Section CXXX - Sacred Rivers and Tirthas: Legends of Divine Blessings
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section CXXX including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
Lomasa, in his narration to the son of Bharata's race, describes a sacred spot where mortals who breathe their last are said to go to heaven. This spot was blessed by Daksha during a sacrifice, ensuring that those who die there earn a place in the afterlife. The location is near the disappearing point of the Sarasvati river, known as Vinasana, which holds significance in Hindu mythology. It is believed to be a gateway to the kingdom of the Nishadas and a place where the river reemerges at Chamashodbheda.
The area also includes other sacred rivers such as the Sindhu, where the sage Agastya was accepted by Lopamudra, and the tirtha known as Prabhasa, favored by Indra for its ability to absolve sins. Notable sites like the region of Vishnupada, the river Vipasa where the sage Vasistha liberated himself, and the holy spot of Kasmeera frequented by sages, are all found in this region. It is also mentioned that during the waning of every yuga, the god Siva can be seen with Uma and his followers in this area.
The Manasasarovara lake, the gate of Videha, Vatikhanda, and Ujjanaka tirtha are highlighted as important locations in this sacred region. The lake Kausava, where lotuses called Kausesaya grow, and the hermitage of Rukmini, where she conquered anger, are also significant spots in this area. The river Vitasta, the holy waters of Jala and Upajala, and the story of king Usinara surpassing Indra through a sacrifice are also part of the rich history and mythology connected to this place. Indra and Agni testing Usinara's merit by presenting themselves in the forms of a hawk and a pigeon add depth to the tales of this sacred spot.
Full English translation:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated. If you are looking for authentic sources such as the Sanskrit text or the Full English translation of Mahabharata Section CXXX - Sacred Rivers and Tirthas: Legends of Divine Blessings, have a look at the following articles:
Section CXXX, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
Read this and other chapters online.
Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | 31,635 words | ISBN-10: 8121505933
Buy the latest edition:
FAQ of Mahabharata, Section CXXX:
What is the significance of the sacred spot where mortals breathe their last according to Lomasa?
Lomasa explains that those who die at this spot go to heaven, as blessed by Daksha during a sacrifice. The spot is also associated with various sacred rivers and legendary events.
What remarkable occurrences are linked to the holy region described by Lomasa?
The region is connected to sacred rivers like Sarasvati and Vipasa, and events involving sages like Vasistha. It is also where various gods like Siva are said to appear, and where sacrifices are performed for family welfare.
Daily life: Sacred Rivers and Tirthas: Legends of Divine Blessings:
The story tells us about the sacredness of certain places and the importance of performing sacrifices and rituals to achieve tranquility and liberation from sins. It highlights the value of protecting those in need, as illustrated by the story of king Usinara, and emphasizes the power of devotion and commitment to righteous actions.
In daily life, this can be implemented by acknowledging and respecting the sanctity of nature and special places. We should also strive to help and protect those who are vulnerable and in need of support, just like the pigeon sought protection from the king. Engaging in selfless acts and seeking personal growth through meditation and reflection can lead to inner peace. Additionally, by creating and participating in community rituals or traditions, we can foster a sense of belonging and connection to something greater than ourselves. Lastly, the story encourages us to confront our negative emotions and work towards overcoming them, as Rukmini did with her anger, thus promoting personal development and harmony with others.