Five Miraculous Arrows of Bhishma Pitamah - Story of Mahabharata
This occurred during the Kurukshetra war between the Kauravas and the Pandavas. Bhishma Pitamah, on the Kaurava side, was engaged in the conflict. However, Duryodhana, the eldest of the Kauravas, suspected that Bhishma Pitamah did not intend to harm the Pandavas. Duryodhana believed that Bhishma Pitamah was incredibly powerful and could easily defeat the Pandavas.
Consumed by this thought, Duryodhana approached Bhishma Pitamah. He said, "You do not seem to want to harm the Pandavas, so you are not using any powerful weapons." Bhishma responded, "If you believe so, I will eliminate all five Pandavas tomorrow. I possess five miraculous arrows, which I intend to use in the battle tomorrow."
Upon hearing this, Duryodhana said, "I do not trust you. Therefore, please give me these five miraculous arrows. I will keep them safe in my chamber." Bhishma obliged and handed over the arrows to Duryodhana.
Meanwhile, Shri Krishna learned of this. He informed Arjuna about the situation. Arjuna was concerned about the impending danger and pondered how to overcome this challenge. Shri Krishna reminded Arjuna of a previous instance where he had saved Duryodhana from gandharvas, and Duryodhana had promised Arjuna that he could ask for anything in return.
He advised, "This is the opportune moment. Go to Duryodhana and ask for the five miraculous arrows, based on his earlier promise. This could save your life and the lives of your brothers." Arjuna found Shri Krishna's advice sound. He recalled Duryodhana's pledge, remembering that in those times, upholding one's word was of utmost importance; breaking promises was considered a violation of the code. Arjuna reminded Duryodhana of his promise, and requested the arrows. Duryodhana was unable to refuse.
True to his word, Duryodhana gave the arrows to Arjuna. Thus, Shri Krishna protected his devotee, the Pandavas.
