How Did Bhishma Pitamaha Conclude His Life: The Final Moments

Learn how Bhishma Pitamaha's noble soul merged with the divine after 58 days on the bed of arrows.

Bhishma Pitamaha was a great warrior in the Kurukshetra War. He fell on the 10th day, hit by many arrows. He lay on a bed of arrows for 58 days. During this time, he waited for the right moment to leave his body.

Who visited Bhishma Pitamaha while he was on the bed of arrows?

Many important people came to see Bhishma while he lay on the bed of arrows. The most important visitor was Lord Krishna, who came with Arjuna. The other Pandavas also visited him. Many wise men and sages came too. These included Parvata Muni, Narada, Maharshi Dhaumya, and Vyasa. They all respected Bhishma and wanted to be there for him.

What did Bhishma Pitamaha say to Yudhishthira?

Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, came to see Bhishma. Bhishma spoke to him with wisdom and care. He said, 'Yudhishthira, you have faced many hardships, even though you have always done the right thing and are devoted to Lord Krishna. Your family suffered a lot, but remember, everything happens according to the Supreme Lord's plan. Even when things seem unfair, trust in His will. You must govern your kingdom wisely and take care of your people.'

What were Bhishma's views on Lord Krishna?

Bhishma had great respect for Lord Krishna. He said, 'Lord Krishna is the Supreme Being and the cause of everything. He is involved in His divine pastimes, which are hard to understand. Even great sages find His ways mysterious. Though He seems simple, He is very powerful and kind. I am blessed to see Him now. Devotees who think of Him become free from all desires. His grace is wonderful.'

How did Bhishma Pitamaha show his devotion to Krishna?

Bhishma was deeply devoted to Lord Krishna. He said, 'At my death, my mind is pure. I offer my love to Lord Krishna, who remains joyful and accepts a material body to perform His pastimes. I remember His complexion  like a tamala tree and His golden garment. I think of His kindness when He guided Arjuna in battle and even broke His promise (not to take up arms) to protect him. I am devoted to this Lord Krishna. His actions and smile captivated everyone. Now, as I leave this world, I see Him standing before me, giving me peace. My love and devotion are only for Him.'

How did Bhishma Pitamaha end his life?

The time of Uttarayana arrived. This is when the sun starts its northern course, a time waited for by those who control their death. Bhishma fixed his gaze on Lord Krishna, who was standing before him. Krishna’s presence gave Bhishma peace. The pain vanished, and Bhishma became calm.

Bhishma devoted his mind, speech, and sight to Lord Krishna. As he left his body, he merged into the infinite Brahman (Krishna). Everyone present became silent, showing respect. The gods and humans celebrated Bhishma's noble life. Yudhishthira performed the last rites. Afterward, the sages chanted Lord Krishna's names and returned to their hermitages. Yudhishthira, with Krishna, went back to Hastinapur. He comforted his uncle and aunt and began ruling his kingdom justly.

Learnings

Bhishma's acceptance of suffering as the will of the Supreme Lord teaches us to trust in divine plans. This can bring peace during hard times, reducing anxiety and fostering surrender.

1. Trust in Divine Plans: Accept that everything happens for a reason.
2. Devotion: Stay devoted to a higher power for guidance.
3. Duty: Fulfill your responsibilities, no matter the hardships.

When individuals trust in a higher power and fulfill their duties, society becomes more harmonious. Understanding suffering as part of a divine plan promotes empathy and compassion, reducing conflicts and creating a supportive community.

Knowledge Bank

Why Rishis gave Brahma-sthana to Lomaharshana in yajna?

Even though Lomaharshana had not learned the Vedas, Rishis gave him Brahma-sthana in the yajna because of his knowledge and nobility. Rishis have full authority to do such things. They know Vedic principles in depth and never violate them.

Why Upanishads are called Vedanta?

Upanishads are the culmination of the Vedic thought. They contain the essence of the Vedas. They are like a summary of the Vedic principles and are called Vedanta to mean - the culmination of the Vedas.

Other languages: Hindi