Bhishma’s Devotion towards Lord Krishna during the Kurukshetra War: An Insight into Their Unseen Relationship

In the epic Mahabharata, Bhishma and Lord Krishna share a unique and profound relationship marked by devotion, reverence, and mutual respect. While Bhishma knew Lord Krishna to be none other than Narayan, the incarnation of Vishnu, their interactions throughout the Kurukshetra War reveal a deep bond that transcends mere human connection.

Bhishma’s Recognition of Lord Krishna

From the very beginning, Bhishma’s recognition of Krishna as Narayan is evident. Upon receiving the news from Narada about the origins of Krishna and Arjuna as the ancient sages NaraNārāya?a, Bhishma acknowledged Krishna’s divine nature. During his mission as an envoy to Hastinapur, Bhishma strongly supported his mission, trying to dissuade Duryodhan from war. His actions towards Krishna were those of a devoted devotee, expressing deep respect and reverence.

Worship and Devotion

Bhishma’s thoughts on Krishna during the Kurukshetra War were akin to a devout follower addressing the supreme god. When Krishna attempted to attack him due to Arjuna’s mild fighting ways, Bhishma welcomed him with a heartfelt prayer:

“Come, come, O Lord of the gods, O thou that hast the universe for thy abode. I bow to thee, O thou armed with mace, sword, and Saranga. O lord of the universe, forcibly throw me down from this excellent chariot, O thou that art the refuge of all creatures in this battle. Slain here by thee, O Krishna, great will be my good fortune both in this world and the next. Great is the respect thou payest me, O Lord of the Vrishnis and the Andhakas. My dignity will be celebrated in the three worlds.”

This prayer reflects Bhishma’s deep spiritual connection with Krishna, viewing him as a divine figure rather than a mere human warrior.

Goetterdammung: Bhishma’s Lapse and Krishna’s Criticism

Bhishma’s devotion to Krishna also comes to a critical testing ground when Krishna criticizes his conduct regarding the dice game and Duryodhana. Krishna points out Bhishma’s failure to prevent the inevitable destruction caused by the dice game and suggests that Bhishma was the root cause of this mass destruction:

“Thou art the root of this great slaughter on earth. Thou wilt behold Duryodhana slain to-day. A wise minister who treadeth in the path of righteousness should restrain a king that is addicted to the evil of gambling. That wretch again of his race who transgresseth duty should be abandoned as one whose intelligence hath been misdirected by destiny.”

Yet, despite Krishna’s sharp criticism, Bhishma’s devotion to his duties and his father Shantanu remains unshaken. He prays to Krishna to give him guidance on matters of dharma and good governance, recognizing the divine nature of Krishna and seeking advice from his divine guide:

“O lord of the earth, enquire of him about the four branches of knowledge in respect of morality, profit, pleasure, and salvation. About the sacrifices and the rites laid down for the four orders. About the four modes of life, and about the kingly duties in full. When Bhishma, that foremost one of Kurus’ race will disappear from the world, every kind of knowledge will disappear with him. It is for this that I urge thee to go to him now.”

This prayer further underscores Bhishma’s deep reverence and submission to Krishna as a divine figure.

Seeking Enlightenment and Departure

As Bhishma nears the end of his life, he seeks Krishna’s permission to leave his body and reach his original abode of the Vasus. Krishna grants him this permission, highlighting Bhishma’s devotion and the mutual respect between them. The conversation between Bhishma and Krishna in this final moment is a celebration of the divine connection between a human and a divine being:

“vAsudeva uvAcha anujAnAmi bhIShma tvAM vasUnApnuhi pArthiva na vRRijinaM ki~nchinmayA dRRiShTaM mahAdyute rAjarShe mArkaNDeya ivAparaH ntena mRRityustava vashe sthito bhRRitya ivAnataH”

Here, Bhishma is granted permission to leave his body and return to his divine origins, emphasizing the unbreakable bond and the ultimate submission of Bhishma to the will of Lord Krishna.

Conclusion

The relationship between Bhishma and Lord Krishna during the Kurukshetra War is a testament to the deep spiritual and divine connection between a human and a divine being. Bhishma’s unwavering devotion, respect, and submission to Krishna are evident throughout the epic. They represent a unique and profound relationship that transcends human understanding, highlighting the divine aspect of Krishna and the divine devotion of Bhishma.