Puranas

Dharmo rakshati rakshitah (Dharma protects those who protect it)

The PuranasA compact, English-only version of the Major 18 Puranas in one document(overview of 18 Upa-Puranas, and 28 additional Puranas - TBD)

Issue 1, Draft 1

Compiled by the Dharmic Scriptures Team October 3, 2002

Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) Rg Veda

Vishva Dharma ki Jay! (Victory to Universal Dharma!)

Index:INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................................26 SOURCES: ...........................................................................................................................................................27 1 BRAHMA PURANA............................................................................................................................................28 1.1 LORD BRAHMA...................................................................................................................................................28 1.1.1 A Profile of Brahmaji..............................................................................................................................28 1.1.2 Scriptural Appearance of Brahmaji........................................................................................................28 1.1.3 Four Heads of Brahmaji.........................................................................................................................28 1.1.4 White Beard of Brahmaji........................................................................................................................28 1.1.5 Swan as a Vehicle.................................................................................................................................28 1.1.6 Purpose of Holding Vedas.....................................................................................................................29 1.1.7 Rosary in Second Hand.........................................................................................................................29 1.1.8 Kamandalu (Coconut Shell Bowl)..........................................................................................................29 1.1.9 Seat of the Lotus...................................................................................................................................29 1.2 GODDESS SARASVATI..........................................................................................................................................29 1.2.1 Appearance of Sarasvati.......................................................................................................................29 1.2.2 Significance of Book and Veena (Lyre).................................................................................................30 1.2.3 Beaded Rosary......................................................................................................................................30 1.3 LORD VISHNU....................................................................................................................................................30 1.3.1 Appearance of Lord Vishnu...................................................................................................................30 1.3.2 Reflection of Scriptural Appearance......................................................................................................30 1.3.3 Scientific Depiction of Vishnus Appearance..........................................................................................30 1.3.4 Why does Lord Vishnu rest on Sheshanaga?........................................................................................31 1.3.5 Why is Lotus in the Navel?....................................................................................................................31 1.3.6 Why does Vishnu stay in the Sea of Milk?.............................................................................................31 1.3.7 Reason for holding the Wheel...............................................................................................................31 1.3.8 Reason for holding the Conch...............................................................................................................31 1.3.9 Purpose of Kaustubhamani...................................................................................................................31 1.3.10 Why does Lord Vishnu hold a Mace?..................................................................................................32 1.3.11 Why is Garuda (Eagle) the Vehicle of Vishnu?....................................................................................32 1.4 GODDESS LAXMI................................................................................................................................................32 1.4.1 Why Goddess Laxmi presses the feet of God?.....................................................................................32 1.4.2 Reason for Liquidity of Laxmi................................................................................................................32 1.4.3 Why is the owl the vehicle of Laxmi?.....................................................................................................32 2 PADMA PURANA...............................................................................................................................................33 2.1 SHRISHTIKHAND..................................................................................................................................................33 2.1.1 The Beginning of Creation.....................................................................................................................33 2.1.2 Lord Brahmas Life-Span and the Chronological Order of the Eras.....................................................34 2.1.3 The Four Prominent Castes...................................................................................................................35 2.1.4 The Manifestations of Goddess Laxmi..................................................................................................35 2.1.5 Sati gives up her Life.............................................................................................................................36 2.1.6 The Origin of Deities, Demons and Serpents........................................................................................36 2.1.7 The Origin of Marudganas.....................................................................................................................37 2.1.8 King Prithu and the Surya Dynasty........................................................................................................38 2.1.9 Bashkali, the Demon king......................................................................................................................39 2.1.10 Sri Ram kills Shambuk.........................................................................................................................40 2.1.11 Manifestation of Ganesh & Kartikeya..................................................................................................40 2.1.12 An Ideal Brahmin and the Significance of the Gayatri Mantra.............................................................41 2.1.13 A Brahmins Livelihood........................................................................................................................42 2.1.14 Narottam The Brahmin.....................................................................................................................42 2.1.15 The Significance of Rudraksha, Amla & Tulsi......................................................................................44 2.1.16 The Importance of Suryas Worship....................................................................................................44 2.2 BHUMIKHAND.....................................................................................................................................................44 2.2.1 Different Types of Sin and Virtue...........................................................................................................44 2.2.2 King Yayati propagates Vaishnava-Dharma..........................................................................................45Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) Rg Veda


