Varaha Purana
The dialogue between Lord Varaha and Mother Earth on Dharma and Salvation.
Summary
The Varaha Purana is one of the eighteen Mahapuranas, narrated by Lord Varaha (the Boar incarnation of Vishnu) to Goddess Earth (Bhudevi). It is a Vaishnava Purana that primarily focuses on the worship of Lord Vishnu and the importance of observing vows (Vratas).
The text describes the rescue of the Earth from the cosmic ocean by Varaha, the geography of the world, and the glory of various holy places (Tirthas), with a special emphasis on Mathura and Tirupati (Venkatachala). It also contains stories illustrating the power of devotion, the nature of sins, and the path to expiation (Prayaschitta).
Key Teachings & Events
- Varaha Avatar: The detailed account of how Lord Vishnu assumed the form of a boar to lift the Earth from the depths of the cosmic ocean and slay the demon Hiranyaksha.
- Mathura Mahatmya: Extensive glorification of the holy city of Mathura and its various sacred spots associated with Lord Krishna.
- Vratas and Festivals: Detailed descriptions of various vows, fasts, and festivals dedicated to Vishnu, Devi, and other deities.
- Nachiketa's Story: A version of the story of Nachiketa and his dialogue with Yama regarding the afterlife and destiny.
- Dharma and Karma: Discussions on righteous conduct, the nature of sins, and the expiations (Prayaschitta) for them.
- Tirtha Mahatmya: Descriptions of other pilgrimage sites like Kubjāmraka and the Himalayas.
Key Verse
"नमस्तस्मै वराहाय लीलयोद्धरते महीम् |
खुरमध्यगतो यस्य मेरुः खणखणायते ||"
(Invocation to Varaha)
Translation: Salutations to that Lord Varaha who lifted the Earth as a mere play, and between whose hooves Mount Meru clattered like a small stone.