Bhishma

Bhishma: The Steadfast Grandfather of the Mahabharata

Introduction

Bhishma, also known as Pitamaha Bhishma (Grandfather Bhishma), is one of the most revered and complex characters in the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. He is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to dharma (righteousness), his formidable martial prowess, and, most significantly, his solemn vow of celibacy, which ultimately shaped the course of the epic. Though not typically considered a deity in the same vein as Vishnu or Shiva, Bhishma is often regarded as a divine figure owing to his extraordinary virtues and the circumstances of his birth. His key attributes are his wisdom, strength, self-sacrifice, and devotion to the Kuru dynasty. Iconographically, he is often depicted as a wise, elderly warrior, clad in armor and lying on a bed of arrows. Bhishma’s significance in Hinduism lies in his embodiment of duty, honor, and the consequences of one’s choices, serving as a moral compass throughout the epic.

Etymology and Names

• Bhishma: The name “Bhishma” literally translates to “He of the Terrible Vow” or “He who made a terrible vow.” This refers to his famous oath of lifelong celibacy and service to the throne of Hastinapura, taken to appease Satyavati, the stepmother of his father, Shantanu.

• Other Names and Titles:

  • Devavrata: His birth name, meaning “devoted to the gods.”
  • Gangaputra: Meaning “son of Ganga,” as he was born to the river goddess Ganga.
  • Shantanuputra: Meaning “son of Shantanu,” referring to his mortal father, King Shantanu.
  • Pitamaha: Meaning “Grandfather,” a title earned due to his age, wisdom, and respect within the Kuru family.
  • Maharathi: A title denoting an exceptional warrior, capable of fighting against thousands of soldiers simultaneously.

Mythological Origins

• Birth Story: Bhishma was born to King Shantanu and the river goddess Ganga. Ganga agreed to marry Shantanu on the condition that he would never question her actions. She bore him seven sons, all of whom she drowned in the river as soon as they were born, freeing them from earthly existence. When she was about to drown their eighth son, Shantanu could no longer bear it and questioned her. Ganga, as per their agreement, left Shantanu, taking the child with her. This child was Devavrata.

• Lineage:

  • Father: King Shantanu of the Kuru dynasty.
  • Mother: Goddess Ganga, the personification of the river Ganga.
  • Grandfather (Paternal): King Pratipa.
  • Great-grandfather (Paternal): King Dilipa.
  • Step-Mother: Satyavati, whose sons Vichitravirya and Chitrangada became the future heirs to the Kuru throne.

Bhishma is not typically considered an avatar of any particular deity. However, some interpretations view him as a manifestation of the Vasus, particularly Dyu, who were cursed to be born as mortals. Ganga drowned the previous seven Vasus to free them from the curse.

Major Scriptures and References

• Mahabharata: The primary source of information about Bhishma is the Mahabharata, particularly the Bhishma Parva which details his role as commander-in-chief of the Kaurava army during the Kurukshetra war. His teachings on dharma, politics, and statecraft, delivered from his bed of arrows (the Anushasana Parva and Shanti Parva), are considered some of the most important sections of the epic.

• Puranas: Bhishma is mentioned in several Puranas, including the Vishnu Purana and Bhagavata Purana, which recount his lineage and life story, often mirroring the narrative presented in the Mahabharata.

• Vedas and Upanishads: While Bhishma is not directly referenced in the Vedas or Upanishads, the underlying concepts of dharma, karma, and moksha, which are central to his character, are foundational to these texts. His life exemplifies the struggle to uphold dharma in the face of complex moral dilemmas, a theme that resonates with the philosophical inquiries of the Upanishads.

Roles and Functions

Bhishma’s role is primarily as a guardian and protector of the Kuru dynasty. He is not a cosmic deity involved in creation or destruction. However, his actions have profound consequences for the fate of the Kuru line and the entire world.

• Association with Dharma: Bhishma is fundamentally associated with dharma. His unwavering commitment to his vows, his adherence to the rules of warfare (even when his opponents break them), and his teachings on righteous conduct all reinforce his role as a champion of dharma. However, he is also portrayed as being bound by his duty to the throne, even when the ruler is adharmic, leading to moral complexities and tragic consequences.

• Association with Karma: Bhishma’s life is a testament to the workings of karma. His birth, his vow, and his eventual death are all shaped by his past actions and the curses upon him. He suffers greatly despite his righteousness, illustrating the complex and sometimes seemingly unjust nature of karma.

• Association with Moksha: Bhishma’s eventual liberation (moksha) is a significant element of his story. After the Kurukshetra War, he lies on a bed of arrows, waiting for the auspicious time to depart. During this time, he imparts invaluable wisdom to Yudhishthira on dharma, politics, and the path to liberation. His peaceful death, achieved through his own will, symbolizes the ultimate triumph over suffering and the attainment of moksha.

