Significance of Bhishma
Bhishma is a pivotal character in the Mahabharata, known as the son of Ganga and King Shantanu. Revered for his strength, wisdom, and vow of celibacy, he plays a significant role in the Kuru dynasty. His knowledge and loyalty are crucial during the conflict between the Pandavas and Kauravas, where he serves as a leading warrior. Bhishma is characterized by his commitment to dharma, making him a legendary figure who imparts wisdom and moral lessons throughout the narrative.
In Dutch: Bhishma; In German: Bhishma; In Finnish: Bhishma; In Spanish: Bishma
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Bhishma'
Bhishma, a central figure in Hinduism, embodies wisdom and valor in the Mahabharata, renowned for his vow of celibacy, loyalty, and martial prowess, serving as a guiding force in the Kuru dynasty's conflicts.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Bhishma is a person whose words are heard, and they are used to begin a conversation that is presented within the provided text.[1] (2) A wise and virtuous elder of the Kuru dynasty, who is expected to be neutral in the conflict between the Pandavas and the Kauravas.[2] (3) A prominent warrior and grandson of the Kuru dynasty, known for his wisdom and devotion.[3] (4) A great warrior and statesman of the Kauravas, bound by a vow of celibacy, known for his allegiance.[4] (5) A character engaged in the narration, who addresses Rama and expresses his reluctance to fight.[5]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The son of king Shantanu, known for his vow of celibacy and his dedication to duty, playing a significant role in the narrative.[6] (2) A significant figure in the narrative who is related to the Kuru dynasty and plays a role in caring for the Pandavas.[7] (3) The son of Ganga and king Shantanu, a renowned warrior who assisted in the funeral rites of his half-brother Citrangada and guided the family after Vicitra-virya's death.[8]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A character known as the great devotee and philosopher who possessed spiritual vision and knowledge of religious truths.[9] (2) Bhishma is directly referenced in the text and is the character associated with Drona Vasuttama.[10] (3) A revered warrior character who is journeying towards a task of conquest.[11]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A key warrior in the Maha-Bharata known for his prowess, who acknowledged Lord Krishna's strategic role in battle.[12] (2) A wise figure kept by the Lord in a specially erected bed of arrows, whose knowledge enriched the world.[13]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A major character in the Mahabharata, known for his vow of celibacy and his role in the Kuru dynasty.[14]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The uncle who governed the kingdom until the princes came of age.[15]
Jain concept of 'Bhishma'
In Jainism, Bhishma signifies the son of Ganga and King Shantanu, renowned for his formidable strength, reflecting ideals of devotion and sacrifice central to Jain philosophical thought.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The son of Ganga and King Shantanu, noted for his terrifying strength.[16]
The concept of Bhishma in local and regional sources
Bhishma, a pivotal character in the Mahabharata, embodies moral duty and wisdom, guiding Yudhishthira in war and diplomacy, ultimately emphasizing the importance of selfless action, as illustrated by his own celibacy vow and role in significant events.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A pivotal character in the Mahabharata, recognized by Raja Rao for offering insights into Indian identity and experience.[17] (2) Rukmini's father, who ultimately supports her marriage to Krishna in Dvaraka.[18] (3) A character in Mahabharata whose insights reflect the epic's understanding of war and diplomacy, aligning with high moral spirit and responsibility.[19]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) The son of King Shantanu who vowed celibacy and played a significant role in the Mahabharata.[20] (2) Son of Shantanu known for his vow of celibacy and wisdom in the Mahabharata.[21]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Bhisma is a warrior who fought in the battle and gave instructions to Yudhishthira on various subjects.[22] (2) This individual was killed by Arjuna in battle, demonstrating the concept that actions, even those involving violence, can be performed without attachment to personal gain.[23]