Section 12 - Bhima's Safety from Ashvatthama's Wrath: Tale of Brahmashira
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section 12 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:
Vaishampayana narrates how Drona's son, Ashvatthama, approached Krishna in Dvaraka, seeking to exchange his father's celestial weapon, brahmashira, for Krishna's discus. Despite Krishna offering him other weapons, Ashvatthama was determined to obtain the discus. Krishna challenged him to wield the discus, but Ashvatthama failed, leading Krishna to question his intentions and loyalty. Ashvatthama confessed that he sought the discus to fight Krishna himself, but upon failing, he left Dvaraka with resentment and riches.
Krishna, realizing Ashvatthama's malevolent intentions, warns Yudhishthira about the danger posed by the angry and cruel warrior who possesses knowledge of the powerful brahmashira weapon. Krishna emphasizes the importance of protecting Bhima from Ashvatthama, who harbors feelings of enmity and vengeance. The narrative highlights the significance of Krishna's discus, symbolizing his unmatched power and protection against formidable foes like Ashvatthama. Yudhishthira is urged to be vigilant and cautious in the face of Ashvatthama's threat.
The story showcases the rivalry between Ashvatthama and Krishna, with Ashvatthama's desire for the discus as a means to challenge Krishna's supremacy. Krishna's refusal to hand over the discus reflects his unwavering loyalty to his friends and allies, as well as his commitment to righteousness and protection of his loved ones. Ashvatthama's departure from Dvaraka with resentment and wealth foreshadows his future actions driven by anger and vengeance. Yudhishthira is advised to be prepared for a confrontation with the wrathful and wicked-souled Ashvatthama.
The exchange between Krishna and Ashvatthama highlights the themes of power, loyalty, and conflict within the Mahabharata epic. Krishna's refusal to yield to Ashvatthama's demands underscores his divine status and unwavering principles. The narrative serves as a precursor to the impending battle between the Pandavas and Kauravas, with Ashvatthama's knowledge of the brahmashira weapon adding a dangerous element to the conflict. The story sets the stage for the climax of the Mahabharata war, where divine weapons and personal vendettas will shape the fate of the characters involved.
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 12 - Bhima's Safety from Ashvatthama's Wrath: Tale of Brahmashira, have a look at the following articles:
Section 12, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section 12:
-Why did Ashvatthama ask Krishna for his discus?
Ashvatthama wanted the discus to fight against Krishna, seeking invincibility. -
What did Krishna offer Ashvatthama instead of his discus?
Krishna offered Ashvatthama his bow, dart, and mace as alternatives. -
Why was Ashvatthama unable to wield Krishna's discus?
Ashvatthama, despite his efforts, could not move or wield Krishna's discus.
Daily life: Bhima's Safety from Ashvatthama's Wrath: Tale of Brahmashira:
The story above, rich with mythological context, showcases several principles that can be applied in daily life. At its core, it emphasizes the importance of humility and self-awareness. Ashvatthama's desire to possess Krishna's powerful discus, despite being unable to wield it, serves as a metaphor for the futility of coveting what we cannot handle or what is not meant for us. Instead, focusing on improving oneself and understanding our limitations is a more fruitful endeavor.
Another lesson to be drawn is the value of wisdom and guidance from those more experienced, represented by Drona's advice to his son. Despite his immense power, Ashvatthama's lack of discretion and humility leads him to seek what would ultimately bring no true benefit, demonstrating how unchecked ambition can be one's downfall.
Lastly, the story underlines the integrity and wisdom of Krishna, who, despite being capable of giving away his powerful weapon, understands its implications and chooses not to. This teaches us to carefully consider our actions and their potential impact on ourselves and others, encouraging responsible and thoughtful decision-making.
In daily life, integrating these lessons means practicing humility, seeking growth in personal capabilities rather than envying others, listening to the wisdom of those who are more experienced, and always considering the broader consequences of our desires and actions.