Brahmastra
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In Hindu scriptures, a Brahmastra (IAST: Brahmāstra, sanskrit: ब्रह्मास्त्र) is a weapon created by Brahma. It is sometimes known as the Brahma weapon. As described in a number of the Puranas, it is considered the deadliest weapon. It is said that when a Brahmastra is discharged, there is no withdrawing back of the weapon. It is believed that the Brahmastra never misses its mark and must be used against a single enemy or army. It is believed to be obtained by meditating on the Creator in Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma, and used only once in a lifetime. Since Brahma is considered as the Creator in Hinduism, it is believed that Brahmastra was created by him for anyone who wished to destroy his or her enemy, who also happened to be a part of his creation. The target, when hit by Brahmastra, would be utterly destroyed.
There are numerous instances within Hindu scriptures where the Brahmastra is used or use is threatened, including:
- The confrontation of Arjuna and Ashwatthama in Mahabharata, where Arjuna retracts his weapon as ordered, but Ashwatthama, unable to do so, instead sends it to attack Arjuna's unborn grandson, Parikshit, who is subsequently saved by Krishna.
- In the Ramayana, Rama nearly uses the Brahmastra or a variant weapon to dry up the ocean out of grief and anger over Sita's kidnapping. Earlier, he threatens to do the same to the world but is stopped by Lakshmana.
- Similarly, in the Ramayana a Brahmastra is used by Rama as the "final blow" against Rakshasa Ravana during their battle in Lanka.
[edit] See also
- Astra (weapon)
- Wars of Hindu Mythology
- History of India
- Hindu scriptures
- Hindu Epics
- Hindu mythology
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