2.2.3 Yayati marries Ashrubindumati..............................................................................................................45 2.2.4 Kunjal The Enlightened Parrot............................................................................................................46 2.2.5 Kunjal Preaches Vijjwal.........................................................................................................................46 2.2.6 Kunjal Narrates about his Previous Birth...............................................................................................47 2.3 SWARGAKHAND..................................................................................................................................................47 2.3.1 Some Prominent Holy Places in Bharat-Varsha....................................................................................47 2.3.2 Jambubarg, River Narmada, Amarkantak..............................................................................................48 2.3.3 Dharma-Teertha & Yamuna-Snan.......................................................................................................48 2.3.4 Kashipuri, Kapardishwar & Gaya...........................................................................................................49 2.3.5 Puranas The Embodiment of Sri Hari.................................................................................................49 2.4 PATALKHAND.....................................................................................................................................................49 2.4.1 Sheshnag narrates the Tales of Sri Ramas Return from Lanka............................................................49 2.4.2 Ravana The Mighty Demon................................................................................................................50 2.4.3 Agastya Advises Sri Rama to Perform Ashvamedhya Yagya................................................................51 2.4.4 The Horse is Let Loose..........................................................................................................................51 2.4.5 Lav Fastens the Horse...........................................................................................................................51 2.4.6 Lav Vanquishes the Whole Army...........................................................................................................51 2.4.7 Lav Becomes Unconscious...................................................................................................................51 2.4.8 The Army Returns to Ayodhya...............................................................................................................52 2.4.9 Sri Rama sends Laxman to bring Sita...................................................................................................52 2.4.10 Sita Returns to Ayodhya......................................................................................................................52 2.5 UTTARKHAND.....................................................................................................................................................53 2.5.1 Badrik-Ashram.......................................................................................................................................53 2.5.2 The Descent of River Ganga.................................................................................................................53 2.5.3 Dasharatha Pacifies Shani....................................................................................................................53 2.5.4 Qualities of a Vaishnava........................................................................................................................53 2.5.5 Indraprastha..........................................................................................................................................54 2.5.6 Vaikunth The Abode of Lord Vishnu...................................................................................................54 2.5.7 The Incarnations of Matsya and Kurma.................................................................................................54 2.5.8 NriSimha Incarnation.............................................................................................................................55 2.5.9 Vaman Incarnation................................................................................................................................55 2.5.10 Sri Ramas Birth...................................................................................................................................56 2.5.11 Sri Rama Grows Up.............................................................................................................................56 2.5.12 Sri Ramas Exile..................................................................................................................................57 2.5.13 Sri Ramas Coronation.........................................................................................................................57 2.5.14 Sri Krshna............................................................................................................................................58 2.5.15 Killing of Kansa....................................................................................................................................59 2.5.16 Jarasandh............................................................................................................................................60 2.5.17 Abduction of Rukmini...........................................................................................................................60 2.5.18 Sri Krshnas Queens............................................................................................................................61 2.5.19 Anirudha Marries Usha........................................................................................................................61 2.5.20 The Decline of the Yadu Dynasty........................................................................................................62 2.5.21 Rituals of Vishnu Worship....................................................................................................................63 2.5.22 Lord Vishnu The Almighty God.........................................................................................................64 2.5.23 Parashuram ........................................................................................................................................64 3 VISHNU PURANA...............................................................................................................................................66 3.1 CHAPTER 1 (PART 1).........................................................................................................................................67 3.1.1 Introduction and Origin of the Universe from Basic Elements................................................................67 3.1.2 Birth of Brahma and Salvation of Earth by Varaha................................................................................68 3.1.3 Divisions of Earth and Origin of Cereals................................................................................................69 3.1.4 Birth of Prajapatis and their Progeny.....................................................................................................69 3.1.5 Creation of Rudra and Omnipresence of Laxmi.....................................................................................70 3.1.6 Dhruvs Migration to the Forest..............................................................................................................71 3.1.7 Dhruv Pleases God with his Penance...................................................................................................72 3.1.8 Tale of King Ven and Prithu...................................................................................................................73 3.1.9 Birth of Prachin Barhi Worship of God by Prachetas.............................................................................75 3.1.10 Marriage of Prachetas and Birth of Prajapatis.....................................................................................75 3.1.11 Tale of Prahlad and Narasimha Incarnation........................................................................................77 3.1.12 Attempts to Kill Prahlad.......................................................................................................................79 3.1.13 Description of Lords Virtues by Prahlad and Protection of Prahlad by Sudarshan Chakra.................79Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) Rg Veda


3.1.14 Appearance of the Lord.......................................................................................................................80 3.1.15 Lineage of Kashyaps Other Wives and Origin of Marudgana.............................................................80 3.1.16 The Description of Universal Order.....................................................................................................81 3.2 CHAPTER 2 (PART 2).........................................................................................................................................82 3.2.1 Description of Priyavrats Lineage.........................................................................................................82 3.2.2 Geographical Description......................................................................................................................82 3.2.3 Division of Bharat and Other Landmasses............................................................................................83 3.2.4 Description of Other Dvipas...................................................................................................................83 3.2.5 Description of the Nether Worlds...........................................................................................................84 3.2.6 Description of Hells................................................................................................................................85 3.2.7 Description of Celestial Worlds..............................................................................................................85 3.2.8 Order of the Sun, the Stars and other Constellations............................................................................85 3.2.9 Twelve Names of the Sun......................................................................................................................86 3.2.10 Description of Surya Shakti and Vaishnava Shakti..............................................................................87 3.2.11 Description of the Nine Planets...........................................................................................................88 3.2.12 Life Sketch of Bharat...........................................................................................................................88 3.2.13 Jadabharat Preaches the King............................................................................................................90 3.2.14 Tale of Ribhu and Nidaagh..................................................................................................................90 3.2.15 Ribhu Preaches Nidaagh.....................................................................................................................91 3.3 CHAPTER 3 (PART 3).........................................................................................................................................91 3.3.1 Description of Manvataras.....................................................................................................................91 3.3.2 Birth of Savarni Manu and Description of the Next Manvataras............................................................92 3.3.3 Description of Veda Vyasa and the Significance of BrahmaGyana.......................................................93 3.3.4 Expansion of the Branches of the Rg Veda...........................................................................................93 3.3.5 Description of the Branches of the Yajur Veda......................................................................................94 3.3.6 The Branches of the Sama Veda and the 18 Puranas..........................................................................94 3.3.7 Yama Gita..............................................................................................................................................94 3.3.8 Duties of Four Classes of Society..........................................................................................................95 3.3.9 Description of Different Ashrams...........................................................................................................95 3.3.10 Customs and Consecrations................................................................................................................96 3.3.11 Description of Righteousness..............................................................................................................96 3.3.12 Sanctification after Birth and Death.....................................................................................................97 3.3.13 Days for Monthly Oblations..................................................................................................................97 3.3.14 Method for Oblations...........................................................................................................................97 3.3.15 Dos and Dont during Oblation............................................................................................................98 3.3.16 The Battle of Gods and Demons.........................................................................................................98 3.3.17 Dialogue of Mayamoha with Demons..................................................................................................98 3.4 CHAPTER 4 (PART 4).........................................................................................................................................99 3.4.1 Description of Vaivasvat Manus Lineage..............................................................................................99 3.4.2 Description of Ikshvakus Lineage.......................................................................................................100 3.4.3 Progeny of Mandhatr, Ascend of Trishanku to Heaven and Birth of Sagar..........................................102 3.4.4 Description of Suryavansh...................................................................................................................103 3.4.5 Tale of Nimi and Description of his Lineage........................................................................................104 3.4.6 Description of Somavansh and the Tale of Pururava..........................................................................105 3.4.7 Birth of Jamadagni and Vishwamitra...................................................................................................106 3.4.8 Description of Kashyavansh................................................................................................................106 3.4.9 Description of King Raji and his Sons..................................................................................................107 3.4.10 Tale of Yayati.....................................................................................................................................107 3.4.11 Description of Yaduvansh and the Tale of SahastrArjuna.................................................................107 3.4.12 Description of Kroshtuvansh..............................................................................................................108 3.5 CHAPTER 5 (PART 5).......................................................................................................................................108 3.5.1 Puruvansh...........................................................................................................................................108 3.5.2 Description of Kuruvansh.....................................................................................................................109 3.5.3 Incarnation of Lord Krshna..................................................................................................................110 3.5.4 Appearance of Lord in Devakis Womb...............................................................................................111 3.5.5 Killing of Putana and Salvation of other Demons.................................................................................112 3.5.6 The Sages Curse Yaduvanshis...........................................................................................................138 3.6 CHAPTER 6 (PART 6).......................................................................................................................................140 3.6.1 Descriptions of Dynasties in Kali-Yuga................................................................................................140 4 SKANDA PURANA...........................................................................................................................................142Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) Rg Veda


