Garuda Purana – Chapter 5: Moksha and Devotion

Moksha and Devotion

In the previous chapter, we understood the unbreakable bond of reincarnation and karma. We learned how our actions shape our future. Now, we move towards the ultimate goal that liberates us from these bonds – Moksha. Garuda Ji expressed a strong desire to know this supreme truth from Lord Vishnu, and Lord Vishnu began to impart further knowledge to him.

The Path to Attaining Moksha

Lord Vishnu, seated on Mandara Mountain, had a radiant face that was a abode of infinite peace. A golden aura spread around Him, generating even more curiosity and reverence in Garuda Ji's heart. Folding his hands, Garuda Ji prayed to Lord Vishnu to reveal the simple means of attaining Moksha. His heart was restless with a thirst for knowledge. He wished to know the path to liberation from the sorrows of the world.

Lord Vishnu said in a grave voice, "O Garuda! There are many paths to attain Moksha, but among them, devotion is the simplest and the best. Moksha can also be attained through karma, knowledge, and yoga, but in Kali Yuga, devotion is the easiest way." He further said, "Become absorbed in Me with your mind, speech, and actions. Dedicate all your actions to Me. This will open the door to Moksha. True devotion is that which is selfless and full of love." Garuda Ji carefully imprinted Lord Vishnu's words in his heart.

The Importance of Vishnu Devotion

Lord Vishnu further explained the importance of Vishnu devotion. He said that Vishnu devotion purifies the mind and removes worldly attachments. Those devotees who are absorbed in Vishnu devotion attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Giving examples, he said that devotees like Prahlada, Dhruva, and Meera attained God and achieved Moksha solely through the power of devotion. Prahlada's unwavering devotion saved him from a powerful demon like Hiranyakashipu, and pleased by Dhruva's penance, God granted him an immortal status. Meera's devotion liberated her from worldly bonds.

Lord Vishnu explained, "Whoever chants 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya' finds all their sufferings removed. The essence of all the Vedas is contained within this mantra." He further said, "By merely chanting My name, sins are destroyed, and love is infused in the heart." Garuda Ji felt blessed upon hearing these nectar-like words emanating from Lord Vishnu's mouth. The feeling of devotion in his heart deepened further. He now clearly understood that Vishnu devotion is the sole and simple path to Moksha.

The Ultimate Fruit of Knowledge

Finally, Lord Vishnu said, "O Garuda! The ultimate fruit of knowledge is Moksha, and the path to Moksha lies through love and devotion. Whoever has embraced love and devotion in their life has attained everything." He further said that this knowledge is confidential and should only be given to those who are worthy of it. Lord Vishnu blessed Garuda Ji that he would spread this knowledge in the world so that all humans could walk on the path of Moksha. Thus, this chapter of the Garuda Purana establishes the importance of Moksha and devotion.