Garuda Purana – Chapter 2: The Journey After Death

The Journey After Death

In the previous chapter, Garuda had asked Lord Vishnu questions about the mysteries of life and death. Lord Vishnu, quenching Garuda's curiosity, explained that death is merely a pause, not an end. Now, I will tell you about the journey after death, which takes the soul to the next birth. This path is filled with suffering and experiences, and it all depends on the fruits of one's actions (karma).

The Soul's Departure from the Body

Just as light dims when the sun sets, so does the flame of life begin to depart from the body when the time of death arrives. The vital breaths (prana) weaken, the senses become inactive, and the body becomes merely a lifeless shell. At that moment, the soul assumes a subtle body, which carries the burden of its deeds. This sight is extremely terrifying, especially for those who were entangled in worldly attachments throughout their lives. They grieve the separation from their loved ones and are also tormented by the fear of the unknown future. It is as if a bird is preparing to fly out of its cage but does not know how to fly.

“Where am I going? What is this darkness? Why can't my loved ones see me?” the soul laments in distress, but its voice is unheard by anyone. Its actions, clinging to it like a shadow, compel it to proceed on its onward journey.

The Arrival and Guidance of Yamadootas

As soon as the soul departs from the body, Yamadootas (messengers of Yama, the god of death) come to take it. The form of Yamadootas varies according to one's deeds. For virtuous souls, divine-looking Yamadootas lead them on a pleasant path, while for sinners, Yamadootas with terrifying faces drag them painfully towards Yamaloka (the abode of Yama). This journey is extremely arduous, during which the soul faces various kinds of suffering. On the way, it sees the flames of hellfire and is terrified by the consequences of its sins.

For devotees who remember the name of Lord Vishnu, the situation is different. For them, Yamadootas also arrive as servants of the Lord and escort them respectfully to Yamaloka. Vishnu devotees know that this body is mortal, and true life lies in devotion to the Lord. Therefore, they remain free from the fear of death and peacefully embark on their final journey.

Punishment for Sins and Torments

In Yamaloka, Yamaraja reviews the deeds of each soul. Dharmaraja Chitragupta keeps an account of all good and bad deeds. Those who have performed good deeds in life are shown the path to heaven, where they experience happiness and peace. But those who have committed sins have to endure torments in hell. These torments correspond to the sins committed on Earth. Liars are thrown into boiling oil, thieves are whipped, and those who cause suffering to others are tortured with terrible instruments. These torments are meant to purify the soul so that it can live a better life in the next birth. The fruits of one's actions are inevitable, whether good or bad. The soul attains its destination according to its deeds.

The Importance of Shraddha for Ancestors

Hearing the description of the journey to Yamaloka, Garuda became distressed. He asked Lord Vishnu, “O Lord! Is there any way to escape this arduous journey?” Lord Vishnu replied, “Shraddha and Tarpan are the means by which peace is attained by the Pitrs (deceased ancestors), and they can be freed from the torments of Yamaloka. In the next chapter, I will explain in detail the importance and method of Shraddha rituals, so that you can perform appropriate actions for the welfare of the departed.”