The Garuda Purana, one of the 18 Mahapuranas, holds great significance in Hindu tradition. Presented as a dialogue between Lord Vishnu and Garuda, this Purana explains deep spiritual truths about life, death, sin, virtue, the journey of the soul, and the path to liberation. It also mentions certain sacred items that should be present with a person at the time of death.

Lord Vishnu tells Garuda that if a dying person possesses four holy items at the moment of death, the soul’s journey becomes smooth, peaceful, and free from obstacles. These items help the soul attain higher realms and relief from the cycle of suffering. Let’s understand what these four sacred things are.

1. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
   Tulsi is regarded as a symbol of purity and divine grace. It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi resides in the Tulsi plant. According to tradition, a person nearing death should be placed near a Tulsi plant, and a Tulsi leaf or bud should be placed in their mouth. The Garuda Purana states that a person who dies with Tulsi leaves attains heaven and avoids the sufferings of the lower realms.

2. Kusha Grass Seat
   Kusha grass is considered extremely sacred and symbolizes purity, stability, and spiritual energy. Rituals performed while sitting on a Kusha seat are believed to yield powerful results. If a dying person is laid on a Kusha seat, it is said to purify the soul and guide it toward heaven.

3. Ganga Water
   In Hinduism, the waters of the River Ganga are regarded as divine and purifying, often compared to nectar. According to tradition, Ganga water should be offered to a person in their final moments. The Garuda Purana states that drinking or touching Ganga water at the time of death cleanses the soul of sins and helps it move peacefully towards liberation.

4. Sesame Seeds (Til)
   Sesame seeds hold deep spiritual importance and are used in rituals related to ancestors and purification. At the time of death, sesame seeds should be offered or placed near the dying person. The Garuda Purana says that sesame seeds lighten the burden of the soul, help dissolve accumulated sins, and make the soul’s journey smooth and serene.

These four sacred items—Tulsi, Kusha grass, Ganga water, and sesame seeds—are considered powerful aids for the soul at the time of death. According to Garuda Purana, their presence ensures peace, spiritual purity, and liberation from suffering.