अम्बोपाख्यान पर्व — परशुराम और भीष्म का युद्ध

Bhishma said Then during the night, 0 great king, having bowed to all the Brahmanas, my fore fathers, all the gods,

To all those beings that walk about in the night, to all elements, earth, water, fir, air and the sky, and to all kings, O lord of earth, I lay down on my bed, and being all alone, I began to reflect (thus).

This terrible battle, between myself and Jamadgnya, being as it is of high and mighty consequence, lasted for many a day.

And yet I have not been able to vanquish, in fight on the field of battle, this twice-born Rama, known as Jamadgnya who is of great might and energy.

I indeed, it lies in my power to vanquish this powerful son of Jamadagni, let the gods, well-pleased, show themselves to me during the night.

Then, O great king, mangled with arrows, as I lay asleep that night on my right, at about dawn came,

Those foremost of Brahmanas by whom I had been raised up when I had fallen down from chariot, and who had held me and comforted me, saying, “Fear not.”

Even they, O great king, showing themselves to me (during my sleep) in a dream, stood around me, and spoke these words; Hear them, O perpetuator of Kuru's race,

Rise up and do not fear, O son of Ganga, you have not the least fear, for we will protect you, O son, who are own body.

Rama, the son of Jamadagni, by no means will vanquish you in battle. (Rather), you will vanquish Rama in battle, O best of Bharata's race.

This well-beloved weapon you will recognize for it was known to you in your previous birth.

It appertains to the lord of all creatures (Brahma) and was manufactured by the divine architect; it is named Prasvapa, O Bharata. It is not known even to Rama nor to any body else on the earth.

Recollect it therefore, O you of mighty arms, and apply it steadily and with all your strength. It will come to you of itself, O you great king and sinless one.

By this weapon, by which O son of Kuru, you will hold in check all persons of mighty energy, Rama will not be killed outright, O king of men.

No crime will therefore attach to you o giver of honors. And this son of Jamadagni will fall asleep, afflicted by the might of this weapon of yours.

Having thus vanquished him, you yourself will raise him up again to the battle-field by that dear weapon, O Bhishma, known as Samabodhana.

Do as we tell you, O son of Kuru, seated on your chariot at day-break. Asleep or dead, We consider it to be the same.

O king, Rama will not die by any means. Apply therefore, this (weapon) Prasvapa, happily brought for you.

Having said this all those best of Brahmanas vanished, O king. They were eight in number, resembling one another in appearance, and shone brightly, having no material bodies.