Mahabharata - Ādi Parva (महाभारत - आदि पर्व)
Chapter 3
Then the mighty, immensely powerful bird, able to go wherever he wished, came to his mother on the far shore of the great ocean. (BORI: 1-21-1)
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where Vinata, having lost that wager, was tormented by profound grief and had become a slave. (BORI: 1-21-2)
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Then one day, Kadru summoned the submissive Vinata in her son’s presence and said to her: (BORI: 1-21-3)
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Dear Vinata, carry me to the serpents’ delightful and beautiful abode, there in a secluded part of the ocean’s depths. (BORI: 1-21-4)
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Then Suparṇa’s mother carried the mother of the serpents, while Garuḍa, impelled by his mother’s command, carried the serpents. (BORI: 1-21-5)
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The winged son of Vinatā flew close to the sun, and the serpents, enveloped by its rays, lost consciousness. (तदवस्थान्सुतान्दृष्ट्वा कद्रूः शक्रमथास्तुवत् ॥BORI: 1-21-6)
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Homage to you, Lord of the gods; homage to you, slayer of Bala. Homage to you, slayer of Namuci, thousand-eyed lord of Śacī. (BORI: 1-21-7)
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For the serpents scorched by the sun, be a saving flood of water. You alone are our supreme refuge, best of the immortals. (BORI: 1-21-8)
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For you have the power to create abundant water, Purandara. You are the cloud, the wind, and the lightning fire in the sky. (BORI: 1-21-9)
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You scatter the masses of clouds, yet they also call you the cloud itself. You are the terrible, peerless thunderbolt; you are the roaring rain cloud. (BORI: 1-21-10)
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You alone are the creator of the worlds and their unconquered destroyer. You are the light of all beings; you are the sun and fire. (BORI: 1-21-11)
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You are the great and wondrous being; you are the king and the highest of the gods. You are Vishnu, the thousand-eyed one; you are God and the supreme refuge. (BORI: 1-21-12)
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You are everything, you are immortality, O god; you are Soma, supremely honored. You are the muhūrta and the lunar day; you are the lava, and you are also the moment. (BORI: 1-21-13)
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You are the bright and dark fortnights, the kalā, kāṣṭhā, and truṭi, as well as the years, seasons, months, nights, and days. (BORI: 1-21-14)
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You are the supreme earth, with its mountains and forests; likewise the sky, with the sun and free from darkness; and the great ocean, with its timis and timiṅgilas, its mighty waves and many makaras—the home of fish. (BORI: 1-21-15)
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“You are great glory”—thus, joyful at heart, you are always highly honored by wise great seers. Praised, you drink Soma at the sacrifice, as well as the oblations offered with the cry of vaṣaṭ, for prosperity. (BORI: 1-21-16)
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You are continually worshipped here by Brahmins seeking reward, and are praised in the Vedāṅgas, O you of incomparable might. For your sake, the foremost of the twice-born, devoted to sacrifice, master the Vedāṅgas together with all the Vedas. (BORI: 1-21-17)
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Thus praised by Kadru, the divine bearer of Hari covered the entire sky with masses of dark rain clouds. (BORI: 1-22-1)
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Those clouds, flashing with lightning, poured forth torrents of rain as they roared incessantly in the sky, as though striving to outdo one another. (BORI: 1-22-2)
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as though the sky were densely packed with astonishingly immense clouds, ceaselessly pouring down an incomparable volume of water with tremendous roars… (BORI: 1-22-3)
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The sky seemed to dance in many ways with billowing torrents and became filled with the roar of thunderclouds. (BORI: 1-22-4)
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Then, as Indra poured down rain, the elephants’ joy was immense, and the earth was filled with water on every side. (BORI: 1-22-5)
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Supplementary Verses from Other Witnesses.
He commanded the clouds, “Rain down the blessed nectar.” (KUMB: 1-26-2; NILA: 01.026.002)
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with those clouds then pouring down in an unbroken torrent day and night... (KUMB: 1-26-5; NILA: 01.026.005)
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The cool, clear water reached Rasātala. (KUMB: 1-26-7; NILA: 01.026.007)
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Then the earth was covered on every side by waves of water, and the serpents came with their mother to Ramanīyaka. (KUMB: 1-26-8; NILA: 01.026.008)
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Carried by Suparna, they swiftly reached that land, encircled by the ocean’s waters and resounding with the cries of flocks of birds… (BORI: 1-23-1)
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surrounded by groves of trees bearing varied fruits and flowers, and adorned with beautiful buildings and lotus ponds, (BORI: 1-23-2)
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adorned with beautiful lakes of clear water and fanned by pure breezes bearing heavenly fragrances; (BORI: 1-23-3)
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adorned with sandalwood trees that seemed to sniff the sky, tossed by the wind and shedding showers of flowers, (BORI: 1-23-4)
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as though showering the Nagas there with flowers and water—a holy place that delighted the heart, dear to Gandharvas and Apsarases, charming with the calls of many kinds of birds, and gladdening the sons of Kadru. (BORI: 1-23-5)
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Reaching that forest, the serpents sported there joyfully and said to the mighty Suparṇa, the foremost of birds… (BORI: 1-23-6)
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“Carry us to another island, delightful and rich in water. For as you fly, O sky-roamer, you see many delightful lands.” (BORI: 1-23-7)
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After reflecting, the bird said to his mother Vinata, “Mother, why must I do as the serpents say?” (BORI: 1-23-8)
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I have become the slave of my ignoble sister, O best of birds, because the serpents deceitfully made the wager false. (BORI: 1-23-9)
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When his mother told him the reason, the sky-roaming bird, distressed by her suffering, said to the serpents: (BORI: 1-23-10)
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What must I bring, learn, or accomplish by my prowess here to be freed from servitude to you? Tell me truly, you tongue-flickers. (BORI: 1-23-11)
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Hearing him, the serpents said, “Bring the nectar by your might. Then you will be freed from bondage, O sky-roamer.” (BORI: 1-23-12)
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Supplementary Verses from Other Witnesses.
