6th Avatar Parushurama
Parushurama Avatar is the warrior.
In Parashurama Avatar, Sriman Narayana incarnates as a Sage Warrior. He was born to restore the declining dharma.
6th AVATAR – PARUSHURAMA AVATAR
In Parashurama Avatar, Sriman Narayana incarnates as a Sage Warrior. He was born to Jamadagni and Renuka and his appearance was very significant. His purpose was to avenge all Kshatriyas (warriors) who had become arrogant and were suppressing the sages and priests. His actions were to restore the declining dharma. He is always seen carrying an axe, which was presented to him by Lord Shiva.
During Parashurama’s time, the social order of mankind had deteriorated due to a powerful King called Kartavirya. According to mythology, King Kartavirya and his subjects stole from Parasuramas parents a sacred cow called Kamadhenu (cow of plenty) and exiled his Mother Renuka. When Jamadagni was made aware of this atrocity, he pursued the king and killed him and brought Kamadhenu back.
The king’s son heard of his father’s death, and returned to the Jamadagni’s home with an army and killed him. Seeking revenge, Parashurama swore that he would drive all Kshatryas from the earth. He fulfilled his vow and in twenty one battles destroyed all the Kshatryas on earth.
THE ORIGIN OF PARUSURAMA’S NAME
Originally, he was named Rama. Rama was a brilliant archer, and in gratitude for this skill he travelled to the Himalayas where for many years he performed penance to Lord Shiva.
Shiva was very happy with Rama’s devotion, and when a huge war broke out between the Gods and the Asuras, Shiva ordered Rama to fight on behalf of the Gods.
Emerging victorious; Shiva rewarded Rama with many gifts and weapons, including the Parashu axe, which became Rama’s weapon of choice. From thereon, Rama was known as Parashurama, “Rama with the axe.”