विष्णु चालीसा — Word-by-Word Meaning

Victory to the Lord of the universe, O Hari! You are Brahma, Rudra, the eternal one, the Supreme Lord. When during the churning of the ocean the terrible poison emerged, all the gods were distraught — then you saved them. In the form of Matsya (fish), you saved from the great flood. In the form of Kurma (tortoise), you bore the weight of the earth. In the form of Varaha (boar), you slew Hiranyaksha and rescued the earth. In the form of Narasimha (man-lion), you saved Prahlad. In the form of Vaman (dwarf), you outwitted King Bali through charity. As Parashurama, you destroyed the arrogant warriors. As Sri Ram, you destroyed Ravana's army. As Krishna, you slew the tyrant Kamsa. As Buddha, you spread compassion. As Kalki, you will destroy the wicked. Your ten incarnations are your divine play. The whole world knows of them. Conch, discus and mace adorn your hands. You wear yellow garments and a crown. Your mount Garuda is uniquely splendid. With Lakshmi, you always bring happiness. Your abode is the ocean of milk. The serpent Shesha is your blissful bed. Tulsi plants adorn your temple doorways. Your devotees always carry auspicious virtues. Closing: Whoever reads this Vishnu Chalisa with a pure heart obtains all happiness and prosperity with Lord Vishnu's help.