The Srimad Bhagavatam is a timeless repository of wisdom, spiritual teachings, and divine narratives. Among the many events it recounts, the interaction between Shree Krishna and the Pandavas—especially the moment involving Yudhishthira’s questioning of Shree Krishna regarding Dharma (duty) and the profound insights imparted by Bheeshma, the patriarch of the Kuru family—holds great significance. This section of the Srimad Bhagavatam brings together themes of duty, righteousness, devotion, and the complexities of life and death.
This blog provides details of Yudhishthira's inner turmoil, Shree Krishna's guidance, Bheeshma's unwavering devotion and understanding of Dharma, his remarkable role during the battle and the aftermath of the Kurukshetra war.
Shree Krishna's Meditation and Guidance to Yudhishthira
Shree Krishna’s Meditation
A powerful moment occurred when Yudhishthira saw Shree Krishna in meditation. Yudhishthira was perplexed since the whole world offered their devotion to Shree Krishna. This prompted Yudhishthira to ask Shree Krishna whom He was meditating upon. Shree Krishna responded in His divine humility that He was meditating on Bheeshma, who lay on a bed of arrows, thinking of Shree Krishna. Furthermore, Shree Krishna explained to Yudhishthira that He meditated upon Bheeshma because it was his duty to reciprocate his devotion.
Bheeshma’s Devotion and Unwavering Loyalty
Bheeshma was a great devotee of Shree Krishna. He internally meditated on Shree Krishna's Braj Leelas, embodying a deep spiritual connection. Despite knowing the Kauravas would inevitably lose, he chose to serve as their commander-in-chief out of devotion to Shree Krishna. Bheeshma’s decision to fight on the losing side was his way of honoring Shree Krishna, as he wished to glorify Him by showing that even the great Bheeshma could not alter the outcome when Krishna and Arjun were involved. Bheeshma had the boon of choosing the time of his death and, after receiving numerous arrows, lay on a bed of arrows for nearly six months, waiting for the right moment to depart from the world.
Yudhishthira’s Remorse and Shree Krishna’s Guidance
A few days later, Yudhishthira, overwhelmed by remorse and guilt, began questioning his actions. He wondered if his desire for the kingdom had been the cause of so much destruction, leading to the deaths of countless warriors, including his family.
Shree Krishna reassured Yudhishthira that it was not his fault. He encouraged Yudhishthira to rise above his remorse through knowledge, wisdom, and understanding of Dharma. Shree Krishna emphasized the importance of knowing one’s duty in life and upholding righteousness. Yudhishthira, in his innocence, sought to understand Dharma better and asked Shree Krishna from whom he should learn this knowledge. In response, Shree Krishna directed Yudhishthira to Bheeshma, who was the greatest embodiment of Dharma and was about to depart from this world.
The Meeting with Bheeshma
The Pandavas' Visit to Kurukshetra
Shree Krishna, Yudhishthira, and the rest of the Pandavas traveled to Kurukshetra to meet Bheeshma. As the Pandavas approached, a host of sages from across the universe gathered, signaling the importance of this meeting. Among them were sages like Durvasa, Narad, Vasishtha, and others who had come to witness this extraordinary moment.
The reverence for Bheeshma was palpable as the Pandavas offered their respects to him, along with Draupadi, who also bowed to him. Shree Krishna remained close to Bheeshma's head and Bheeshma asked for him. Shree Krishna mentioned it was his habit to remain hidden, finally revealed himself, and stood before Bheeshma.
Bheeshma, unable to bow forward due to being on a bed of arrows, offered his respect by shedding a few tears. Feeling extremely thirsty after lying there for six months, he asked for water. Shree Krishna signaled to Arjun, who understood the gesture and shot an arrow into the earth, causing Ganges water to spout out and fall onto Bheeshma, quenching his thirst. Afterward, Bheeshma complained of a headache, as no arrows were piercing his head. He asked for a pillow, and Shree Krishna again signaled Arjun, who shot three arrows under Bheeshma's head, providing him with the support he needed.
