Material: Copper. Pendant

Size: Height 6 cm (approximate size)

Narrative:

Garuda is an important deity in Tibetan Buddhism and Indian religious mythology. It is extremely powerful and is usually described as a huge golden bird with incredible power and sacred status. In Buddhism and Hinduism, the Garuda has profound symbolic significance, and its story and origin are full of mythology.

**Origin in Hinduism**

In Hinduism, the Garuda is called Garuda, the mount of Lord Vishnu and also the patron saint. According to legend, Garuda was born from the fateful conflict between the divine bird and the snake king. With its powerful strength and sacred mission, it became a loyal partner of Lord Vishnu.

Garuda's birth was due to the unfair treatment of his mother by the snake king. In order to save his mother, Garuda displayed amazing strength, swallowed snakes and defeated enemies, becoming a symbol of the indomitable guardian.

**Characters and symbols in Buddhism**

In Buddhism, especially Tibetan Buddhism, the Garuda is incorporated into mythology, symbolizing the power to conquer all obstacles. It usually represents the might of Buddhism and the power of Dharma protectors, especially in the practice of Tantric Buddhism, where it has the effect of exorcising demons and warding off evil spirits.

The body of the Garuda is huge enough to cover the sky and the sun. When its wings are spread, it can stir up a storm, and its roar can shake the heaven and earth. In Tibetan Buddhism, some methods pray for the blessing of Garuda to protect practitioners from external interference and help them improve their practice.

**The Legend of Garuda**

According to legend, the Garuda feeds on snakes. It subdued the snake king and his clan, symbolizing the power to subdue negative energy and sin. The Buddha once taught the Dharma to Garuda in order to resolve the hatred between it and the snake clan and make it a protector of the Dharma. From then on, it is no longer just a mighty predator, but has become the protector of all living things.

In the altars of Tantric Buddhism, the image of Garuda is often used in religious art such as murals and thangkas, symbolizing the exorcism of evil and the protection of practitioners.

**Cultural influence of Garuda**

Garuda is not only a mythological character, but also a symbol of religious belief. Its image appears in many temple decorations, scripture illustrations, and guardian ceremonies, and it is regarded as an important existence that protects all living beings, wards off evil and welcomes good fortune.