Then the delighted serpents, drenched by torrents of water... (KUMB: 1-27-1; NILA: 01.027.001)
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Having reached that island—a haunt of makaras fashioned by Vishvakarman—they first saw the fearsome salt ocean there… (KUMB: 1-27-2; NILA: 01.027.002)
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The serpents, accompanied by Suparna, … a delightful forest as well… (KUMB: 1-27-3; NILA: 01.027.003)
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with trees whose blossoms were tossed by the wind, and with other trees as well… (KUMB: 1-27-7; NILA: 01.027.007)
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resounding with intoxicated bees, charming in form and appearance, lovely, auspicious, and holy, with all those that delight the human heart… (KUMB: 1-27-8; KUMB: 1-27-9; NILA: 01.027.008; NILA: 01.027.009)
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Thus addressed by the snakes, Garuda then said to his mother, “I am going to fetch the nectar of immortality; I wish to know what I may eat.” (BORI: 1-24-1)
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In a remote part of the ocean’s depths is a great settlement of Niṣādas, many thousands strong. Eat them, then bring the nectar of immortality. (BORI: 1-24-2)
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But under no circumstances should you resolve to kill a Brahmin, for a Brahmin, like fire, must not be slain by any creature. (BORI: 1-24-3)
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When angered, a Brahmin becomes fire, the sun, poison, and a weapon. The Brahmin is the first to partake of offerings, the foremost of the social classes, a father, and a teacher to all beings. (BORI: 1-24-4)
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Mother, please explain to me, as I ask, how I may recognize a Brahmin by his auspicious marks, and give me the reasons. (BORI: 1-24-5)
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My son, know as an eminent Brahmin anyone who, upon reaching your throat, torments you like a swallowed fishhook and burns like a glowing coal. (BORI: 1-24-6)
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And Vinata, though she knew his matchless prowess, spoke these words to him out of maternal affection, accompanying them with a blessing: (BORI: 1-24-7)
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May the Wind protect your wings, the Moon your back, my son; may Fire protect your head, and the Sun all of you. (BORI: 1-24-8)
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And I too, my son, am ever intent on your peace and welfare. Go safely on your way, child, to accomplish your purpose. (BORI: 1-24-9)
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Then, hearing his mother’s words, he spread his wings and soared into the sky. Powerful and hungry, he approached the Nishadas like mighty Death, the ender of all, at the appointed time. (BORI: 1-24-10)
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As he gathered those Nishadas together, raising a great cloud of dust that reached the sky, drying up the water in the ocean’s depths, and shaking the nearby mountains… (BORI: 1-24-11)
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Then the king of birds opened his mouth wide, blocking the Niṣādas’ path. The Niṣādas hurried toward the mouth of that serpent-eater. (BORI: 1-24-12)
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By the thousands, they rushed into that gaping, immense mouth like birds taking to the sky, driven and bewildered by swirling wind and dust in a forest whose trees are shaken by a mighty gale. (BORI: 1-24-13)
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Then the mighty, exceedingly swift bird, tormentor of his foes and hungry lord of the sky-roaming creatures, closed his mouth, killing those who fed on many kinds of fish. (BORI: 1-24-14)
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Supplementary Verses from Other Witnesses.
There are dwellings of Nishadas there, O best of birds—sinful, merciless, wicked men whose worlds are lost. (KUMB: 1-28-2; KUMB: 1-28-3)
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For the Brahmin is said to be the teacher of all beings. (KUMB: 1-28-5; NILA: 01.028.004)
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Because of qualities such as these, a Brahmin is esteemed by the virtuous. Therefore, dear child, you must never kill him, even when enraged. (KUMB: 1-28-6; NILA: 01.028.005)
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One must never show hostility toward Brahmins. For neither fire nor the sun could reduce one to ashes so completely, O sinless one, as… (KUMB: 1-28-7; NILA: 01.028.006)
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as an enraged Brahmin, strict in his vows, would. By these various signs you should recognize him as the foremost of the twice-born. (KUMB: 1-28-8; NILA: 01.028.007)
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Mother, what does a Brahmin look like? What is his character, and what is his power? Does he shine like fire, or is he gentle in appearance? (KUMB: 1-28-9क्ष्; KUMB: 1-28-10; NILA: 01.028.008; NILA: 01.028.009)
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You must never kill a Brahmin, even when enraged. (KUMB: 1-28-12; NILA: 01.028.011)
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Know that anyone who is not digested in your stomach is an eminent Brahmin. Out of affection for her son, Vinata again spoke these words: (KUMB: 1-28-13; KUMB: 1-28-14; NILA: 01.028.012; NILA: 01.028.013)
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Pleased, yet tormented by profound grief and mistreated by the Nagas… (KUMB: 1-28-15; NILA: 01.028.014)
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And may the all-pervading Vishnu protect all your limbs. (KUMB: 1-28-16)
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I shall remain seated here, always engaged in bestowing blessings. (KUMB: 1-28-17; NILA: 01.028.016)
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When the Brahmin and his wife reached his throat, scorching him like a glowing coal, the sky-roamer said to him: (BORI: 1-25-1)
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“O best of brahmins, come out quickly through my open mouth. I must not kill a brahmin, even one who is forever devoted to sinful deeds.” (BORI: 1-25-2)
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As Garuḍa spoke thus, the Brahmin replied, “This Niṣāda woman is my wife; let her come out with me.” (BORI: 1-25-3)
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Take this Nishada woman with you as well and come out at once. Quickly save yourself from being digested by my heat. (BORI: 1-25-4)
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Then the Brahmin came out together with the Nishada woman. After blessing Garuda, he went to the land of his choice. (BORI: 1-25-5)
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When the Brahmin had departed with his wife, the king of birds spread his wings and soared into the sky, swift as thought. (BORI: 1-25-6)
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Then he saw his father and, when questioned, told him, “The serpents have sent me to fetch the Soma. I intend to bring it back today to free my mother from slavery.” (BORI: 1-25-7)
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My mother also instructed me to eat the Nishadas, but even after devouring thousands of them, I was not satisfied. (BORI: 1-25-8)
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Therefore, blessed lord, tell me what else I should eat, so that after eating it I may be strong enough to fetch the nectar of immortality, my lord. (BORI: 1-25-9)
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There was a great sage named Vibhāvasu, who was exceedingly irascible. His younger brother was Supratīka, a great ascetic. (BORI: 1-25-10)
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The great sage Supratīka did not wish to hold his wealth jointly with his brother; instead, he constantly insisted on dividing it. (BORI: 1-25-11)
