Rama is the ocean, the good and steadfast are the rain-clouds; Hari is the sandal-tree, the saints are the winds (that shed abroad its perfume). Firm faith in Hari is the reward of all spiritual endeavour, but no man has ever won it without the help of the saints.

Whoever bears this in mind, O Garuda, and communes with the good finds devotion to Rama easy of attainment.

brahma is the ocean (of milk), spiritual wisdom Mandarachala and the saints the gods who churn out the nectar of the sacred legends wherein is the sweetness of faith.

That which defends itself with the shield of continence, slays the enemy – pride, covetousness and ignorance with the sword of knowledge and wins the victory is but faith in Hari. Take thought, O king of birds, and see (if it be not so).’

Then Garuda, the king of birds, replied in loving tones; ‘If you love me, my gracious master, acknowledge me as your own servant and answer me these seven questions

Tell me first, my resolute lord, what form is the most difficult of all to obtain. Next, consider and tell me briefly what is the greatest pain and what is the highest pleasure.

Explain the inherent characteristics both of the good and of the bad, for this is a secret into which you have deep insight. Tell me also what is the highest religious merit as made known in the Vedas and what the most deadly sin.