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Vaikuntha
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Vaikuntha: Origin

वैकुंठ

Vaikuntha is the eternal abode of Vishnu and Lakshmi, a realm of light beyond the material universe. The Rigveda calls it Vishnu's highest step, and the Bhagavata Purana describes its gatekeepers Jaya and Vijaya, whose curse sets the stage for several avatars. Its gate is said to open on Vaikuntha Ekadashi.

Where did it come from?

The texts tell different stories.

Rigveda 1.22.20 and 1.154.5

The highest step

The Vedas speak of the paramam padam, the highest abode of Vishnu, seen by the wise and filled with sweetness.

Bhagavata Purana 3.15-16

The world beyond the worlds

The Purana describes Vaikuntha in detail and tells the story of the gatekeepers Jaya and Vijaya.

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