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Then his brother Vibhāvasu said to Supratīka, “Many people, out of delusion, always wish to divide their property. Once divided, they no longer care for one another, deluded by wealth.” (BORI: 1-25-12)
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Then, recognizing that these fools, intent on their own interests, have become divided by their separate wealth, enemies disguised as friends sow dissension among them. (BORI: 1-25-13)
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Then others, seeing that they are divided, rush into the gaps between them. The destruction of the divided is unequalled and swiftly sets in. (BORI: 1-25-14)
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For this very reason, the wise do not approve of partition among those who are bound by their elders’ injunctions and suspicious of one another. (BORI: 1-25-15)
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Since you cannot be restrained and seek to divide the wealth, you shall therefore, Supratika, become an elephant. (BORI: 1-25-16)
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Thus cursed, Supratīka then said to Vibhāvasu, “You too shall become a tortoise dwelling in the water.” (BORI: 1-25-17)
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Thus, through their mutual curses, Supratika and Vibhavasu, their minds deluded by the pursuit of wealth, became an elephant and a tortoise. (BORI: 1-25-18)
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Though they had passed into animal births through the consequences of their anger, the two remained intent on mutual hatred, proud of their size and strength... (BORI: 1-25-19)
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In this lake, both huge-bodied and still pursuing their former enmity... One of the two, the magnificent great elephant, approaches. (BORI: 1-25-20)
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At the sound of his trumpeting, the huge turtle lying beneath the water also rose, churning the entire lake. (BORI: 1-25-21)
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Seeing him, the mighty elephant, his trunk curled, plunged into the water with the force of his tusks, trunk-tip, tail, and feet. (BORI: 1-25-22)
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But as the mighty elephant churned up the lake, which teemed with fish, the mighty tortoise too raised its head and advanced to do battle. (BORI: 1-25-23)
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The elephant was six yojanas tall and twice that in length; the tortoise was three yojanas high and ten yojanas in circumference. (BORI: 1-25-24)
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These two are maddened with battle, each seeking to defeat the other. Devour them, and quickly accomplish the task you desire. (BORI: 1-25-25)
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Hearing his father’s words, the immensely swift sky-roaming bird seized the elephant in one talon and the tortoise in the other. (BORI: 1-25-26)
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Then the bird soared high into the sky. Reaching Alamba Tirtha, he approached the divine trees. (BORI: 1-25-27)
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Those divine trees with golden branches trembled in fear, buffeted by the wind from his wings and thinking, “May he not break us!” (BORI: 1-25-28)
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Seeing those trees, their limbs swaying and their shoots bearing wish-fulfilling fruit, the sky-roamer approached others whose limbs were of incomparable beauty— (BORI: 1-25-29)
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great trees with beryl branches, shining with fruits of gold and silver and surrounded by the waters of the ocean… (BORI: 1-25-30)
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There the immensely tall and mighty Rohiṇa tree addressed that foremost of birds as he approached with the speed of thought: (BORI: 1-25-31)
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This great branch of mine extends for a hundred yojanas. Perch upon it and eat these two, the elephant and the tortoise. (BORI: 1-25-32)
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Then the swift foremost of birds, whose body resembled a mountain, swooped rapidly upon the tree frequented by thousands of birds, making it tremble, and broke off that branch, thickly covered with leaves. (BORI: 1-25-33)
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Supplementary Verses from Other Witnesses.
Then the great sage, of immeasurable spirit, duly said to him: (KUMB: 1-29-7; NILA: 01.029.007)
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Are you always well, my son, and do you have plenty to eat? Is abundant food available to you in the human world? (KUMB: 1-29-8; NILA: 01.029.008)
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Where are you going in such great haste? You should tell me. (KUMB: 1-29-8)
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My mother is well, as always; so is my brother, and so indeed am I. Yet I am never well, father, even with abundant food. (KUMB: 1-29-9; NILA: 01.029.009)
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Tell me, sir, what I may eat to ward off hunger and thirst. This lake is exceedingly sacred and renowned even in the world of the gods… (KUMB: 1-29-13; KUMB: 1-29-13क्ष्; NILA: 01.029.013)
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There an elephant, with his head lowered, constantly drags his elder brother, the tortoise. I shall tell you in full of the enmity between them in a former birth. (KUMB: 1-29-14; NILA: 01.029.014)
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Learn from me the truth of this, and how large the two of them are. (KUMB: 1-29-15; NILA: 01.029.015)
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Listen, my child—may all be well with you—to a story that fosters detachment, which arose long ago when our parents’ property was divided, O egg-born one. (KUMB: 1-29-15; KUMB: 1-29-16)
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Many evils will arise from dividing the inheritance, O great ascetic. (KUMB: 1-29-19)
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Thus addressed, Supratika continued incessantly to demand his share. Pressed by him in this way, Vibhavasu cursed him. (KUMB: 1-29-22; KUMB: 1-29-23)
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After eating that fearsome elephant, which resembles a great mass of clouds and looks like a mighty mountain, bring the nectar of immortality. (KUMB: 1-29-34; NILA: 01.029.032)
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Having said this, he then pronounced a blessing upon Garuda: “May good fortune attend you in battle as you fight the gods.” (KUMB: 1-29-35; NILA: 01.029.033)
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A full vessel, Brahmins, cows, and anything else that is excellent will be auspicious and bring you well-being, O egg-born one... (KUMB: 1-29-36; NILA: 01.029.034)
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As you fight against the gods in battle, O mighty one, the Ṛgvedic verses, the Yajurvedic formulas, the Sāmavedic chants, the purificatory formulas, and the sacrificial offerings... (KUMB: 1-29-37; NILA: 01.029.035)
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all the mysteries and all the Vedas, your strength… Thus addressed by his father, Garuda left his presence and went to that lake. (KUMB: 1-29-38; NILA: 01.029.036)
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will increase it in a future battle, O best of birds. (KUMB: 1-29-38)
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They saw clear water teeming with many kinds of birds. (KUMB: 1-29-39; NILA: 01.029.037)
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In their midst stood a great and exceedingly beautiful tree, a thousand yojanas tall and covered with many branches. (KUMB: 1-29-44)
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a divine haven for birds, the tree named Rauhiṇa, in whose shade anyone who takes shelter is immediately refreshed. (KUMB: 1-29-45)