4.1 MAHESHWAR KHAND.........................................................................................................................................142 4.1.1 Dakshas Animosity towards Lord Shiva..............................................................................................142 4.1.2 Sati jumps into the Sacrificial Fire........................................................................................................142 4.1.3 Virtues of Worshipping Lord Shiva......................................................................................................143 4.1.4 Churning of the Ocean........................................................................................................................143 4.1.5 The Emergence of Ambrosia...............................................................................................................144 4.1.6 Lord Brahmas Boon to Tarakasur.......................................................................................................144 4.1.7 Shiva tests Parvatis Devotion.............................................................................................................144 4.1.8 The Arrival of the Sapta-Rishis............................................................................................................145 4.1.9 Birth of Kartikeya.................................................................................................................................145 4.1.10 Kartikeya Kills Tarakasur...................................................................................................................146 4.1.11 Virtues of Observing a Fast on Shiva-Ratri........................................................................................146 4.1.12 Kartikeyas Sorrow.............................................................................................................................147 4.1.13 Killing of Pralamb...............................................................................................................................147 4.1.14 Kaalbhitis Austere Penance..............................................................................................................147 4.1.15 Karandhams Queries........................................................................................................................148 4.1.16 Arunachal Shiva Linga.......................................................................................................................149 4.1.17 Lord Shiva The Sovereign Creator.................................................................................................149 4.1.18 Execution of Shumbh, Nishumbh and Mahishasur............................................................................150 4.1.19 Parvati Receives Arunchaleshwars Grace........................................................................................151 4.2 VAISHNAV KHAND.............................................................................................................................................151 4.2.1 Lord Varah satisfies Prithvis Curiosity................................................................................................151 4.2.2 Lord Varah Mantra...............................................................................................................................151 4.2.3 Manifestation of Padmavati.................................................................................................................152 4.2.4 Padmavati becomes Lord Haris Consort............................................................................................152 4.2.5 King Parikshit.......................................................................................................................................152 4.2.6 Krshna Teertha....................................................................................................................................153 4.2.7 Some Other Places of Pilgrimage on Venketachal Mountain..............................................................153 4.2.8 Anjanas Penance at Akash-Ganga Teertha........................................................................................154 4.2.9 Lord Vishnu Advises Lord Brahma to go to Purushottam Kshetra.......................................................154 4.2.10 Markandeya Eulogizes Vishnu..........................................................................................................154 4.2.11 Holy Places in the vicinity of Purushottam-Kshetra...........................................................................155 4.2.12 Vidyapati Eulogizes Lord NeelMadhava............................................................................................157 4.2.13 Indrayumna Leaves for Purushottam-Kshetra...................................................................................158 4.2.14 Indrayumna Reaches Ekamrachhetra...............................................................................................158 4.2.15 Indrayumna Eulogizes Lord NeelMadhava........................................................................................159 4.2.16 Narad Installs the Idol of NriSimha....................................................................................................159 4.2.17 Indrayumna Performs Ashvamedhya Yagyas....................................................................................159 4.2.18 Jaganath Idol is Carved Out..............................................................................................................159 4.2.19 Consecration of the Idols...................................................................................................................160 4.2.20 Rath Yatra.........................................................................................................................................161 4.2.21 Some Prominent Places of Pilgrimage..............................................................................................161 4.2.22 The Majesty of Badri-Kshetra............................................................................................................161 4.2.23 The Importance of Hindu Month, Kartik.............................................................................................162 4.2.24 The Importance of Holy Dips in Margashirsh.....................................................................................162 4.2.25 The Significance of Charity made in Vaishakh..................................................................................162 4.2.26 Ayodhyapuri.......................................................................................................................................163 4.3 BRAHM KAND..................................................................................................................................................163 4.3.1 Rameshwar Kshetra............................................................................................................................163 4.3.2 Setu Bandh..........................................................................................................................................163 4.3.3 Rameshwar Linga................................................................................................................................164 4.3.4 DharmaRanya Kshetra........................................................................................................................164 4.3.5 Loss of Moral Values in Kaliyuga.........................................................................................................165 4.3.6 The Significance of ChaturMasya Vrata..............................................................................................165 4.3.7 Importance of Abstinence during Chaturmas.......................................................................................165 4.3.8 Rituals Pertaining to Shodash Upachar...............................................................................................165 4.4 KASHI KHAND..................................................................................................................................................166 4.4.1 Vidhyachal Obstructs the Path of Surya..............................................................................................166 4.4.2 Agastya orders the Vindhya Mountains to diminish their size..............................................................167 4.4.3 Kashi The Sacrosanct Place of Pilgrimage.......................................................................................167 4.4.4 Lord Kartikeya Describes the Majesty of Kashi...................................................................................167Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) Rg Veda


