Shloka 42
Entry into Yama’s Abode; Nature, Causes, and Signs of the Preta-State
विकर्मा जायते प्रेतो ह्यविधिक्रियया तथा / तत्कालदुष्टसंसर्गाद्वृषोत्सर्गादृते तथा
vikarmā jāyate preto hyavidhikriyayā tathā / tatkāladuṣṭasaṃsargādvṛṣotsargādṛte tathā
One who performs vikarma—forbidden and perverse deeds—becomes a preta; likewise, one becomes a preta when funerary rites are done contrary to proper rule. Moreover, by keeping company with the wicked at the critical time (of death or the rites), and by neglecting the vṛṣotsarga rite, one similarly falls into the preta-state.
Lord Vishnu (narrating to Garuda/Vinata-putra)
Afterlife Stage: Pretayoni
Beneficiary: Pitr
Timing: Antyeṣṭi and immediate post-death liminal period (tad-kāla)
Concept: Vikarma and avidhi-kriyā (improper rites) can lead to pretatva; association with the wicked at the liminal moment and omission of vṛṣotsarga are cited as causal faults.
Vedantic Theme: Ritual order (vidhi) as a dharmic support for the jīva’s transition; saṅga (company) shaping karma and destiny.
Application: Follow proper antyeṣṭi and śrāddha procedures under competent guidance; avoid harmful influences during death/ritual periods; complete prescribed ancillary rites such as vṛṣotsarga where tradition requires.
Primary Rasa: bhayanaka
Secondary Rasa: raudra
Related Themes: Garuda Purana: Pretakalpa causes of pretatva (this verse) and consequences (2.20.43); Garuda Purana: śrāddha-vidhi chapters (general)
FAQs
This verse states that performing rites without proper injunction (avidhikriyā) can lead to the deceased becoming a preta, highlighting that correct procedure is treated as spiritually consequential.
It implies that moral transgression (vikarma) and ritual failures can obstruct the post-death transition, resulting in a preta state—restlessness and lack of proper onward movement.
Live in alignment with dharma, avoid harmful company during critical life moments, and ensure last rites/śrāddha are performed carefully under competent guidance rather than casually or incorrectly.