Section CX - Garuda Explains the Significance of the West Quarter
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CX including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
Garuda explains to Galava that the west is the favourite quarter of King Varuna, the ruler of the ocean, where sovereignty lies. The sun dismisses its rays towards the west, making it the evening quarter. The moon rejuvenates by consuming Varuna's juices, and the wind god defeated the Daityas in this region. The twilight mountain Asta and the origin of the Maruts from Diti's foetus are also located in the west.
The roots of the Himavat stretch towards the eternal Mandara in the west, and Surabhi pours her milk near a lake adorned with golden lotuses. The headless trunk of Rahu, who seeks to devour the sun and moon, is also found in this region. Suvarnasiras chants the Vedas with immeasurable energy, and Muni Harimedhas' daughter remains transfixed in the sky due to Surya's command to stop.
The west is where wind, fire, earth, and water are free from pain both day and night, and the sun's course begins to deviate here. Astral bodies enter the solar sphere in this direction and move with the moon after twenty-eight nights with the sun. The rivers with sources in this region feed the ocean, and Anarta, the prince of snakes, resides here along with Vishnu and Rishi Kasyapa.
Garuda presents the vast significance of the western quarter to Galava, inviting him to decide which direction they should journey towards next to explore more divine realms. Varuna's abode, the origins of celestial beings, and the presence of powerful entities make the west a region of great spiritual and cosmic importance. The richness of the west's history and significance is evident in the various mythical events and beings that inhabit the quarter, offering a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of the universe's divine design.
Full English translation:
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Section CX, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section CX:
What is the significance of the western quarter according to Garuda?
The western quarter is favored by Varuna, ruler of the ocean. It is where the sun sets, moon rejuvenates, and waters of the three worlds reside. Many divine events and beings are associated with this region.
Where are the sources of rivers and the abodes of various deities situated in the western quarter?
The sources of rivers, abodes of Varuna, Vishnu, and Rishi Kasyapa are all situated in the western quarter. It is also where the Maruts originated, and where the headless trunk of Svarbhanu, intent on devouring the sun and moon, is found.
Daily life: Garuda Explains the Significance of the West Quarter:
The story, rich with symbolism and myth, introduces us to the idea that different directions hold unique significances and tales of divine interactions. It suggests that the west is associated with endings and transitions, as denoted by the setting of the sun, representing the conclusion of day and the ushering of night. This can be seen as a metaphor for embracing closures and changes in our daily lives, acknowledging them as natural and essential phases for growth and rejuvenation.
By reflecting on the narratives of deities and mythical beings engaging with the elements and each other in the west, we can draw inspiration to handle our own life's transitions with grace. Just as the moon, after consuming Varuna's gifts, renews itself, we too can find renewal in our personal cycles of conclusion and commencement. It encourages us to see every ending as a prelude to a new beginning, inviting reflection, rest, and preparation for what comes next.
Incorporating this wisdom into daily life involves acknowledging the importance of rest and reflection amid our routines. Recognizing the need for endings, much like the sunset, can help us welcome new opportunities with a refreshed spirit and open mind. It teaches resilience and the value of letting go, allowing us to move forward from experiences with learned lessons and a hopeful outlook.