How Many Times Did Krishna Get Down from His Chariot to Threaten Bhishma, and What Does the Act Signify?

During the epic battle of Kurukshetra, the moral and spiritual leader, Lord Krishna, played a pivotal role. Yet, the question often arises about the frequency of his actions, particularly when he got down from his chariot to deal with Bhishma. This article delves into the significance of this act and its impact on the war of righteousness.

Lord Krishna and Bhishma's Dilemma

Bhishma, the revered grandsire and a great warrior, was a key figure in the Kaurava-Pandava conflict. He embraced a vow of Brahmacharya and had a sacred duty to protect the throne of Hastinapur. However, his pledge to Satyavati to safeguard her lineage also meant he could not openly favor the Pandavas despite his affection for them. This complexity is often marked by his dual nature, where loyalty to dharma and personal allegiance come into conflict.

The Conflict and Krishna's Intervention

The conflict intensified when Duryodhana continuously insulted Bhishma, accusing him of favoring the Pandavas. Enraged, Bhishma vowed to eliminate the Pandavas, driving into the battlefield filled with righteous anger. His actions created a breach in dharma, as his gunfire disregarded the sanctity of women and righteousness.

Breaking the Oath for a Greater Cause

Recognizing the severity of the situation, Lord Krishna, a symbol of wisdom and righteousness, broke his own oath of non-violence to intervene. This act signified the supreme importance of dharma over personal vows. When Bhishma refused to listen to reason, Krishna took a practical stand, embodying the essence of dharma. He symbolically threatened Bhishma by lowering himself to the level of taking the wheel of his chariot, which served as a powerful message to him to adhere to the principles of righteousness.

The Significance of Krishna's Actions

Bhishma, a warrior of unparalleled honor, had complete control over his destiny. Yet, his adharma (unrighteousness) in battle led to a crisis. Lord Krishna's actions were not just about breaking an oath but about reinforcing the supremacy of dharma. This act of Krishna is a profound lesson in understanding the importance of dharma over personal vows and the need for leadership to act when righteousness is in peril.

The Doctrine of Duty: A Lesson from the Sages

/topics/sages-of-ancient-india?refc285e

Additionally, it's essential to highlight that Vyasa, the sage who narrated the epic, was also a symbol of dharma. The fact that he is honored as one of the seven sages (Saptrishi) in Indian classical tradition underscores his importance. Vyasa, who authored the Mahabharata, demonstrated through various characters that adherence to dharma can be achieved even by the mightiest warriors like Arjuna, Ashwathama, and Drona, who all made decisions that aligned with righteousness.

Conclusion

In the cosmic battle of Kurukshetra, the actions of Lord Krishna and Bhishma reflect a deeper understanding of dharma. While Bhishma's oath was a binding personal promise, Krishna's interventions underscored the greater truth of maintaining dharma, even if it meant breaking an oath. This narrative is a testament to the irreplaceable role of dharma in guiding our actions, especially in times of crisis.