4.4.5 The Origin of Kashi..............................................................................................................................168 4.5 AVANTI KSHETRA KHAND...................................................................................................................................168 4.5.1 Sanat Kumar Glorifies Mahakaal Teertha............................................................................................168 4.5.2 Kapal Mochan......................................................................................................................................169 4.5.3 Various Names of Ujjainipuri...............................................................................................................169 4.5.4 The Grandeur of Avantipuri.................................................................................................................170 4.5.5 The Descent of Narmada.....................................................................................................................170 4.5.6 Narmada Marries Purukutsu................................................................................................................171 4.5.7 Manu Receives a Boon from Narmada................................................................................................171 4.5.8 Jamadagni receives Kaamdhenu........................................................................................................171 4.5.9 Description of Hell...............................................................................................................................172 4.6 NAGAR KHAND................................................................................................................................................172 4.6.1 Trishanku cursed by Vashishths Sons................................................................................................172 4.6.2 Vishwamitra Commences New Creation.............................................................................................173 4.7 PRABHAS KHAND..............................................................................................................................................173 4.7.1 Description of Puranas and Up-puranas..............................................................................................174 4.7.2 Prabhas Teertha..................................................................................................................................174 4.7.3 Somnath Linga....................................................................................................................................175 4.7.4 Different Names of Somnath...............................................................................................................175 4.7.5 Siddheshwar Linga and Siddha Linga.................................................................................................175 4.7.6 Chandra Deva Eulogizes Shiva...........................................................................................................176 4.7.7 The Significance of Getting Ones Head Tonsured..............................................................................176 4.7.8 The Emergence of Sarasvati in Prabhas Kshetra................................................................................177 4.7.9 Prabhas The Abode of Trinity Goddesses........................................................................................177 4.7.10 Dvarka Mahatmya Sages Queries to Prahlad.................................................................................178 4.7.11 The Sanctity of Dvarkapuri................................................................................................................178 5 SHIVA MAHA-PURANA...................................................................................................................................180 5.1 VIDYESHWAR SAMHITA.......................................................................................................................................181 5.1.1 Sages Enquire.....................................................................................................................................181 5.1.2 Proposition and Means........................................................................................................................181 5.1.3 Listening, Kirtan, Contemplation..........................................................................................................182 5.1.4 Greatness of Shiva Linga....................................................................................................................182 5.1.5 The Deities go to Kailash Mountain.....................................................................................................182 5.1.6 Anaal-Stambh (The Pillar of Fire)........................................................................................................182 5.1.7 Shiva Obliges Brahma.........................................................................................................................183 5.1.8 Consecration of Maheshwar................................................................................................................183 5.1.9 Omkar..................................................................................................................................................184 5.1.10 Rituals of Shiva Worship....................................................................................................................184 5.1.11 Sacred Pilgrimages of Shiva..............................................................................................................184 5.1.12 Conduct of the respective Castes......................................................................................................185 5.1.13 Types of Dharma...............................................................................................................................185 5.1.14 Appropriate Place and Time for Worshipping Shiva..........................................................................185 5.1.15 Worshipping the Idol of Shiva............................................................................................................186 5.1.16 The Majesty of Pranav Panchakshar.................................................................................................186 5.1.17 Worldly Bondage and Salvation.........................................................................................................187 5.1.18 The Worship of Parthiva Linga..........................................................................................................187 5.1.19 Methods of Worshipping Parthiva Linga............................................................................................187 5.1.20 Number of Parthiva Shivalingas........................................................................................................187 5.1.21 Importance of Naivedya and Bilva Leaves.........................................................................................188 5.1.22 The Majesty of Shivas Name............................................................................................................188 5.1.23 The Importance of Bhasma in Shivas Worship.................................................................................188 5.1.24 Importance of Rudraksha..................................................................................................................189 5.2 RUDRA SAMHITA..............................................................................................................................................189 5.2.1 Shrishti-Khand.....................................................................................................................................189 5.2.2 Victory of Narada over Kama.............................................................................................................189 5.2.3 Naradas Ego Subdued:.......................................................................................................................190 5.2.4 Vishnu Preaches Narad:......................................................................................................................190 5.2.5 Brahmaji Preaches Narad:...................................................................................................................190 5.2.6 The Origin of Vishnu............................................................................................................................190 5.2.7 Origin of Brahmaji................................................................................................................................191Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) Rg Veda