Avatars and Manifestations

Bhishma is generally not regarded as an avatar or incarnation of any principal Hindu deity. However, some interpretations posit him as an aspect or manifestation of the Vasus, specifically Dyu, cursed to live a mortal life. This connection underscores his inherent righteousness and his eventual release from earthly bonds.

Symbols and Iconography

• Depiction in Art: Bhishma is most often depicted as an elderly, wise warrior, with a long white beard and clad in full armor. He is commonly shown lying on a bed of arrows during his final days after the Kurukshetra War.

• Posture: Whether standing or lying on the arrow bed, his posture typically exudes wisdom and strength. He is often shown with his hand raised in a gesture of blessing or assurance.

• Weapons: Although a formidable warrior, Bhishma is rarely depicted wielding weapons, particularly after the war. Instead, the arrows piercing his body often symbolize his suffering and his eventual liberation.

• Symbolic Meanings:

  • The Bed of Arrows: Represents his unwavering commitment to his duty, his suffering, and his ultimate sacrifice. It is a symbol of his extraordinary self-control and endurance.
  • White Beard: Symbolizes his age, wisdom, and experience.
  • Armor: Represents his warrior status and his role as a protector of the Kuru dynasty.

Temples and Worship

Unlike many deities, there are not dedicated temples or widespread formal worship practices specifically for Bhishma. However, he is highly revered and remembered, particularly during the Bhishma Ashtami festival, which commemorates his death anniversary.

• Common Rituals: On Bhishma Ashtami, devotees often offer prayers to Bhishma, make offerings of water (tarpan) in his name, and read or listen to passages from the Mahabharata that narrate his story.

• Role in Daily Worship: Bhishma’s story is frequently recounted and contemplated during daily prayers and religious discourses, serving as a reminder of the importance of dharma, duty, and self-sacrifice.

• Community Rituals: In some regions, enacting scenes from the Mahabharata, particularly those involving Bhishma, forms an integral part of community festivals and religious performances.

Cultural Impact

Bhishma’s character has had a profound impact on Indian culture, influencing various forms of art, literature, dance, and music.

• Influence on Literature: Bhishma’s story is a recurring theme in Indian literature, inspiring numerous plays, novels, and poems. His character serves as a lens through which to explore complex moral dilemmas and the nature of duty.

• Influence on Art: Bhishma’s depiction on the bed of arrows is a common subject in Indian art, appearing in paintings, sculptures, and murals. These artworks often portray him as a figure of immense suffering, strength, and wisdom.

• Influence on Dance and Music: Episodes from Bhishma’s life are often incorporated into traditional Indian dance dramas and musical performances, particularly those based on the Mahabharata.

• Representation in Modern Media: Bhishma has been portrayed in numerous movies, television shows, and graphic novels, further cementing his place in popular culture. Modern interpretations often grapple with the ethical complexities of his actions and his role in the Kurukshetra War.

Comparative Theology

• Comparisons with Other Deities: While not strictly a deity, Bhishma can be compared to figures like Yudhishthira (known for his righteousness) or Hanuman (known for his devotion and loyalty). Like these figures, Bhishma embodies specific virtues that are highly valued in Hinduism.

• Interpretations in Different Hindu Traditions: While generally revered across different Hindu traditions, the emphasis on specific aspects of Bhishma’s character may vary. For example, Vaishnavas might highlight his devotion to dharma and his eventual liberation, while Shaivas might focus on his asceticism and self-control.

• Comparisons Across Religions: The concept of a figure bound by duty and sacrifice, even at great personal cost, can be found in other religions as well. Examples include figures like Jesus Christ (Christianity), who sacrificed himself for humanity, or various bodhisattvas (Buddhism) who postpone their own enlightenment to help others.

Philosophical Interpretations

• Vedanta: In Advaita Vedanta, Bhishma’s life can be interpreted as an example of how attachment to worldly duties (dharma) can bind one to samsara (the cycle of birth and death). However, his eventual detachment and the attainment of moksha suggest the possibility of liberation through self-knowledge.

• Samkhya: From a Samkhya perspective, Bhishma’s suffering can be understood as the result of the interaction between Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter). His ability to endure suffering and ultimately transcend it points to the possibility of disentangling Purusha from Prakriti.

• Bhakti: In Bhakti traditions, Bhishma is often viewed as a devotee of dharma and an exemplar of righteous conduct. His unwavering commitment to his vows and his eventual liberation are seen as evidence of the power of devotion to lead one to spiritual fulfillment.

Bhishma’s enduring legacy lies in his embodiment of complex moral and philosophical principles. His story continues to inspire reflection on the nature of duty, the consequences of choices, and the possibility of liberation even amidst immense suffering. He remains a central figure in understanding the ethical landscape of the Mahabharata and a reminder of the enduring power of righteousness.