Understanding Lord Krishna's Role Post-Mahabharata War: A Closer Look at His Actions and Teachings

One of the intriguing questions often asked about Lord Krishna is whether he went into deep meditative sleep after the Mahabharata War and refused to see anyone until Bhishma's funeral rites were over. While the Vedic mythology does not explicitly mention such an episode, an examination of the historical and mythological context of the period post-war provides valuable insights.

After the conclusion of the Mahabharata War, Lord Krishna was indeed in a reflective state of mind, but the reasons were different from the hypothesis suggested. Lord Krishna, the Pandavas, and their allies, including the king of Panchala, Dhrishtadyumna, were deeply concerned about the future of their nation. The post-war period was crucial for reestablishing the dharma (righteousness) and governing the kingdom.

Chidings and Reflections

On one notable day, the Pandavas, including Arjuna, Yudhishthira, and Bheema, sought Lord Krishna's guidance. In an honest and candid discussion, Lord Krishna chided them for their lack of raj-dharma, or royal virtue. He pointed out that they were losing touch with the principles of righteous governance. His concern was profound and well-founded; Bhisma Pitamaha, a legendary figure known for his profound wisdom, was nearing his end. Bhisma Pitamaha was not only a revered grandfather figure but also a repository of knowledge regarding the statecraft and righteous governance (raj-dharma).

Knowledge Transmission

To prevent the loss of this invaluable knowledge, Lord Krishna, being the charioteer and advisor to the Pandavas, arranged for the Pandavas to visit Bhisma Pitamaha for a final discourse. This meeting was significant for both sides. Lord Krishna facilitated this arrangement, ensuring that the essence of Raj-dharma was preserved for the future generations. Bhisma Pitamaha, in his wisdom, imparted the entire scope of Raj-dharma knowledge to the Pandavas, who accepted it with reverence and gratitude.

During this important meeting, Bhisma Pitamaha also recited the famous Vishnusahasranama, a thousand names of Lord Vishnu. This hymn is a significant part of the Mahabharata, and Bhisma Pitamaha's recitation of it stands as a testament to his deep spiritual understanding and his role in preserving Hindu scriptures.

Conclusion: A Guide for Governance and Morality

Lord Krishna's actions after the Mahabharata War were driven by a commitment to maintain the dharma and uphold the righteousness of governance. His reflective state of mind was a concern for the well-being of his people and the continuity of knowledge. The episode of visiting and listening to Bhisma Pitamaha, and the transmission of Raj-dharma knowledge and the Vishnusahasranama, highlight the importance of wisdom, moral integrity, and the preservation of knowledge.

Bhisma Pitamaha's death, which necessitated the funeral rites, brought a sense of closure to the events that had transpired. Lord Krishna's presence and guidance in ensuring the preservation of Raj-dharma knowledge through the Pandavas underscored his role as a mentor and a guide for righteousness in the years to come.