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But as soon as mighty Garuda touched it with his feet, that branch of the tree broke, and he held it up as it fell. (BORI: 1-26-1)
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As he looked with a smile at that great broken branch, he saw the Vālakhilyas hanging from it upside down. (BORI: 1-26-2)
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Fearing that they would be destroyed, the lord of birds flew after the branch and seized it in his beak out of concern for them. The bird then flew slowly about, shattering mountains. (BORI: 1-26-3)
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Thus he flew over many lands, carrying the elephant and the tortoise, but out of concern for the Vālakhilyas he could find no place to alight. (BORI: 1-26-4)
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He went to Gandhamādana, the imperishable and foremost of mountains, and there saw his father Kaśyapa engaged in austerities. (BORI: 1-26-5)
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His father too saw him, a bird of divine form, endowed with splendor, prowess, and strength, and as swift as thought and wind. (BORI: 1-26-6)
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resembling a mountain peak, like Brahmā’s upraised staff, inconceivable, unknowable, and terrifying to all beings… (BORI: 1-26-7)
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endowed with magical power, poised like a blazing fire itself, and unassailable and unconquerable by gods, Danavas, and Rakshasas... (BORI: 1-26-8)
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the shatterer of mountain peaks, the one who dried up the waters of rivers, the terrible convulser of worlds, whose appearance was like Death… (BORI: 1-26-9)
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When the blessed Kaśyapa saw him approaching, he discerned his intention and spoke these words: (BORI: 1-26-10)
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My son, do not act rashly, lest you immediately come to grief and the enraged Vālakhilyas, who subsist on rays, burn you. (BORI: 1-26-11)
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For his son’s sake, Kashyapa sought to placate those Valakhilyas, perfected through austerity, by addressing this matter: (BORI: 1-26-12)
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Garuda’s undertaking is for the welfare of living beings, O treasures of austerity. He wishes to accomplish a great deed, so you should grant him permission. (BORI: 1-26-13)
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Thus addressed by the Lord, those sages, intent on austerities, released the branch and went together to the sacred Himalayan mountain. (BORI: 1-26-14)
[PV-OTH:01_003_134]
Then, when they had departed, Vinata’s son, his mouth encumbered by the branch, asked his father Kasyapa: (BORI: 1-26-15)
[PV-OTH:01_003_135]
“Lord, where may I release this tree branch? Please tell me of a place devoid of Brahmins.” (BORI: 1-26-16)
[PV-OTH:01_003_136]
Then Kashyapa told him of a mountain devoid of people, its caves blocked by snow, inaccessible to others even in thought. (BORI: 1-26-17)
[PV-OTH:01_003_137]
Fixing his mind on that vast cavern in the mountain, Tārkṣya, carrying the branch, the elephant, and the tortoise, flew swiftly toward it. (BORI: 1-26-18)
[PV-OTH:01_003_138]
Not even a huge thong made from a hundred hides could encircle the great branch of the tree that the bird seized and carried away. (BORI: 1-26-19)
[PV-OTH:01_003_139]
Then Garuda, foremost of flying creatures, traveled a distance of a hundred thousand yojanas in no great length of time. (BORI: 1-26-20)
[PV-OTH:01_003_140]
At his father’s command, the sky-roamer reached that mountain in a mere moment and there released the huge, resounding branch. (BORI: 1-26-21)
[PV-OTH:01_003_141]
Struck by the wind from his wings, that king of mountains trembled and, its trees shaken, released a shower of flowers. (BORI: 1-26-22)
[PV-OTH:01_003_142]
The mountain’s peaks broke apart on every side; variegated with jewels and gold, they adorn the great mountain. (BORI: 1-26-23)
[PV-OTH:01_003_143]
Many trees, struck by that branch, shone with golden blossoms like clouds flashing with lightning. (BORI: 1-26-24)
[PV-OTH:01_003_144]
There the trees, once more covered in golden blossoms and mingled with the mountain’s minerals, shone resplendent, glowing in the rays of the sun. (BORI: 1-26-25)
[PV-OTH:01_003_145]
Then Garuda, the foremost of birds, alighted on the peak of that mountain and devoured both the elephant and the tortoise. (BORI: 1-26-26)
[PV-OTH:01_003_146]
Then, swift as thought, he flew up from the mountain peak. Thereupon ominous portents arose among the gods, foretelling danger. (BORI: 1-26-27)
[PV-OTH:01_003_147]
Indra’s cherished thunderbolt blazed in agitation, and a smoking, flaming meteor fell from heaven, dropping from the sky. (BORI: 1-26-28)
[PV-OTH:01_003_148]
Likewise, the respective weapons of the Vasus, Rudras, Adityas, Sadhyas, Maruts, and all the other hosts of gods rushed at one another. (BORI: 1-26-29)
[PV-OTH:01_003_149]
Then, as never before in battle, even in a war between gods and Asuras, winds blew with thunderous crashes, and meteors fell on every side. (BORI: 1-26-30)
[PV-OTH:01_003_150]
Though cloudless, the sky thundered with a tremendous roar; and even the god of the gods rained blood then. (BORI: 1-26-31)
[PV-OTH:01_003_151]
The gods’ garlands withered, and their radiance grew dim. Fierce, portentous clouds rained down torrents of blood, while rising clouds of dust battered their crowns. (BORI: 1-26-32)
[PV-OTH:01_003_152]
Then Śatakratu, deeply alarmed and frightened, saw those dreadful portents and spoke thus to Bṛhaspati in the presence of the gods: (BORI: 1-26-33)
[PV-OTH:01_003_153]
Blessed sir, why have these dreadful portents arisen? I see no enemy who could assail us in battle. (BORI: 1-26-34)
[PV-OTH:01_003_154]
Because of your offense and negligence, O Shatakratu, lord of the gods, the austerities of the Valakhilyas have brought forth an extraordinary being. (BORI: 1-26-35)
[PV-OTH:01_003_155]
The son of the sage Kashyapa and Vinata—a mighty, shape-shifting creature of the sky—has come to seize the Soma. (BORI: 1-26-36)
[PV-OTH:01_003_156]
This bird, foremost among the mighty, is capable of carrying off Soma. I believe him capable of anything; he could accomplish even the impossible. (BORI: 1-26-37)
[PV-OTH:01_003_157]
Hearing these words, Shakra said to the guardians of the nectar, “A bird of immense strength and valor is poised to seize the Soma here.” (BORI: 1-26-38)
[PV-OTH:01_003_158]
I therefore warn you, so that he does not carry it off by force; for Brihaspati told me that his strength is unequalled. (BORI: 1-26-39)
[PV-OTH:01_003_159]
On hearing these words, the astonished gods readied themselves and stood surrounding the nectar, together with Indra Śatakratu, wielder of the thunderbolt. (BORI: 1-26-40)
[PV-OTH:01_003_160]
The high-spirited gods wore costly armor of gold, richly fashioned and adorned with cat’s-eye gems… (BORI: 1-26-41)
[PV-OTH:01_003_161]
and raising thousands upon thousands of weapons of many kinds, dreadful in appearance, with keenly sharpened points and edges… (BORI: 1-26-42)
[PV-OTH:01_003_162]
all emitting sparks, flames, and smoke—discuses, iron clubs, tridents, and battle-axes... (BORI: 1-26-43)
[PV-OTH:01_003_163]
taking up various sharp spears, gleaming swords, and maces fearsome to behold, each suited to their own bodily form… (BORI: 1-26-44)
[PV-OTH:01_003_164]
Adorned with divine ornaments and bearing those radiant weapons, the shining hosts of gods stood there, free from sin. (BORI: 1-26-45)
[PV-OTH:01_003_165]
The gods, whose strength, valor, and splendor were unequalled, their minds fixed on guarding the nectar, destroyers of the Asuras’ cities, radiant with bodies blazing like kindled fire… (BORI: 1-26-46)
[PV-OTH:01_003_166]
Thus the splendid battlefield, occupied by the gods and crowded with hundreds of thousands of iron clubs, shone as though spread across the sky, illuminated by the sun’s rays. (BORI: 1-26-47)
[PV-OTH:01_003_167]
Supplementary Verses from Other Witnesses.