5.2.8 Dispute Between Brahmaji & Vishnuji.................................................................................................191 5.2.9 Shabda-Brahma..................................................................................................................................191 5.2.10 Shabda-Brahma Tanu.......................................................................................................................192 5.2.11 Shiva Enlightens Brahma & Vishnu...................................................................................................192 5.2.12 Age of Brahma, Vishnu & Rudra........................................................................................................192 5.2.13 The Methods of Worshipping Shiva...................................................................................................192 5.2.14 Acquiring of Shiva Lingas by the Deity..............................................................................................192 5.2.15 Methods of Worshipping Shiva Linga................................................................................................193 5.2.16 The Virtues of Worshipping Shiva Methodically.................................................................................193 5.2.17 The Origin of Kailash & Vaikunth.......................................................................................................193 5.2.18 The Emergence of Rudra-Avatar.......................................................................................................193 5.2.19 Creation.............................................................................................................................................193 5.2.20 Gunanidhi, The Brahmins Son..........................................................................................................194 5.2.21 Gunanidhis Salvation........................................................................................................................194 5.2.22 Shiva Blesses Gunanidhi...................................................................................................................195 5.2.23 Shiva goes to Kailash........................................................................................................................195 5.2.24 The Manifestation of Kama..............................................................................................................197 5.2.25 Brahma Curses Kamadeva................................................................................................................197 5.2.26 Kama Married Rati.............................................................................................................................197 5.2.27 Sandhya does Penance.....................................................................................................................197 5.2.28 Sandhya Receives a Boon from Shiva..............................................................................................198 5.2.29 Sandhyas Birth & her Marriage with Sage Vashistha.......................................................................198 5.2.30 Appearance of Spring Season (Vasant Ritu).....................................................................................198 5.2.31 The Creation of Marganas and Kamas Futile Attempts....................................................................199 5.2.32 Dailogue Between Brahma & Vishnu.................................................................................................199 5.2.33 Goddess Durga.................................................................................................................................199 5.2.34 Daksha Worships Devi......................................................................................................................199 5.2.35 Daksha Curses Narad.......................................................................................................................199 5.2.36 Birth of Sati........................................................................................................................................200 5.2.37 Sati does Penance............................................................................................................................200 5.2.38 Brahmaji makes a request to Lord Shiva...........................................................................................200 5.2.39 Shiva Blesses Uma with a Boon........................................................................................................200 5.2.40 Shiva Married Sati.............................................................................................................................200 5.2.41 Lord Brahma Faces the Wrath of Shiva.............................................................................................201 5.2.42 Deformed Face of Brahma................................................................................................................201 5.2.43 Shiva-Shakti as Husband & Wife.......................................................................................................201 5.2.44 Shiva-Shakti Depart for Himalya........................................................................................................201 5.2.45 The Importance of Devotion in Kaliyuga............................................................................................201 5.2.46 Satis Doubt.......................................................................................................................................202 5.2.47 Shiva does not see Sati as his consort..............................................................................................202 5.2.48 Dakshas Animosity towards Shiva....................................................................................................202 5.2.49 Daksha Performs Yagya....................................................................................................................203 5.2.50 Satis Arrival at the Oblation Site.......................................................................................................203 5.2.51 Satis Dishonor..................................................................................................................................203 5.2.52 Sati Gives Up Her Life.......................................................................................................................203 5.2.53 Manifestation of Veerbharda & Mahakali...........................................................................................203 5.2.54 Veerbhadra & Kali Assemble their Army............................................................................................204 5.2.55 Daksha Experiences Inauspicious Signs...........................................................................................204 5.2.56 Lord Vishnu Preaches Daksha..........................................................................................................204 5.2.57 Daksha Gets his Head Severed........................................................................................................204 5.2.58 Contention between Kshuva & Dadhichi............................................................................................204 5.2.59 Battle between Vishnu & Dadhichi.....................................................................................................205 5.2.60 The Deities go to Lord Shiva.............................................................................................................205 5.2.61 Daksha becomes Alive......................................................................................................................206 5.2.62 Daksha Organizes Yagya once again...............................................................................................206 5.2.63 Parvat Khand: Himalya Marries Maina..............................................................................................206 5.2.64 Maina gets Liberated from the Curse................................................................................................206 5.2.65 Invocation of Ua.................................................................................................................................207 5.2.66 Goddess Uma Consoles the Deities..................................................................................................207 5.2.67 Maina and Himalya Commence Penance..........................................................................................207 5.2.68 Birth of Parvati...................................................................................................................................207Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) Rg Veda