Bheeshma's Teachings on Dharma and Draupadi's Laughter
At that time, Yudhishthira asked Bheeshma about the secret of Dharma. Bheeshma explained it in great detail. Toward the end, Bheeshma recited one thousand names of Lord Vishnu and declared that the highest form of Dharma he knew was to develop love and devotion at the feet of the divine figure standing by Yudhishthira’s side, Shree Krishna. This resolved Yudhishthira's question but Draupadi started laughing.
Noticing this, Bheeshma asked Yudhishthira why his wife was laughing in such an unusual manner, as a cultured woman should not behave this way. Yudhishthira, unsure of the reason, suggested that Bheeshma ask Draupadi directly. When Bheeshma inquired, Draupadi explained that she was laughing because of Bheeshma's huge lecture on Dharma.
Draupadi's Question and Bheeshma's Revelation
Draupadi, questioning Bheeshma, reminded him of the time when she was humiliated in the Kaurava assembly, asking where his Dharma was at that moment. Bheeshma acknowledged his mistake and admitted that he had been indebted to Duryodhan after accepting his food. He explained that after being pierced by Arjuna's arrows, the blood had drained and his intellect was finally pure.
Bheeshma’s Final Moments
Bheeshma turned to Shree Krishna and expressed his desire to hand over his unmarried daughter before departing. Shree Krishna, surprised, questioned Bheeshma, a Brahmachari since birth, how he could have an unmarried daughter. Bheeshma explained that his intellect, his unmarried daughter, had never engaged in worldly matters or accepted anyone. He feared that in his final moments, as death approached, his intellect might not remain pure, and thus he wished to offer her to Shree Krishna before he departed.
Shree Krishna agreed to Bheeshma's request, and in a final act of devotion, Bheeshma offered his intellect at Krishna's feet. With Shree Krishna before him, the great Bheeshma peacefully departed from the world. As his soul left his body, celestial sages and gods gathered to pay their respects, acknowledging Bheeshma's immense devotion and righteousness.
Conclusion
The teachings from this segment of the Srimad Bhagavatam serve as powerful reminders of the importance of Dharma, devotion, and selfless service in one’s life. Yudhishthira’s journey from remorse to understanding reveals the complexities of righteousness, especially when decisions are made under extreme circumstances. Shree Krishna, the Supreme Being, guides Yudhishthira to the ultimate teacher of Dharma, Bheeshma, whose life exemplifies the highest moral conduct. Bheeshma’s final words about the importance of devotion to Shree Krishna illuminate the essence of Dharma, showing that regardless of the complexities and challenges one faces in life, surrender to the Divine and dedication to righteous duty are the ultimate paths one must follow.
Call to Action
Immerse yourself in divine wisdom and reflect on the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita by participating in the upcoming Gita Jayanti event, which will be held in person at the Radha Krishna Temple of Dallas or online. For more life-transforming spiritual insights, explore various teachings by Swami Mukundananda on his YouTube channel.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of Shree Krishna meditating on Bheeshma?
Shree Krishna, as the Supreme Being, meditates on Bheeshma to acknowledge the latter’s deep devotion and righteousness. Bheeshma’s unwavering dedication to duty and his faith in Shree Krishna, despite being on the opposing side in the war, makes him worthy of Krishna’s meditation and respect.
2. Why does Yudhishthira feel remorse after the war?
Yudhishthira feels guilt because he believes that his desire for the kingdom led to the destruction of his family and the deaths of many innocent people. His feelings of remorse reflect the heavy burden of leadership and the consequences of war.
3. How does Shree Krishna guide Yudhishthira in overcoming his remorse?
Shree Krishna advises Yudhishthira to transcend his remorse through understanding Dharma. He directs him to learn from Bheeshma, the greatest authority on Dharma, who can help him understand the principles of duty and righteousness.
4. What lesson does Bheeshma impart to Yudhishthira about Dharma?
Bheeshma explains that the highest form of Dharma is devotion to the Divine. He stresses that love and devotion to the Divine are the most righteous acts one can perform in life, above all other duties.
5. Why does Draupadi laugh during Bheeshma’s lecture on Dharma?
Draupadi laughs because she finds it ironic that Bheeshma, who had been present when she was humiliated in the Kaurava court, is now lecturing about Dharma. Bheeshma admits his mistake and acknowledges that his loyalties were compromised at that time.
Resources
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