primordial nature. The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying says:
- The Dzogchen Tantras, the ancient teachings from which the bardo instructions come, speak of a mythical bird, the garuda, which is born fully grown. This image symbolizes our primordial nature, which is already completely perfect. The
garuda chick has all its wing feathers fully developed inside the egg, but it cannot fly before it hatches. Only at the moment when the shell cracks open can it burst out and soar into the sky. Similarly, the masters tell us, the qualities of buddhahood are veiled by the body, and as soon as the body is discarded, they will be radiantly displayed. [1]
Further Reading
- Robert Beer, The Handbook of Tibetan Buddhist Symbols (Boston: Shambhala, 2003), p.74-77
Footnotes
- ↑ The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying, page 109.
garuḍa. (P. garuḍa/garuḷa; T. khyung/mkha’ lding; C. jialouluo; J. karura; K. karura 迦樓羅). In Sanskrit and Pāli, mythical “golden-winged bird,” one of the eight classes of nonhuman beings (Aṣṭasenā) who are often in attendance during Śākyamuni’s sermons.
In traditional Indian mythology, the garuḍa was a golden-winged bird who was the deification of the sun’s brilliance; thus, like the phoenix in Western mythology, it served as a symbol of fire or flame. Garu ḍas served as the mount of Viṣṇu and were the mortal enemies of Nāgas and snakes.
The garuḍa was said to be fantastic in size, with a massive wingspan (some texts say as wide as 330 Yojanas), and carried either a wishfulfilling gem (Cintāmaṇi) or a talisman around its neck.
Its wings were said to be adorned with marvelous gems, and it had a huge gullet that would allow it slowly to digest enormous amounts of food.
Garuḍas are sometimes portrayed in Buddhist art as having the head and wings of an eagle and the body of a man. Jātaka stories describe garuḍas as giant birds, massive in both size and strength, which are capable of splitting the ocean by flapping their wings, creating an enormous breeze known as the garuḍa wind.
The Saṃyuttanikāya mentions that garuḍas roost in the forest of silk-cotton trees, and their nests are in danger of being crushed by Sakka’s (S. Śakra; Indra) chariot as it speeds through the forest.
Garuḍas eat only flesh and are the enemies of nāgas, which are their main food. In the jātakas, garuḍas are said to live on the nāga island of Seruma (also called, simply, Nāgadīpa).
With their garuḍa wind, they can lift into the air nāgas that are a thousand fathoms long, uprooting the banyan trees around which the snakes wrap themselves.
Besides possessing impressive strength, garuḍas are also described in the jātakas as having supernatural powers, such as in the Sussondī Jātaka, where garuḍas use their special powers to plunge the whole city into darkness in order to carry off Queen Sussondī. Garuḍas were formerly considered to be wrathful creatures but, after having been converted by the Buddha, they now protect his teachings.
In both mainstream and Mahāyāna materials, garuḍas are said to pay homage to the Buddha as one of a group of eight mythical classes of nonhuman beings (aṣṭasenā):
divinities (Deva), nāgas, demons (Yakṣa), celestial musicians (Gandharva), demigods (Asura), half-human half-horse (or half-bird) celestial musicians (Kiṃnara), and snake spirits (Mahorāga).
In Buddhist tantra garuḍas are a Dharmapāla and appear in the Parivāra (retinue) of various tantric deities, as both companion and mount.
In tantric Buddhism there exists a group known as the pañcagaruḍa (khyung rigs lnga): the garuḍas of the Buddha, karma, ratna, vajra, and padma families.
Source
The Princeton Dictionary of Buddhism by Robert E. Buswell Jr. and Donald S. Lopez Jr.