5.2.69 Divine Childhood Plays of Parvati......................................................................................................207 5.2.70 The Dreams of Parvati and Himalya..................................................................................................208 5.2.71 The Birth of Bhaum-Mars.................................................................................................................208 5.2.72 Shiva Arrives at Himalya....................................................................................................................208 5.2.73 Conversation between Parvati & Shiva..............................................................................................209 5.2.74 The Birth of Vajrang...........................................................................................................................209 5.2.75 Birth of Tarakasur and his Penance..................................................................................................210 5.2.76 Tarakasur Relinquishes Heaven on the Advice of Lord Brahma.......................................................210 5.2.77 Kamadeva Sent to Lord Shiva...........................................................................................................210 5.2.78 Efforts of Kamadeva..........................................................................................................................210 5.2.79 Kamadeva Reduces to Ashes...........................................................................................................210 5.2.80 The Anger of Shiva Subsides............................................................................................................211 5.2.81 Narada Preaches Parvati...................................................................................................................211 5.2.82 Parvati does Penance........................................................................................................................211 5.2.83 The Deities go to Lord Shiva.............................................................................................................212 5.2.84 Salutations Gives His Approval.........................................................................................................212 5.2.85 Parvatis Love for Shiva Tested by the Sapta-Rishis.........................................................................212 5.2.86 Lord Shiva Tests Parvati....................................................................................................................212 5.2.87 Parvatis Reply...................................................................................................................................212 5.2.88 Shiva Reveals his True Identity.........................................................................................................212 5.2.89 Shiva Demands Parvati as his Consort.............................................................................................213 5.2.90 Shivas Delusionary Power................................................................................................................213 5.2.91 Shiva Instructs Sapta-Rishis to Convince Maina & Himalya..............................................................214 5.2.92 Anaranya, The King...........................................................................................................................214 5.2.93 Padma and Pippalad.........................................................................................................................214 5.2.94 Himalya Sends Lagna-Patrika...........................................................................................................215 5.2.95 Lord Shiva Invites the Deities............................................................................................................215 5.2.96 Lord Shivas Marriage Procession.....................................................................................................215 5.2.97 Shiva Divine Plays.............................................................................................................................215 5.2.98 Mainas Wail......................................................................................................................................215 5.2.99 Himalya Bestows Parvati to Shiva.....................................................................................................216 5.2.100 Shiva Brings Back Kamadeva Alive.................................................................................................216 5.2.101 Shivas Departure............................................................................................................................216 5.2.102 Kartikeya..........................................................................................................................................217 5.2.103 Search for Kartikeya........................................................................................................................217 5.2.104 Kartikeyas Coronation.....................................................................................................................217 5.2.105 Kartikeyas Amazing Character.......................................................................................................217 5.2.106 The Battle........................................................................................................................................218 5.2.107 Killing of Tarakasur..........................................................................................................................218 5.2.108 Killings of Pralamb & Banasur.........................................................................................................218 5.2.109 Ganesh............................................................................................................................................218 5.2.110 Ganesha Defeats The Shivaganas & The Deities...........................................................................219 5.2.111 Shiva Severes Ganeshs Head........................................................................................................219 5.2.112 Ganesh Becomes Alive...................................................................................................................219 5.2.113 Ganeshas Marriage........................................................................................................................219 5.2.114 Yudh-Khand: Tripurasur- The Three Demon...................................................................................220 5.2.115 The Deities Eulogize Shiva & Vishnu..............................................................................................220 5.2.116 Emergence of Atheism....................................................................................................................221 5.2.117 The Deities Eulogize Lord Shiva......................................................................................................221 5.2.118 Killings of Tripurasurs......................................................................................................................221 5.2.119 The Deities Receive a Boon from Shiva..........................................................................................222 5.2.120 Lord Shiva Spares The Life of Indra................................................................................................222 5.2.121 Manifestation of Jaladhar.................................................................................................................222 5.2.122 Battle Between Jalandhar & The Deities.........................................................................................223 5.2.123 Battle Between Lord Vishnu & Jalandhar........................................................................................223 5.2.124 Narads Stratagem...........................................................................................................................224 5.2.125 Battle Between Lord Shiva & Jalandhar..........................................................................................224 5.2.126 Vrinda Gets Dishonored..................................................................................................................224 5.2.127 Killing of Jalandhar..........................................................................................................................225 5.2.128 The Deities Express Gratitude.........................................................................................................225 5.2.129 Manifestation of Amla (Myrobalan), Tulsi (~Basil) and Malti............................................................225Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) Rg Veda


