Section CLXVI - Arjuna receives divine weapons from Lord Shiva - Detailed Account
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CLXVI including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
Arjuna, following Yudhishthira's directive, embarked on a journey to the forest to practice penances. There, he encountered a Brahmana who advised him to continue his austerities in order to meet the lord of the celestials. Arjuna diligently followed the Brahmana's instructions, spending months subsisting on fruits, water, and eventually abstaining from food and raising his arms. A fierce encounter ensued with a being in the form of a boar, which Arjuna managed to subdue after a strenuous battle, showcasing his prowess and determination in the eyes of the divine.
After defeating the boar-like creature, Arjuna faced a hunter who challenged him to a duel, during which Arjuna used various weapons but was unable to overcome his opponent. Eventually, the hunter revealed himself to be Lord Shiva, who was pleased with Arjuna's courage and granted him the Pasupata weapon, warning him of its immense power. Arjuna, humbly accepting the boon, was instructed by Shiva to use the weapon only as a last resort in dire situations when all other weapons had failed. With the acquisition of this weapon, Arjuna's martial prowess and divine favor were solidified, setting the stage for his future endeavors.
Through his dedication to penance and his valor in battle, Arjuna proved himself worthy of receiving the powerful Pasupata weapon from Lord Shiva, showcasing his unwavering devotion and skill as a warrior. This divine gift elevated Arjuna's status and capabilities, ensuring his success in future conflicts against formidable foes. The boon granted by Shiva not only enhanced Arjuna's martial abilities but also highlighted his righteous character and unwavering determination in the pursuit of his goals, earning him the respect and admiration of both mortals and deities alike.
Arjuna's encounter with Lord Shiva and the subsequent bestowal of the Pasupata weapon symbolize his journey towards spiritual enlightenment and martial prowess, blending his human qualities with divine blessings. This significant event in Arjuna's life served as a pivotal moment in his quest for righteousness and victory, shaping his destiny and solidifying his reputation as a formidable warrior and noble prince. The connection forged between Arjuna and Lord Shiva through this exchange of power and respect further underscored Arjuna's heroic qualities and unwavering commitment to upholding Dharma in the face of adversity.
Full English translation:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated. If you are looking for authentic sources such as the Sanskrit text or the Full English translation of Mahabharata Section CLXVI - Arjuna receives divine weapons from Lord Shiva - Detailed Account, have a look at the following articles:
Section CLXVI, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
Read this and other chapters online.
Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
Buy the latest edition:
FAQ of Mahabharata, Section CLXVI:
What weapons did Arjuna obtain from Sankara and Indra?
Arjuna obtained the Pasupata weapon from Sankara and various other divine weapons from Indra. The Pasupata weapon was granted by Sankara as a boon.
Daily life: Arjuna receives divine weapons from Lord Shiva - Detailed Account:
The story of Arjuna's quest and eventual attainment of divine weapons from Lord Shiva carries profound lessons for our daily lives. At its core, it teaches the importance of dedication, perseverance, and humility in the pursuit of our goals. Just as Arjuna went to the forest, committed to austerities to gain the favor of the gods, we too must be willing to dedicate ourselves to our objectives, often sacrificing immediate pleasures for long-term gains. His journey underscores that success is not handed to us; rather, it is earned through hard work, discipline, and an unwavering focus on our aspirations.
Furthermore, Arjuna's interaction with the divine, particularly his humility in asking for assistance and his respect towards the beings he encountered, highlights the importance of humility and respect in our own lives. Regardless of our achievements or the power we possess, maintaining respect for others and acknowledging our own limitations is crucial. His experience also shows that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, resilience and faith in oneself can lead to extraordinary outcomes. The divine aid he received was a result of his dedication and humility, teaching us that help often comes when we are committed to our path and open to receiving guidance.
Lastly, the story imparts the lesson of responsibility that comes with power. Arjuna was granted a potent weapon but was also warned about its destructive potential if misused. This serves as a metaphor for the responsibilities that come with any form of power or skill we acquire. It reminds us to wield our abilities wisely, considering the broader impact of our actions on the community and the world at large. Just as Arjuna was cautioned, we must be mindful of how we use our strengths, ensuring they serve a greater good rather than causing harm.