“Sages are hanging here; I must not kill them.” Seeing those Brahmarshis, devoted to austerities, hanging there, he… (KUMB: 1-30-3; NILA: 01.030.003)
[PV-SVO:01_003_168]
Then, thinking, “The falling branch would kill them,” the hero grasped the elephant and the tortoise more firmly in his talons… (KUMB: 1-30-4; NILA: 01.030.004)
[PV-SVO:01_003_169]
Seeing that feat of his, which surpassed even the gods, the great seers, their hearts trembling with amazement, gave the great bird a name: (KUMB: 1-30-6; NILA: 01.030.006)
[PV-SVO:01_003_170]
Having taken on a heavy burden, this bird flew aloft—hence “Garuda,” the best of birds, who feeds on serpents. (KUMB: 1-30-7; NILA: 01.030.007)
[PV-SVO:01_003_171]
Having eaten both of them—the tortoise and the elephant—that Tārkṣya… (KUMB: 1-30-31; NILA: 01.030.031)
[PV-SVO:01_003_172]
Take up defensive weapons, all of you, surround the nectar here, and guard it at my command, heroic gods. (KUMB: 1-30-44; KUMB: 1-30-45)
[PV-SVO:01_003_173]
and strong, gleaming armor upon your bodies. (KUMB: 1-30-48; NILA: 01.030.047)
[PV-SVO:01_003_174]
What offense did Mahendra commit, and what mistake did he make, O son of a Suta? How was Garuda born through the austerities of the Valakhilyas? (BORI: 1-27-1)
[PV-OTH:01_003_175]
How indeed did the king of birds become the son of the twice-born Kasyapa, and how did he become unassailable and incapable of being slain by any creature? (BORI: 1-27-2)
[PV-OTH:01_003_176]
And how did that sky-roaming creature come to move at will and possess strength at will? I wish to hear this, if it is told in the Purana. (BORI: 1-27-3)
[PV-OTH:01_003_177]
What you ask me about is a subject of the Purana. Listen, brahmin, as I tell you all of this briefly. (BORI: 1-27-4)
[PV-OTH:01_003_178]
When the progenitor Kaśyapa was performing a sacrifice in hopes of obtaining a son, the seers, gods, and Gandharvas are said to have assisted him. (BORI: 1-27-5)
[PV-OTH:01_003_179]
There Kashyapa appointed Shakra to fetch the sacrificial fuel, along with the Valakhilya sages and the other hosts of gods. (BORI: 1-27-6)
[PV-OTH:01_003_180]
But mighty Śakra lifted and carried a mountain-like load of firewood proportionate to his strength, seemingly without much difficulty. (BORI: 1-27-7)
[PV-OTH:01_003_181]
Then on the road he saw tiny sages, no taller than a thumb joint, carrying together a single stalk of a palasha leaf... (BORI: 1-27-8)
[PV-OTH:01_003_182]
shrunken as though into their own limbs, without food, rich in austerity, suffering and feeble, in a cow’s hoofprint flooded with water… (BORI: 1-27-9)
[PV-OTH:01_003_183]
Filled with pride and intoxicated by his strength, Purandara laughed at them all and quickly passed on, stepping over them contemptuously. (BORI: 1-27-10)
[PV-OTH:01_003_184]
Then, overcome with rage and profoundly incensed, they undertook a great deed that struck fear into Shakra. (BORI: 1-27-11)
[PV-OTH:01_003_185]
Those Brahmins of great austerity duly offered oblations to Jātavedas with mantras of many kinds. Hear the desire with which they did so: (BORI: 1-27-12)
[PV-OTH:01_003_186]
Strict in their vows, with the wish: “May there be another Indra for all the gods, powerful at will, able to go wherever he wishes, and a source of fear to the king of the gods—” (BORI: 1-27-13)
[PV-OTH:01_003_187]
“May one who is a hundred times greater than Indra in valor and might, swift as thought and formidable, be born today as the fruit of our austerities.” (BORI: 1-27-14)
[PV-OTH:01_003_188]
Learning of this, the deeply distressed king of the gods, Śatakratu, sought refuge with Kaśyapa, who was steadfast in his vows. (BORI: 1-27-15)
[PV-OTH:01_003_189]
Having heard Indra’s account, Kashyapa, the Prajapati, approached the Valakhilyas and asked whether their undertaking had succeeded. (BORI: 1-27-16)
[PV-OTH:01_003_190]
“So be it,” those truth-speaking sages replied to him. Then Kaśyapa Prajāpati addressed them with these conciliatory words: (BORI: 1-27-17)
[PV-OTH:01_003_191]
This Indra was appointed over the three worlds at Brahmā’s command, while you too, rich in austerity, have been striving with an Indra as your aim. (BORI: 1-27-18)
[PV-OTH:01_003_192]
O best of men, you must not make Brahmā’s word false; and I wish this resolve of yours not to prove false either. (BORI: 1-27-19)
[PV-OTH:01_003_193]
Let this exceedingly strong and mighty one become king of the birds, and let this favor also be granted to the king of the gods, who asks it. (BORI: 1-27-20)
[PV-OTH:01_003_194]
Thus addressed by Kaśyapa, the Vālakhilyas, rich in ascetic power, duly honored the eminent sage and Prajāpati and replied: (BORI: 1-27-21)
[PV-OTH:01_003_195]
This undertaking of ours is for the sake of Indra, Prajapati, while this undertaking of yours is intended to obtain offspring. (BORI: 1-27-22)
[PV-OTH:01_003_196]
Therefore, please accept this undertaking of ours and bring it to fruition; and arrange matters here as you see fit for our welfare. (BORI: 1-27-23)
[PV-OTH:01_003_197]
At that very time, however, the auspicious daughter of Daksha, the blessed and renowned Vinata, longing for a son... (BORI: 1-27-24)
[PV-OTH:01_003_198]
Devoted to her vow, she practiced austerities; then, purified by bathing after the rite for conceiving a son, she approached her husband. Kashyapa then said to her: (BORI: 1-27-25)
[PV-OTH:01_003_199]
Your undertaking will bear fruit, O goddess, and your desire will be fulfilled. You will give birth to two heroic sons, lords of the three worlds. (BORI: 1-27-26)
[PV-OTH:01_003_200]
Born through the austerities of the Vālakhilyas and also from my resolve, your two illustrious sons will be revered by the world. (BORI: 1-27-27)
[PV-OTH:01_003_201]
And the blessed son of Marīci said to her once more, “Guard this most auspicious pregnancy with the utmost care.” (BORI: 1-27-28)