5.2.130 Birth of Shankhachuda....................................................................................................................225 5.2.131 Shankhachudas Marriage...............................................................................................................225 5.2.132 Shankhachuda Becomes the Ruler of All Three Worlds..................................................................226 5.2.133 Shiva Assures the Deities................................................................................................................226 5.2.134 Conversation Between Pushpadant & Shankhachuda....................................................................226 5.2.135 Shiva Proceeds with his Army.........................................................................................................226 5.2.136 Shankhachuda Proceeds with his Army..........................................................................................226 5.2.137 Battle Between the Deities and the Demons...................................................................................226 5.2.138 The Battle Between Shivas Family & Shankhachuda.....................................................................226 5.2.139 Strategy Employed to Kill Shankhachuda........................................................................................226 5.2.140 Lord Shiva Kills Shankhachuda.......................................................................................................227 5.2.141 Tulsi Curses Lord Vishnu.................................................................................................................227 5.2.142 Killing of Hiranyaksha......................................................................................................................227 5.2.143 Lord Shiva Teaches The Secrets of Mrita-Sanjivani Vidya to Shukracharya...................................227 5.2.144 Andhaks Splendors.........................................................................................................................228 5.2.145 Battle Between Lord Shiva and Andhak..........................................................................................228 5.2.146 Reemergence of Shukracharya.......................................................................................................229 5.2.147 Killing of Gajasur.............................................................................................................................229 5.2.148 Killing of Nirhaddaitya......................................................................................................................229 5.2.149 Killing of Vidal and Utpal..................................................................................................................230 5.3 SHATRUDRA SAMHITA........................................................................................................................................230 5.3.1 Sadhojat (1).........................................................................................................................................230 5.3.2 Naamdeva (2)......................................................................................................................................230 5.3.3 Tatpurush (3).......................................................................................................................................230 5.3.4 Ghoresh (4).........................................................................................................................................231 5.3.5 Ishan (5)..............................................................................................................................................231 5.3.6 Eight Idols of Shiva..............................................................................................................................231 5.3.7 Shiva as Ardhanarishwar.....................................................................................................................231 5.3.8 Various Incarnations of Vyasa and Lord Shiva....................................................................................231 5.3.9 Nandikeshwar......................................................................................................................................232 5.3.10 Bhairav Gets Liberated from his Sin..................................................................................................233 5.3.11 Shiva Takes an Incarnation as Sharabh............................................................................................233 5.3.12 Vishwanar Receives a Boon from Shiva............................................................................................233 5.3.13 Shivas Incarnation as Grihapati........................................................................................................234 5.3.14 Grihapatis Penance..........................................................................................................................234 5.3.15 Lord Shivas Incarnation as Yaksheshwar.........................................................................................234 5.3.16 Dash Avatar (10 Incarnations of Shiva).............................................................................................235 5.3.17 The Origin of Eleven Rudras.............................................................................................................235 5.3.18 Shivas Incarnation as Durvasa.........................................................................................................235 5.3.19 Incarnation of Hanuman....................................................................................................................236 5.3.20 Shivas Incarnation as Mahesh..........................................................................................................236 5.3.21 Lord Vishnu Creates Turbulences.....................................................................................................236 5.3.22 Shivas Incarnation as Vrishabh........................................................................................................237 5.3.23 Killing of Vrittrasur.............................................................................................................................237 5.3.24 Shivas Incarnation as Yatinath.........................................................................................................238 5.3.25 Shivas Incarnation as Krshna Darshan.............................................................................................238 5.3.26 Lord Shiva Appears as a Beggar.......................................................................................................239 5.3.27 Lord Shiva Appears in the Guise of Indra (Sureshwar).....................................................................239 5.3.28 Sage Vyasa Advises the Pandavas to Worship Shiva.......................................................................240 5.3.29 Indra Appears before Arjun................................................................................................................240 5.3.30 Lord Shiva Appears in the Guise of Kirat...........................................................................................241 5.3.31 Kirat Blesses Arjun............................................................................................................................241 5.3.32 The Twelve Jyotirlingas.....................................................................................................................241 5.4 KOTI RUDRA SAMHITA.......................................................................................................................................242 5.4.1 The Greatness of Upalingas................................................................................................................242 5.4.2 Atri and Anusuya do Penance.............................................................................................................243 5.4.3 The Greatness of Atri..........................................................................................................................243 5.4.4 The Brahmin Woman Attains to Heaven..............................................................................................243 5.4.5 Mahabal Shiva Linga...........................................................................................................................244 5.4.6 The Reason Behind Phallic Worship...................................................................................................244 5.4.7 The Origin of Batuknath.......................................................................................................................245Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) Rg Veda


5.4.8 The Origin of Somnath.........................................................................................................................245 5.4.9 The Origin of Mallikarjuna....................................................................................................................246 5.4.10 The Origin of Mahakaleshwar............................................................................................................246 5.4.11 The Origin of Omkareshwar...............................................................................................................246 5.4.12 The Origin of Kedareshwar................................................................................................................247 5.4.13 The Origin of Bheema Shankar.........................................................................................................247 5.4.14 The Origin of Vishveshwar.................................................................................................................247 5.4.15 The Origin of Trayambakeshwar.......................................................................................................247 5.4.16 The Origin of Baidyanath...................................................................................................................248 5.4.17 The Origin of Nageshwar Jyotirlinga..................................................................................................249 5.4.18 Establishment of Rameshwar............................................................................................................249 5.4.19 The Origin of Dhushmesh Jyotirlinga.................................................................................................250 5.4.20 Lord Vishnu Receives Sudarshan Chakra.........................................................................................251 5.4.21 Shiva Sahastranaam.........................................................................................................................251 5.4.22 The Greatness of Sahastranaam.......................................................................................................251 5.4.23 The Devotees of Shiva......................................................................................................................251 5.4.24 Austerities & Fastings Connected with Shivas Worship....................................................................251 5.4.25 Mahashivaratri...................................................................................................................................252 5.4.26 Accomplishment of Shivratri (Uddyapan)...........................................................................................252 5.4.27 The Greatness of Shivaratri...............................................................................................................252 5.4.28 Different Stages of Liberation............................................................................................................253 5.5 UMA SAMHITA.................................................................................................................................................254 5.5.1 Conversation Between Krshna & Upamanyu.......................................................................................254 5.5.2 Sri Krshna Does Penance...................................................................................................................254 5.5.3 Classification of Grave Sins.................................................................................................................255 5.5.4 The Description of Hell........................................................................................................................255 5.5.5 Charity and its Importance...................................................................................................................255 5.5.6 The Description of the Netherworld (Patal Loka).................................................................................256 5.5.7 Liberation From Hell............................................................................................................................256 5.5.8 The Description of Seven Islands........................................................................................................256 5.5.9 The Description of Planets...................................................................................................................257 5.5.10 Categories of Austerity (Tapa)...........................................................................................................257 5.5.11 The Origin of Body.............................................................................................................................257 5.5.12 Purification of the Body......................................................................................................................257 5.5.13 Control over Death (Ichchha Mrityu)..................................................................................................257 5.5.14 The Descent of Ganga.......................................................................................................................258 5.5.15 The Austerities of Ved Vyasa............................................................................................................258 5.5.16 Incarnation of Mahakali......................................................................................................................258 5.5.17 Incarnation of Mahalaxmi...................................................................................................................259 5.5.18 Incarnation of Mahasarasvati.............................................................................................................259 5.5.19 Uma Warns the Deities......................................................................................................................260 5.5.20 The Incarnation of Shakambari..........................................................................................................260 5.6 KAILASH SAMHITA.............................................................................................................................................260 5.6.1 Classifications of Yoga........................................................................................................................260 5.6.2 Conduct of a Sanyasi..........................................................................................................................261 5.6.3 Methods of Shiva Worship...................................................................................................................261 5.6.4 The Greatness of Pranay Mantra........................................................................................................261 5.6.5 Initiation of a Sanyasi..........................................................................................................................261 5.6.6 Last Rites of an Ascetic (Sanyasi).......................................................................................................262 5.7 VAYVIYA SAMHITA............................................................................................................................................262 5.7.1 The Origin of Vidya (Knowledge).........................................................................................................262 5.7.2 The Tale of Naimisharanya..................................................................................................................263 5.7.3 Time The Radiance of Shiva............................................................................................................263 5.7.4 Time Calculation...............................................................................................................................263 5.7.5 Meditation............................................................................................................................................264 5.7.6 Rituals Connected with Shivas Worship.............................................................................................264 5.7.7 Pashupat Vrata and its Rituals............................................................................................................264 5.7.8 Introduction of the Universe.................................................................................................................265 5.7.9 Duties of a Brahmin.............................................................................................................................265 5.7.10 Chanting of Mantras..........................................................................................................................266 5.7.11 Establishing Deities in the form of Alphabets within the Body...........................................................266Ano Bhadraha Kritavayo Yantu Vishwataha (Let noble thoughts come from every side) Rg Veda


