Garuda asks his mother Vinata for advice and blessing
Before setting out to steal the amrita, Garuda asks his mother Vinata what he should eat. She directs him to the nishadas but delivers a crucial, vivid warning: he must never kill a Brahmana, and she describes how he will know one if he tries.
After agreeing to the snakes’ demand, Garuda went to his mother Vinata. “I am going to get the amrita,” he said. “But I wish to eat something. Tell me what.”
Vinata’s instructions were direct. “The nishadas have their excellent home in a remote part of the ocean. Eat thousands of nishadas and bring back the amrita.” Then she gave the warning that framed the entire directive. “But never set your mind on killing a Brahmana. Among all living beings, a Brahmana is like fire and is never to be killed. When he is angered, a Brahmana is like fire, the sun, poison or a sharp weapon. He is the one who obtains the first share at a sacrifice, is supreme among the varnas (social orders) and is a father and preceptor.”
Garuda asked for clarification. “What are the auspicious signs through which I will recognize a Brahmana?”
Vinata’s answer was not a list of physical traits or garments. It was a sensory prophecy. “If a man goes down your throat torturing you like a swallowed fish hook or burning it like hot coal, know him to be a bull among Brahmanas.” She repeated the words out of great love for her son.
Vinata knew Garuda’s valour was unparalleled. Still, a mother’s concern moved her to pronounce a protective blessing. “Let the Maruts (wind gods) protect your wings. Let the moon protect your back. Let the fire protect your head. Let the sun protect all your body. I shall always be engaged in ceremonies that bring you peace and welfare. Go in safety and accomplish your objective.”
Having heard his mother’s advice and her blessing, the bird stretched his wings and flew up into the sky to begin his quest.