Significance of Bed of arrows
The Bed of arrows refers to the state of Bhishma Pitamaha after he was mortally wounded in battle, symbolizing his valor, sacrifice, and devotion. This term serves as a metaphorical expression for Bhishma's final moments, where he lies on a bed made of arrows that signify his heroic status and the circumstances of his defeat. It represents both his suffering and the tranquility he finds in accepting death, embodying the honor associated with warriors who uphold their duties.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Bed of arrows'
In Hinduism, the "Bed of arrows" symbolizes Bhishma's mortally wounded state, representing his valor, sacrifice, and acceptance of death while illustrating the harsh realities of battle and the warrior's noble identity.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The place where Bhishma lay, symbolizing his valor and sacrifice.[1] (2) Metaphor reflecting Bhishma’s condition on the battlefield, symbolizing his endurance and heroic acceptance of his fate.[2] (3) A metaphor for the state of Kripa, lying injured among the arrows shot by Arjuna, symbolizing defeat.[3] (4) A figurative expression denoting Bhishma's deathbed, made of arrows, symbolizing his warrior identity and impending demise.[4] (5) The bed upon which Bhishma lies after being mortally wounded in battle, symbolizing his valor and devotion.[5]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A reference to Bhishma's position in the Mahabharata, where Pippalada visited him.[6] (2) The dying position of Bhishma, which symbolizes sacrifice and the culmination of his duties as a warrior.[7] (3) A metaphorical reference describing Bhishma’s state of lying on a bed made from arrows, symbolizing his severe injuries and state of tranquility in the face of death.[8]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A metaphorical description of the state in which Rama and Lakshmana are found, implying they are surrounded and wounded by arrows.[9] (2) A metaphorical description of the battlefield where Rama and Lakshmana lie, overwhelmed by the attacks of their enemies.[10] (3) A metaphorical description of Lakshmana's fallen state after the battle.[11]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The specific location where Bhishma lies, symbolizing his valor and circumstances during his final moments.[12]
From: Agni Purana
(1) The state in which Bhishma lay after being mortally wounded, symbolizing his acceptance of death and his legendary prowess in battle.[13]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The poignant imagery representing Bhishma's final resting place, filled with arrows from the battle, reinforcing his sacrifice.[14]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) Referring to Bhishma Pitamaha, who is wounded and lying down in the battlefield, symbolizing both his physical state and his pivotal role in the war.[15] (2) Symbolizes Bhishma Pitamaha's state during his last moments where he lay on a makeshift bed formed by arrows, reflecting his status and the circumstances of his death.[16] (3) The metaphorical resting place Bhishma Pitamaha finds himself on after being mortally wounded.[17]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The setting from which Bhishmadeva prays to Krishna, illustrating the depth of his devotion even in suffering.[18]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) The specially constructed place for Bhisma, symbolizing a deliberate choice by the Lord for prolonged contemplation and knowledge dissemination.[19]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions
(1) The state in which Bhishma was placed after being mortally wounded, symbolically resting on arrows while he waited for the auspicious moment to die.[20]
The concept of Bed of arrows in local and regional sources
The "Bed of arrows" symbolizes Bhishma’s endurance amidst suffering, depicting his grievous state after being wounded yet alive. It illustrates the deeper themes of sacrifice and resilience in facing adversity.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A metaphorical reference to Bhishma's state of being wounded, where his life remained despite great suffering.[21]