The character of Bhishma
Krishna narrated the story of Parasurama to Yudhishthira on their way to meet Bhishma. The purpose was to highlight the valour of the veteran Kaurava who fought against Parasurama for twenty three days without getting defeated. The only other person who accomplished such a feat was Rama of Ramayana fame.
Let us briefly run through the life of Bhishma to remind ourselves how great a person he was. He was the leader of the eight divine Vasus who were cursed to be born on earth for stealing Vasishtha’s cow, on account of their human-like greed. The sage reduced the severity of the curse for all the other Vasus by allowing them instant death after birth, but, not for their leader. He was to live long and bear the punishment fully. But, he would live a life of great fame and honour. Goddess of the river Ganga would help them in this matter.
We may remember how this was facilitated by Santanu, the grandfather of Dhritarashtra, falling in love with Ganga and how he agreed not to object to any of her actions. The king stood aghast watching the cruel killing of his first seven sons by their own mother. But, he could bear it no more when she was about to kill the eighth son, Devavrata. That led to the return of Ganga to heaven, but, not before she turned the new born Devavrata into an accomplished lad, skilled in all sciences.
Devavrata earned the name, Bhishma, because of his terrible oath when he gave up his claim to the throne and even his married life to win Satyavathy, the mother of Veda Vyasa, for his father. That was how he won his father’s blessing for death at will. The rest of Bhishma’s life was dedicated for his step brothers and nephews. His fight against Parasurama was the result of Amba, the eldest princess whom he took away by force for his step brother, taking refuge under the invincible Rama with the axe.
(While mentioning men like Bhishma, who gave up their married life and have the ultimate control on their emotions, the adjective used is “Oordhwa Retas”. Literally it means one who has directed the flow of the seminal fluid upwards, towards the centre of the forehead. That is said to be the accomplishment of one adept in Yoga.)
Bhishma was a terror for the Pandava army as long as he led the Kauravas. Ironically, it was Bhishma, himself, who advised the Pandavas on the course of action that changed the fate, not only of Bhishma, but of the entire war. We may remember the battle of Arjuna against the grandsire on the tenth day keeping Sikhandi in the front.
Krishna used all the superlative terms while talking about Bhishma on the way. Vyasa says that Krishna was also in a sad mood. When we think how dispassionate the Yadava prince was throughout the terrible war and in the middle of all the atrocities committed in its course, we realize how deep Krishna’s regard was for the veteran Kaurava. He must be thinking how great a person the grandsire was and how unfortunate it was to have brought him down in war through unfair means. Krishna, himself, played a pivotal role in that.
Bhishma waiting for his death
When the Pandavas reached the battle field of Kurukshetra in the company of Krishna the grandsire was still lying on the bed of arrows. Several sages like Vyasa, Narada, Vasishtha, Viswamitra and many others who were considered to be Vedic Seers stood around Bhishma with folded hands and with utmost reverence. Vyasa says that the grandsire was shining like the setting sun with its own rays of light, as though.
Bhishma acknowledged the visiting party and started singing a prayer in praise of Krishna. Krishna spoke in reply. “Are you not suffering from excruciating pain, lying on the bed of arrows? Is not your mind as sharp as ever, in spite? You are well versed in the political science. This yudhishthira, who has lost his heart in performing his duties on account of the death of his dear ones is in need of your valuable advice. Please talk to him on the science of administration which is so important for a ruler like him assuming the charge of the kingdom”.
Bhishma folded his hands and replied. “You are the lord of all the worlds. I shall gladly do what you ask of me. But, I am hurt all over my body and the pain prevents me from thinking clearly and speaking intelligibly. Please help me to get relief from my hurting wounds”.
Krishna said. “Let it be so. You shall not suffer any more from your wounds. May your mind remain as sharp as ever. You may also not feel hunger or thirst henceforth as long as you live”.
By then the sun was about to set on the western sky. So, Krishna suggested. “You may enjoy a good night’s sleep free from all pain. We shall return tomorrow to listen to your wise words.”
Accordingly, Krishna, Satyaki and the Pandavas retired to Hastinapura, to their respective abodes giving the grandsire time for the much needed rest.
(To be continued)