[PV-OTH:01_003_202]
One will rule over all winged creatures—a heroic bird, honored throughout the world and able to exert his power at will. (BORI: 1-27-29)
[PV-OTH:01_003_203]
Then Prajāpati, well pleased, said to Śatakratu, “These two brother birds will become your allies.” (BORI: 1-27-30)
[PV-OTH:01_003_204]
These two will pose no threat to you, Purandara. Let your anguish pass, Śakra; you alone will remain Indra. (BORI: 1-27-31)
[PV-OTH:01_003_205]
Never again should you insult those who speak of Brahman in this way, nor should you scorn them in your pride: their speech is venomous, and they are exceedingly quick to anger. (BORI: 1-27-32)
[PV-OTH:01_003_206]
Thus addressed, Indra returned to heaven, free from apprehension; and Vinata, her purpose accomplished, was joyful then. (BORI: 1-27-33)
[PV-OTH:01_003_207]
She gave birth to two sons, Aruna and Garuda. Of the two, Aruna was malformed and became the Sun’s forerunner. (BORI: 1-27-34)
[PV-OTH:01_003_208]
Garuda was consecrated as king of the birds. Hear now of this great deed of his, O descendant of Bhrigu. (BORI: 1-27-35)
[PV-OTH:01_003_209]
Supplementary Verses from Other Witnesses.
For what purpose did you undertake this sacrificial rite? Tell me exactly, for I am curious to hear. (KUMB: 1-31-17)
[PV-SVO:01_003_210]
Having been slighted by the foolish and undiscerning lord of the gods, who was drunk with the pride of sovereignty and had cast aside proper conduct... (KUMB: 1-31-18)
[PV-SVO:01_003_211]
To thwart that, O Kasyapa, his undertaking was duly begun. (KUMB: 1-31-19)
[PV-SVO:01_003_212]
Then, O best of Brahmins, when such a tumult had arisen, Garutman, king of birds, swiftly advanced toward the gods. (BORI: 1-28-1)
[PV-OTH:01_003_213]
Seeing how immensely powerful he was, they trembled on every side, and all their weapons clashed against one another. (BORI: 1-28-2)
[PV-OTH:01_003_214]
There too was Bhauvana, of immeasurable spirit and immense valor, radiant as lightning and fire, the protector of Soma. (BORI: 1-28-3)
[PV-OTH:01_003_215]
Wounded by that lord of birds with his wings, beak, and talons, he fought an incomparable battle for a time before being slain in combat. (BORI: 1-28-4)
[PV-OTH:01_003_216]
The sky-roaming bird stirred up a vast cloud of dust with the wind from his wings, plunging the worlds into darkness, and showered the gods with it. (BORI: 1-28-5)
[PV-OTH:01_003_217]
Showered with that dust, the gods became bewildered; obscured by the dust, the guardians of the nectar could not see him. (BORI: 1-28-6)
[PV-OTH:01_003_218]
Thus Garuda threw the heavenly realm into turmoil, and with blows from his wings and beak he tore the gods apart. (BORI: 1-28-7)
[PV-OTH:01_003_219]
Then the thousand-eyed god swiftly commanded Vāyu: “Disperse this cloud of dust; this is your task, Māruta.” (BORI: 1-28-8)
[PV-OTH:01_003_220]
Then the mighty wind swiftly swept away that cloud of dust. When the darkness had cleared, the gods attacked the bird. (BORI: 1-28-9)
[PV-OTH:01_003_221]
As the hosts of gods struck him, the mighty bird, whose cry was like the roar of a great cloud, shrieked loudly, terrifying all creatures. Then the valiant king of birds, the slayer of enemy heroes, soared upward. (BORI: 1-28-10)
[PV-OTH:01_003_222]
As he soared into the sky and hovered above the gods, all the armored gods showered him with various weapons. (BORI: 1-28-11)
[PV-OTH:01_003_223]
with spears, iron clubs, tridents, and maces, together with Indra, as well as with blazing, razor-edged discus-like weapons resembling the sun… (BORI: 1-28-12)
[PV-OTH:01_003_224]
Though assailed on every side by volleys of many kinds of weapons, the king of birds fought a tremendously fierce battle and did not falter. (BORI: 1-28-13)
[PV-OTH:01_003_225]
Roaring as though he filled the sky, the mighty son of Vinatā scattered the gods in every direction with his wings and breast. (BORI: 1-28-14)
[PV-OTH:01_003_226]
Scattered and tormented by Garuḍa, the gods fled; wounded by his talons and beak, they streamed with blood. (BORI: 1-28-15)
[PV-OTH:01_003_227]
Assailed by the lord of birds, the Sādhyas and Gandharvas fled east, while the Vasus, together with the Rudras, fled south. (BORI: 1-28-16)
[PV-OTH:01_003_228]
The Ādityas toward the west and the Nāsatyas toward the north, looking back again and again as they fought the mighty one… (BORI: 1-28-17)
[PV-OTH:01_003_229]
The sky-roamer, with the heroic Ashvakranda, the bird Renuka, the valiant Krathana, and Tapana… (BORI: 1-28-18)
[PV-OTH:01_003_230]
He fought with Ulūka and Śvasana, with the bird Nimeṣa, and with Praruja and Praliha. (BORI: 1-28-19)
[PV-OTH:01_003_231]
The mighty son of Vinatā pierced them with the tips of his wings, claws, and beak, like the enraged wielder of Pināka at the time of the world's end. (BORI: 1-28-20)
[PV-OTH:01_003_232]
Those warriors of great strength and ardor, wounded repeatedly by him, looked like masses of storm clouds pouring down torrents of blood. (BORI: 1-28-21)
[PV-OTH:01_003_233]
Having deprived them all of life, the foremost of birds passed on in search of the nectar of immortality and saw fire everywhere— (BORI: 1-28-22)
[PV-OTH:01_003_234]
with immense flames, enveloping the sky on every side with its tongues of fire, blazing like the fierce-rayed sun, terrible and fanned by the wind… (BORI: 1-28-23)
[PV-OTH:01_003_235]
Then the mighty, great-souled Garuda made ninety times ninety mouths, drank up rivers with those mouths, and returned with the utmost speed… (BORI: 1-28-24)
[PV-OTH:01_003_236]
The winged tormentor of foes inundated that blazing fire with the rivers. Then, having extinguished the fire, he assumed another, smaller form, wishing to enter. (BORI: 1-28-25)
[PV-OTH:01_003_237]
Supplementary Verses from Other Witnesses.
