JAMADAGNI Parasrama, the son of Jamadagni, who was divested to his hand\’s axe and powers by Kaghuvira, sings the divine praises of Guru Nanak Dev. (Swayye M. Pahle Ke, p. 1389) Because of the wickednéss of Kshatriya kings, the mother Earth made representation to Brahma. She was tÃ¥ken to Mahavishnu, who promised to take an incamation as the son of Jamadagni and punish the wicked kings. Jamadagni, the son of Richika, was a pious sage, and one of the Saptarishis.
He married Renuka, the daughter of king Prasenajit, who was contented to partake in his ascetic life. Once Renuka \’went to bathe in the river, she saw Chitraratha, the prince of Mrittikavati, sporting with his wife in the water. She felt envious of their enjoyment and retumed to the hermitage with defiled thoughts. Perceiving her agitation, her husband Jamadagni was exceedingly wrath. He commanded his sons to kili their mother.
It was only Parashurama, -who obeyed his order and with his axe struck off his mother\’s head. For this service, Parashurama received the boon of invincibility.Once the king Kartavirya came to the hermitage ofJamadagni and in his absence carried off his cow Kamadhenu. Parashurama was also not in the house. When he came to know of it, he followed the king and killed him in the battle.
The sons of the deceased king, in great rage, came to the hermitage and killed the sage Jamadagni. When Parashurama came home and saw his lifeless father, he swore that he would extirpate the whole race of Kshatriyas.In the above reference from Guru Granth Sahib, Raghuvira or Ramachandra is shown as having been victorious over Parashurama the son of Jamadagni. Parashurama was destroying the race of Kshatriyas, when Ramchandra in an encounter with him divested him of his axe. This account is given in Ramayana. See : Parashurama in Das Avatars
References :
1. Kohli, Surindar Singh (ed), Dictionary of Mythological References in Guru Granth Sahib, 1993
Jamadagni is a revered sage in Hindu mythology, known for his wisdom, spiritual prowess, and significant role in the Vedic and epic traditions. He is one of the Saptarishi (Seven Great Sages) and is deeply connected to the lineage of Bhrigu, a prominent sage created by Brahma.
Key Aspects of Jamadagni:
Lineage and Birth:
- Jamadagni was born to Sage Richika and Satyavati, who were blessed by divine intervention. His birth was considered auspicious, and he inherited profound spiritual knowledge from his ancestors.
Marriage to Renuka:
- Jamadagni married Renuka, a virtuous and devoted woman. Together, they had five sons, the youngest being Parashurama, who is celebrated as one of Lord Vishnu’s avatars.
Role in Mythology:
- Jamadagni is known for his deep understanding of the Vedas and his ability to wield powerful mantras. He played a crucial role in shaping the destiny of his son, Parashurama, who fought against unrighteousness and corrupt rulers.
- His life also includes dramatic events, such as the story of Renuka’s chastity and the confrontation with Kshatriyas that led to his death.
Symbolism:
- Jamadagni represents the ideals of discipline, righteousness, and devotion to dharma. His teachings emphasize the importance of spiritual practices and the cosmic order.
