Shloka 4
Bhīṣma’s Śara-śayyā Stuti to Vāsudeva and Yogic Preparation for Dehotsarga
Body-Relinquishment
विकीर्णाशुरिवादित्यो भीष्म: शरशतैश्लित: | शुशुभे परया लक्ष्म्या वृतो ब्राह्मणसत्तमै:
vikīrṇāṃśur ivādityo bhīṣmaḥ śaraśataiś chinnaḥ | śuśubhe parayā lakṣmyā vṛto brāhmaṇasattamaiḥ ||
Vaiśaṃpāyana said: Like the sun scattering its rays in every direction, Bhīṣma—pierced and torn by hundreds of arrows—still shone with a supreme radiance. The foremost of brāhmaṇas sat around him, encircling him in reverent attendance.
वैशग्पायन उवाच
Educational Q&A
Even amid extreme bodily suffering and the aftermath of war, true greatness is shown through inner steadiness and dharmic dignity. Bhīṣma’s continued ‘radiance’ suggests moral authority and spiritual composure that remain intact despite physical ruin, and the presence of eminent brāhmaṇas underscores the sanctity of counsel, restraint, and righteous reflection.
Bhīṣma lies grievously wounded, pierced by countless arrows, yet he appears splendid—likened to the sun spreading its rays. Foremost brāhmaṇas sit around him in attendance, framing the scene as one of reverent guardianship and preparation for the profound instruction that Bhīṣma will give in the Śānti Parva.