touching the sky with its flames and terrifying all creatures... (KUMB: 1-32-24)
[PV-SVO:01_003_238]
Having become golden and radiant with spreading rays, the bird plunged in with force, like a torrent into the ocean. (BORI: 1-29-1)
[PV-OTH:01_003_239]
Near the amṛta, he saw an iron wheel with razor-sharp edges, constantly revolving, its rim keenly honed. (BORI: 1-29-2)
[PV-OTH:01_003_240]
that terrible device, blazing like fire and the sun, made to cut down those who would steal the Soma—exceedingly fearsome in form and skillfully fashioned by the gods. (BORI: 1-29-3)
[PV-OTH:01_003_241]
As soon as the sky-roamer saw an opening in it, he wheeled around; contracting his body, he darted through the gap between the spokes in an instant. (BORI: 1-29-4)
[PV-OTH:01_003_242]
And there beneath the wheel, radiant as blazing fire, with tongues like lightning, exceedingly terrible, their mouths and eyes ablaze... (BORI: 1-29-5)
[PV-OTH:01_003_243]
He saw two foremost serpents, whose gaze was venomous, immensely powerful, ever enraged and swift, stationed solely to guard the nectar. (BORI: 1-29-6)
[PV-OTH:01_003_244]
Their eyes were always inflamed with rage, and they never blinked. Anyone whom either of them looked upon would instantly be reduced to ashes. (BORI: 1-29-7)
[PV-OTH:01_003_245]
Suparna quickly covered both their eyes with dust and, remaining unseen, assailed the two of them from every side. (BORI: 1-29-8)
[PV-OTH:01_003_246]
Vainateya, the sky-roamer, pounced upon their bodies and swiftly cut the two in half; then he rushed toward the Soma. (BORI: 1-29-9)
[PV-OTH:01_003_247]
Then mighty Vainateya tore away the amrita and swiftly soared upward, the powerful one having smashed the mechanism. (BORI: 1-29-10)
[PV-OTH:01_003_248]
Without drinking the nectar, the mighty bird quickly seized it and flew off unwearied, obscuring the sun’s radiance. (BORI: 1-29-11)
[PV-OTH:01_003_249]
Then Vainateya met Vishnu in the sky. Pleased with him for that act of self-restraint, Narayana… (BORI: 1-29-12)
[PV-OTH:01_003_250]
The imperishable god said to the sky-roamer, “I am ready to grant you a boon.” The airborne one asked, “May I stand above you.” (BORI: 1-29-13)
[PV-OTH:01_003_251]
He then spoke these further words to Narayana: “May I remain ageless and immortal even without the nectar.” (BORI: 1-29-14)
[PV-OTH:01_003_252]
Having accepted those two boons, Garuda said to Vishnu, “I shall grant you a boon as well; let the Lord also choose one.” (BORI: 1-29-15)
[PV-OTH:01_003_253]
Krishna chose the mighty Garutman as his mount, and the Lord also made him his banner, saying, “You shall stand above me.” (BORI: 1-29-16)
[PV-OTH:01_003_254]
But Indra pursued the bird and struck him on the body with his thunderbolt as the winged enemy of the gods carried off the nectar by force. (BORI: 1-29-17)
[PV-OTH:01_003_255]
Though struck thus by the thunderbolt, Garuda, foremost of flying creatures, laughed and addressed Indra in the midst of the battle in a gentle voice: (BORI: 1-29-18)
[PV-OTH:01_003_256]
I shall honor the sage from whose bones the thunderbolt was made, as well as the thunderbolt and you, O Shatakratu. (BORI: 1-29-19)
[PV-OTH:01_003_257]
I shall cast off this single feather, whose end you will not be able to find; for the thunderbolt’s strike can never cause me pain. (BORI: 1-29-20)
[PV-OTH:01_003_258]
Then all the creatures there, astonished at the beautiful feather, said, “Let him be Suparṇa.” (BORI: 1-29-21)
[PV-OTH:01_003_259]
Seeing that marvel, the thousand-eyed Purandara thought, “This bird is a mighty being,” and addressed him. (BORI: 1-29-22)
[PV-OTH:01_003_260]
I wish to know your supreme, unsurpassed strength, and I desire everlasting friendship with you, best of birds. (BORI: 1-29-23)
[PV-OTH:01_003_261]
Supplementary Verses from Other Witnesses.
