Material: Copper. Pendant. Amulet

Size: 8 ~ 9 cm

Description:

Garuda (Sanskrit: Garuḍa, Tibetan: ཁྱུང་, Khyung) is an important mythical animal in Hinduism and Buddhism, and also has profound symbolic meaning and cultural influence in Tibetan Buddhism. The following is an overview of the mythological story of Garuda and its role and influence in Tibetan Buddhism:

Mythological story

1. **Origin and image**:

In Hinduism and Buddhist mythology, Garuda is described as a huge divine bird, half-human and half-bird, with golden wings, sharp beak and claws, symbolizing strength, speed and holiness. Its image comes from ancient Indian mythology, related to the sun and fire, representing power beyond the mundane.

2. **Hindu background**:

In Hinduism, Garuda is the mount of Vishnu, symbolizing his divine authority and protective power. According to the Mahabharata and other classics, Garuda is the son of Kashyapa and Vinata, and has a grudge with the Naga clan. In mythology, Garuda feeds on dragons, showing its unparalleled power. There is a famous story about Garuda stealing Amrita from the gods to save his mother from slavery, showing its bravery and loyalty.

3. **Evolution in Buddhism**:

After the introduction of Buddhism, Garuda was incorporated into Buddhist mythology and became one of the guardian gods, especially in Mahayana Buddhism and Vajrayana. It is regarded as a symbol of wisdom and power, protecting Buddhism from evil spirits. In classics such as the Lotus Sutra, Garuda is listed as one of the eight groups, and protects Buddhism together with dragons, gods, etc.

Influence in Tibetan Buddhism

1. **Symbolic meaning**:

In Tibetan Buddhism, Garuda (Tibetan: Khyung) is an important guardian and symbol, representing wisdom, power and transcendental liberation. Its golden wings symbolize light and enlightenment, and can dispel ignorance and evil. Garuda is often opposed to the dragon clan (Nāga), symbolizing the power of Buddhism to fight against greed, anger, ignorance and other troubles.

2. **Fusion of Bon and Tibetan Buddhism**:

The image of Garuda in Tibetan Buddhism is deeply influenced by the native Bon religion in Tibet. In Bon, Garuda is regarded as a sacred bird, related to the sky, wind and spiritual power. Tibetan Buddhism absorbed this image and incorporated it into the practice of Vajrayana, especially in rituals related to guardian gods. Garuda often appears in thangkas, mandalas and temple murals, reflecting its sacred status.

3. **Practice and ritual**:

- In the Vajrayana tantras of Tibetan Buddhism, Garuda is often used as the incarnation of a guardian deity, and is associated with Vajrapani and others, to subdue demons and protect practitioners.

- In some tantric rituals, Garuda is regarded as a deity or guardian, and practitioners pray for power and blessings by visualizing its image or chanting related mantras.

- In some festivals and ceremonies in Tibet, the totem or image of Garuda is used in exorcism and blessing ceremonies, symbolizing purification and sacred power.

4. **Culture and art**:

- The image of Garuda is widely seen in Tibetan Buddhist thangkas, sculptures and architectural decorations, usually depicted as a mighty and powerful divine bird with wings spread, often appearing on the lintels or murals of temples, symbolizing protection and power.

- In Tibetan culture, the Garuda totem also appears in folk art and religious objects, such as ritual implements and flags, reflecting its profound influence in Tibetan culture.

5. **Literature and legend**:

In Tibetan folklore, the Garuda is often regarded as a sacred bird, echoing the imagery of the mountains and sky in Tibet, symbolizing freedom and transcendence. Some legends link it with the sacred mountains of Tibet (such as Mount Kailash), adding to its mysterious color.

Summary

The Garuda evolved from the mount of Vishnu in Hinduism to the guardian deity in Buddhism, and became a symbol of wisdom, power and enlightenment in Tibetan Buddhism. Its mythology shows the qualities of bravery and loyalty, and in Tibetan culture, it incorporates elements of Bon and Buddhism, becoming an important religious and cultural symbol, widely appearing in art, rituals and practice, with far-reaching influence.

If you need more in-depth details or specific Tibetan Buddhist rituals, please let me know!

Copper Garuda Pendant