In the period of exile, as Arjuna engaged in penance to seek the favor of Lord Shiva, a demon named Mudh, sent by Duryodhana, assumed the form of a boar with the intent to harm Arjuna. This monstrous adversary, resistant to ordinary arrows, posed a significant threat.
Witnessing this peril, Lord Shiva, veiled in the disguise of a hunter (Kirat Vesha), appeared on the scene. Arjuna, in his attempt to thwart the demon, shot an arrow, coinciding with Lord Shiva’s own arrow. The divine illusion surrounding Lord Shiva concealed his true identity, leading Arjuna to mistakenly believe that his arrow had vanquished the boar.
A misunderstanding ensued, and Arjuna, unaware that he was confronting Lord Shiva, asserted his triumph over the swine. This disagreement escalated into a fierce battle between Arjuna and the divine entity. Impressed by Arjuna’s courage and prowess, Lord Shiva revealed his true form, acknowledging Arjuna’s valor. In response, Lord Shiva blessed Arjuna with victory over the Kauravas in the impending conflict.
Table of Content
Avatar Info
In a bid to assess the courage of Arjuna, Lord Shiva assumed the Keerat Avatar. During the Pandavas’ period of exile, Arjuna sought to attain Lord Shiva’s powerful Pashupatastra through meditation. While Arjuna was deeply engrossed in his meditation, a demon named Mooka took the form of a boar with the intention of slaying Arjuna.
Incarnation
During a profound penance to win the favor of Lord Shiva, Arjuna found himself interrupted by a loud disturbance. Duryodhana, seeking to harm Arjuna, had dispatched the demon Mooka, cleverly disguised as a boar. In the midst of Arjuna’s meditation, he witnessed the boar being pursued by a Kirat. To his surprise, this Kirat turned out to be Lord Shiva in disguise. In a synchronized moment, both Arjuna and Lord Shiva released their arrows, striking the boar simultaneously.
Place of Avatar
Brave Arjun, under the guidance of Maharishi Vyasji, reached Indrakeel mountain to please Lord Shiva and free his kingdom from troubles. This was an important penance which was intended to make him exhibit his devotion and dedication towards Lord Shiva.
Arjuna, after reaching this sacred mountain region, built a Shivalinga on the banks of Jahavavi. Surrendering to this Shivalinga, he started performing the prescribed puja as instructed by Maharishi Vyasji. He resolved to seek the grace and blessings of Lord Shiva through this penance and started living in celibacy.
Arjuna performed this penance with utmost care in his mind, words, and actions, surrendering his soul to the Lord incarnate. He performed penance with meditation and meditation in front of the Shivalinga and demonstrated his unmatched devotion towards the Lord.
At this crucial moment, Arjuna obtained the grace of Lord Shiva through his sattvic celibacy, penance, and devotion and resolved to achieve his goals with his blessings. From this example we learn that divine blessings can be obtained only through devotion, dedication and penance.
Purpose
Disguised as a Kirat (hunter), Lord Shiva intervened in Arjuna’s life, ensuring his safety when the demon Mooka, sent by Duryodhana, transformed into a boar to harm Arjuna. Arjuna, deeply engrossed in meditation to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings, was disturbed by the demon’s commotion. In response, Lord Shiva, wearing the guise of a Kirat, swiftly appeared on the scene.
Observing the impending danger, Lord Shiva skillfully aimed his arrow alongside Arjuna’s, simultaneously striking down the threatening boar. Arjuna, unaware of Lord Shiva’s true identity, believed the Kirat had helped him in this crucial moment. The divine intervention not only safeguarded Arjuna’s life but also showcased Lord Shiva’s grace and protection.
This episode underscores the profound connection between the devotee and the divine, emphasizing the timely appearance of Lord Shiva to safeguard his ardent devotee, Arjuna, even in disguise. It reinforces the concept of divine guidance and protection during moments of adversity for those who ardently seek the blessings of the divine.