Seeing the two of them, Vinata’s son was suddenly overcome with dismay. “How can these two mighty devourers of Hari be defeated?” Thinking thus, Garuda quickly drove them away. (KUMB: 1-33-8; KUMB: 1-33-9)
[PV-SVO:01_003_262]
“So be it,” Vishnu said to Vinata’s son. (KUMB: 1-33-16; NILA: 01.033.015)
[PV-SVO:01_003_263]
After saying, “So be it,” to the god Narayana, the immensely swift bird sped away with great force, rivaling the wind. (KUMB: 1-33-18; KUMB: 1-33-19; NILA: 01.033.017; NILA: 01.033.018)
[PV-SVO:01_003_264]
Having said this, the king of birds then released his son. Seeing the matchless feather he had shed… (KUMB: 1-33-23; KUMB: 1-33-24; NILA: 01.033.022; NILA: 01.033.023)
[PV-SVO:01_003_265]
Let there be friendship between us, god, as you wish, O Purandara. But know that my strength is great and truly irresistible. (BORI: 1-30-1)
[PV-OTH:01_003_266]
It is true, O Shatakratu, that good men do not approve of praising one’s own strength or recounting one’s virtues oneself. (BORI: 1-30-2)
[PV-OTH:01_003_267]
But since you have treated me as a friend and asked me, my friend, I shall tell you. For one should not speak in self-praise without cause. (BORI: 1-30-3)
[PV-OTH:01_003_268]
This earth with its mountains, forests, and oceans, O Shakra, and you too clinging to a single quill of my wing... (BORI: 1-30-4)
[PV-OTH:01_003_269]
I could even carry all the worlds gathered together, with everything stationary and moving, without growing weary. Know that such is my great strength. (BORI: 1-30-5)
[PV-OTH:01_003_270]
O Shaunaka, the diademed Indra, foremost of the illustrious, lord and benefactor of all beings, said to the hero who had spoken these words: (BORI: 1-30-6)
[PV-OTH:01_003_271]
Accept now the highest, everlasting friendship with me. You have no need of the Soma; let it be given to me, for those to whom you might give it would oppress us. (BORI: 1-30-7)
[PV-OTH:01_003_272]
I am taking this Soma for a particular purpose. I will not allow anyone at all to seize it. (BORI: 1-30-8)
[PV-OTH:01_003_273]
But once I have set it down somewhere myself, O Thousand-Eyed One, you may swiftly take it from there and carry it away, Lord of the Gods. (BORI: 1-30-9)
[PV-OTH:01_003_274]
I am pleased by what you have said here, O bird. Choose from me whatever boon you desire, best of birds. (BORI: 1-30-10)
[PV-OTH:01_003_275]
Thus addressed, he replied as follows, remembering Kadru’s sons and the deceit that had caused his mother’s enslavement: (BORI: 1-30-11)
[PV-OTH:01_003_276]
I too am master of all, but I will grant your request. O Shakra, let the mighty serpents become my food. (BORI: 1-30-12)
[PV-OTH:01_003_277]
Saying, “So be it,” the slayer of the Danavas then followed him, having told him, “I will take away the Soma once it has been set down.” (BORI: 1-30-13)
[PV-OTH:01_003_278]
Then Suparna swiftly came to his mother. Appearing greatly delighted, he addressed all the serpents as follows: (BORI: 1-30-14)
[PV-OTH:01_003_279]
Here is the nectar I have brought. I shall place it for you on the kuśa grass. After bathing and performing the auspicious rites, partake of it, O serpents. (BORI: 1-30-15)
[PV-OTH:01_003_280]
And from this day forward, let this mother of mine no longer be a slave. I have fulfilled these words of yours just as you stated them. (BORI: 1-30-16)
[PV-OTH:01_003_281]
Then the snakes went to bathe, replying to him, “So be it.” Meanwhile, Śakra seized the nectar and returned to heaven. (BORI: 1-30-17)
[PV-OTH:01_003_282]
Then the snakes, eager for the soma, returned to that place, having bathed, recited their prayers, and performed auspicious rites, full of joy. (BORI: 1-30-18)
[PV-OTH:01_003_283]
Realizing that it had been taken away by a counter-ruse, the snakes then licked the darbha grass, thinking, “This is where the Soma was.” (BORI: 1-30-19)
[PV-OTH:01_003_284]
As a result of that act, the snakes’ tongues became forked; and through contact with the nectar of immortality, those blades of darbha grass became purifying. (BORI: 1-30-20)
[PV-OTH:01_003_285]
Then Suparna, greatly delighted, roamed there in the forest with his mother. The devourer of serpents, highly honored by the birds and of undiminished renown, brought joy to Vinata. (BORI: 1-30-21)
[PV-OTH:01_003_286]
A man who always listens to this tale or recites it in an assembly of eminent Brahmins will undoubtedly attain heaven and share in its merit through the celebration of the great lord of birds. (BORI: 1-30-22)
[PV-OTH:01_003_287]
Supplementary Verses from Other Witnesses.
Thus addressed, Garuḍa replied to the lord of Śacī: (KUMB: 1-34-1)
[PV-SVO:01_003_288]
Unsolicited praise immediately incurs censure, O best of the gods, as does the recounting of virtues by another when asked, O lord of cattle. (KUMB: 1-34-2; KUMB: 1-34-3)
[PV-SVO:01_003_289]
It is indeed just as you have said; all this may be expected of you. (KUMB: 1-34-8; NILA: 01.034.007)
[PV-SVO:01_003_290]
the great-souled Hari, God of gods and Lord of yogins… (KUMB: 1-34-15; NILA: 01.034.014)
[PV-SVO:01_003_291]
He assented to the proposal exactly as Garuda had stated it. Then the Blessed Lord, ruler of the gods, spoke these further words. (KUMB: 1-34-16; NILA: 01.034.015)
[PV-SVO:01_003_292]
Bowing respectfully, he said, “I have brought this nectar from the abode of the gods.” (KUMB: 1-34-18)
[PV-SVO:01_003_293]
“Command me, Mother. What shall I do now, you of holy vows?” “I am pleased with this deed of yours, my son.” (KUMB: 1-34-19; KUMB: 1-34-19क्ष्)
[PV-SVO:01_003_294]
Be ageless and unburdened, and greatly beloved of the gods. (KUMB: 1-34-20)
[PV-SVO:01_003_295]
Those words that you spoke then while sitting here… (KUMB: 1-34-21; NILA: 01.034.018)
[PV-SVO:01_003_296]
At odds with one another over drinking the Soma, they cried, “I first! I first!” and rushed forward. (KUMB: 1-34-25)
[PV-SVO:01_003_297]
to where this nectar too had been placed on a bed of kuśa grass. (KUMB: 1-34-26; NILA: 01.034.022)
[PV-SVO:01_003_298]
Then the Nagas, finding themselves deceived, released Vinata and, through Garuda’s might, fell into deep despair, O lord. (KUMB: 1-34-28)
[PV-SVO:01_003_299]
Thus the nectar was seized and brought by him, and the great-souled Garuda caused the serpents to have forked tongues. (KUMB: 1-34-29; NILA: 01.034.024)
[PV-SVO:01_003_300]
Long ago, in the age of the gods, O Brahmin, there were two sisters, auspicious daughters of Prajapati, endowed with wondrous beauty and free from fault. (BORI: 1-14-5)
[PV-OTH:01_003_493]
Those two, Kadru and Vinata, were Kasyapa’s wives. Pleased and filled with the greatest joy, their husband Kasyapa, equal to Prajapati, granted a boon to his two lawful wives. (BORI: 1-14-6)
[PV-OTH:01_003_494]