Meaning & Lineage
Meaning: Bhishma means "the one of the terrible oath"; born Devavrata, he earned this name through his vow.
Why Was This Name Given?
Devavrata took a vow of lifelong celibacy so his father could marry — an oath so terrible the heavens renamed him Bhishma, and granted him the power to choose the hour of his own death.
The Story
Bhishma gave up his crown and his future for his father’s happiness, taking a vow so absolute the gods themselves were moved. He lived to see the great war divide the family he sacrificed everything to protect.
His name stands for duty carried to its very limit, and a will that even death must wait upon.
Numerology: 3 · Rashi: Makara · Nakshatra: Shravana · Lucky Colour: Blue · Scripture: Mahabharata
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Bhishma famous?
For his "terrible vow" of celibacy and his boon to choose the time of his own death.