Garuda Myth & Origins: Kashyapa, Vinata, the Amrita Quest, and Its Role in Thai Culture

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Beliefs and Faith › Garuda Myth & Origins: Kashyapa, Vinata, the Amrita Quest, and Its Role in Thai Culture

History and Legend of the Birth of Garuda

 

Garuda is a significant semi-divine creature in Hinduism mythology and has been widely revered in Thai culture, both as a symbol of royal authority and in religion.

Origin of Garuda

 

 

Sage Kashyapa (King Dasharatha) and His Two Wives

 

• Sage Kashyapa: In Hindu mythology, Sage Kashyapa is one of the great sages, a son of Brahma, and considered the progenitor of all beings, including gods, demons, humans, nagas, Garuda, and various creatures. In Thai context, he is sometimes associated or compared with King Dasharatha (father of Rama in the Ramayana), symbolizing his importance as a progenitor.
• Vinata (Wimada/Tasi): One of Kashyapa’s many consorts. She is the mother of Garuda and Aruna (the charioteer of the Sun God), known for her virtuous character but suffered due to a gambling loss.
• Kadru (Katree): Another wife of Sage Kashyapa and mother of all nagas (serpent beings), characterized by cunning and deceit, which became the root of conflicts.

 

 

The Gambling and Its Consequences

 

• The gambling about the color of the celestial horse Uchchaihshravas was the root of the conflict. Vinata believed the horse was pure white, but Kadru tricked her by commanding her naga sons to turn into black hairs on the horse, causing Vinata to lose the bet.
• As a consequence of losing, Vinata and her son Aruna became slaves to Kadru and the nagas, enduring long suffering under their service.

 

 

The Conception and Birth of Garuda

 

• Through the spiritual power of Sage Kashyapa and the devoted austerity of Vinata, Garuda was conceived in her womb.
• Unlike human births, when it was time for Garuda's birth, he emerged radiating brilliant light and immense power. His vast body caused the earth to shake, astonishing gods and sages alike.
• Some legends describe Garuda as having a half-human, half-eagle form, with a strong beak and talons, massive wings capable of stirring storms, and possessing extraordinary strength.

 

 

Realization of His Mother's Suffering and the Decision to Help

 

• As Garuda grew up and learned of his mother’s miserable enslavement, deep filial devotion and rage stirred within him.
• Garuda resolutely decided to free his mother from her bondage, no matter the dangers or challenges he would have to face.

 

 

 

The Journey to Seize the Amrita (Elixir of Immortality)

 

• The nagas stipulated that to liberate his mother, Garuda must bring the Amrita (elixir of immortality) from the heavens.
• Thus, Garuda embarked on a perilous journey to seize the Amrita, facing fierce guardians, including the thunderbolt-wielding god Indra.
• Using his unparalleled strength and power, Garuda overcame all obstacles and successfully retrieved the Amrita.

 

 

The Agreement and the Nagas' Deception

 

• Upon bringing the Amrita, the nagas tricked Garuda by requesting him to place it on the ground while they performed a ritual. As soon as he did, they rushed to drink it before Garuda could properly free his mother.
• However, by the divine intervention of Vishnu or the sacred power of the Amrita, the nagas only managed to taste it partially. Consequently, their tongues were split by sharp grass, resulting in the forked tongues of nagas seen today (according to some legends).

 

 

Receiving Blessings and Becoming Vishnu's Mount

 

• Impressed by Garuda's bravery, devotion, and power, Vishnu blessed him with immortality without needing to drink the Amrita and granted him the right to prey upon nagas.
• Moreover, Vishnu chose Garuda as his mount, highlighting Garuda’s supreme importance in cosmic order.

 

 

Role and Belief in Thai Culture

 

• In Thai culture, Garuda is not merely a mythological creature but is revered as a symbol of the monarchy and state authority, appearing in the national emblem, historical flags, and emblems of various government institutions.
• Belief in Garuda’s protective power against dangers, evils, and black magic is deeply rooted in Thai society, making Garuda statues and images highly popular for worship.
• Garuda is also regarded as a symbol of prosperity, rank, prestige, and loyalty.
  
  
  
  
  
   

 

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