5.7.12 Mental Worship of Shiva....................................................................................................................266 5.7.13 Method of Doing Mental Worship......................................................................................................266 5.7.14 Method of Performing Havan.............................................................................................................267 5.7.15 Auspicious Days for Performing Shiva Worship................................................................................267 5.7.16 Desirable Rituals (Kamya Karma).....................................................................................................267 5.7.17 Rituals Pertaining to Shiva Worship (Shaiva Kamya Karma).............................................................268 5.7.18 Installation of Shiva Linga..................................................................................................................268 5.7.19 Classification of Yoga........................................................................................................................268 5.7.20 Hurdle in the Path of Yoga.................................................................................................................268 5.7.21 Shiva Yoga........................................................................................................................................269 5.7.22 SanatKumar Receive Shiva-Gyan from Nandi...................................................................................269 6 VAMANA PURANA...........................................................................................................................................271 6.1 INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................................271 6.2 TALES OF LORD SHIVA......................................................................................................................................271 6.2.1 Shiva Returns to Mandaar Mountain...................................................................................................271 6.2.2 Atonement of Lord Shankar.................................................................................................................272 6.2.3 Sati Gives up her Life..........................................................................................................................272 6.2.4 The Destruction of Dakshas Yagya....................................................................................................273 6.3 TALES OF DEMONS...........................................................................................................................................273 6.3.1 Andhak The Demon King..................................................................................................................273 6.3.2 Sukeshis Queries................................................................................................................................274 6.3.3 Sinful Deeds........................................................................................................................................274 6.3.4 Jambudweep and Bharatvarsh............................................................................................................274 6.3.5 Dashaang Dharma..............................................................................................................................275 6.3.6 The Rise and Fall of Sukeshis Kingdom.............................................................................................275 6.4 TALES OF NAR-NARAYANA.................................................................................................................................276 6.4.1 Manifestation of Nar-Narayana............................................................................................................276 6.4.2 Prahlad meets Nar-Narayana..............................................................................................................276 6.4.3 Prahlad blessed by Nar-Narayana.......................................................................................................276 6.5 MANIFESTATION OF VEGETATION FROM THE DEITIES..................................................................................................277 6.6 MAHISHASURA.................................................................................................................................................277 6.6.1 Mahishasuras Atrocities......................................................................................................................277 6.6.2 The Demons Chand and Mund.........................................................................................................278 6.6.3 Killing of Mahishasura.........................................................................................................................279 6.6.4 Reincarnation of Goddess Durga........................................................................................................280 6.7 TALES OF KING KURU AND KURUKSHETRA..............................................................................................................280 6.8 BALI THE DEMON KING..................................................................................................................................281 6.8.1 Deities go to Brahma Loka..................................................................................................................281 6.8.2 The Deities do Penance......................................................................................................................281 6.8.3 Lord Narayana Blesses Kashyap........................................................................................................282 6.8.4 Lord Vishnu Appears...........................................................................................................................282 6.8.5 Balis Queries to Prahlad.....................................................................................................................282 6.8.6 Manifestation of Lord Vaaman.............................................................................................................282 6.8.7 Lord Vaamans Demands....................................................................................................................283 6.9 SARASVATI RIVER.............................................................................................................................................283 6.10 KURUKSHETRA...............................................................................................................................................284 6.11 SAGE MANKANAK EULOGIZES SHIVA...................................................................................................................284 6.12 SOME SACRED PLACES OF PILGRIMAGE..............................................................................................................284 6.12.1 Aushanas Tirtha................................................................................................................................284 6.12.2 Vashishtha-pavah Tirtha....................................................................................................................285 6.12.3 Kamyakvan Tirtha..............................................................................................................................285 6.12.4 Sthanu Tirtha.....................................................................................................................................285 6.13 SAGES TAKE LORD SHIVAS REFUGE..................................................................................................................286 6.14 GREATNESS OF STHANU TIRTHA........................................................................................................................287 6.14.1 The Greatness of Saanihitya Sarovar and Sthanu Tirtha..................................................................287 6.14.2 Other Prominent Lingas.....................................................................................................................287 6.14.3 King Ven, Birth of Prithu....................................................................................................................287 6.14.4 Ven Attains Heaven...........................................................................................................................288 6.15 THE ORIGIN OF BRAHMESHWARS FOUR HEADS.......................................................................................

Puranas

Documents

Transcript of Puranas