Bhishma Ashtami, Bhishma Ekadashi 2026: Path to Ancestral Grace and Salvation
According to the Indian lunar calendar, the month of Magha is considered extremely sacred. The Ashtami and Ekadashi tithis of the Shukla Paksha in this month are deeply associated with Bhishma Pitamah, the great patriarch of the Mahabharata. As an astrologer, I am explaining the spiritual mysteries behind these festivals and their role in mitigating planetary afflictions.
Bhishma Pitamah: Another Name for Sacrifice
In the Mahabharata, Devavrata, the son of Ganga, not only renounced his right to the kingdom for the sake of his father Shantanu's happiness but also took a formidable vow of lifelong celibacy. Due to this unwavering resolve, he came to be known as Bhishma. Blessed with the boon of 'Ichcha Mrityu' (death at will), he waited on a bed of arrows until the arrival of Uttarayana Punyakala to leave his mortal coil.
Bhishma Ashtami
It was on Magha Shuddha Ashtami that Bhishma left his physical body and attained salvation. Performing Bhishma Tarpan on this day provides relief from Pitru Doshas (ancestral afflictions). Generally, ancestral rites are performed only by those whose fathers have passed away; however, since Bhishma was a life-long celibate, all people of the world are considered his progeny. Therefore, everyone can offer Tarpan to him on this day.
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Bhishma Ekadashi and Vishnu Sahasranama
This day is also known as Jaya Ekadashi. The Vishnu Sahasranama Stotram is the profound discourse given by Bhishma Pitamah to Yudhishthira in the presence of Lord Krishna while lying on the bed of arrows. These are not just names of the Almighty, but a powerful shield that grants mental peace and health in this Kali Yuga.
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Astrological and Spiritual Benefits of Vishnu Sahasranama:
- Planetary Peace: According to Vedic Astrology, the regular chanting of Vishnu Sahasranama has the power to reduce the malefic effects of all nine planets, acting as a potent remedy especially for Mercury and Saturn afflictions.
- Mental Peace: For those struggling with stress and insomnia, listening to or reciting this stotra makes the mind stable and calm.
- Prosperity and Fortune: Chanting the thousand names of Lord Vishnu invokes positive energy in the home and removes poverty.
- Removal of Sins: As stated by Bhishma Pitamah himself, this stotra frees a person from all sins and bonds, leading them toward Moksha (liberation).
Astrological Glossary
- Naishthika Brahmachari: A person who observes the vow of celibacy throughout their entire life.
- Ichcha Mrityu: The power to attain death only at one's preferred time.
- Sharatalpa (Bed of Arrows): A bed constructed entirely of arrows.
- Tarpan: The act of satisfying ancestors using water and sesame seeds (Til).
Conclusion
The path of Dharma shown by Bhishma Pitamah is an inspiration for today’s generation. These two days remain etched in our culture as a tribute to Bhishma’s sacrifice and devotion to righteousness. It is our duty to express gratitude by offering Tarpan on Ashtami and remembering the wisdom (Vishnu Sahasranama) he bestowed upon us on Ekadashi.
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