Parthasarathy is one among the numerous names of Bhagavan Sri Krishna, specifically as the charioteer of Arjuna in the Mahabharata especially Him narrating the Bhagavad Gita. Parthasarathy name emphasizes his role as the charioteer. The concept of Krishna as Parthasarathy holds profound significance in Hindu philosophy, particularly in the context of the Bhagavad Gita, the sacred text that is part of Mahabharata.
The name "Parthasarathy" is derived from two
components: "Partha," which is an epithet for Arjuna, one of the
Pandava princes, and "Sarathy," which means charioteer. In the
Bhagavad Gita, Krishna serves as Arjuna's charioteer during the Kurukshetra
War, where two groups of cousins, the Pandavas and the Kauravas, face each
other in a monumental conflict.
Krishna, assuming the role of Parthasarathy, becomes not
only the charioteer but also the divine guide and mentor for Arjuna. The
chariot symbolizes the human body, and the reins represent the mind. The
battlefield becomes a metaphor for the challenges and dilemmas faced in the
journey of life.
The Bhagavad Gita is a conversation between Krishna and
Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra and Krishna is Parthasarathy in the
battlefield. The teachings of Krishna in the Gita symbolize profound spiritual
wisdom, ethical dilemmas, and the path to righteousness.
In Hinduism, Krishna is the avatar of Bhagavan Vishnu, the
preserver of the universe. As Parthasarathy, Krishna embodies the divine
essence that guides and preserves the cosmic order.
The chariot, with its horses, symbolizes the unity of
opposites. The horses represent different aspects of the mind and senses, and
Krishna, as Parthasarathy, signifies the need for controlling and harmonizing
these elements to attain spiritual realization.
The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the concept of dharma (duty)
and righteousness. Krishna's teachings guide Arjuna to understand and fulfill
his duties without attachment to the results.
Krishna as Parthasarathy advocates various paths to
spiritual realization, including the path of devotion (bhakti) and the path of
selfless action (karma yoga). These paths symbolize different approaches to
attaining liberation.
Krishna's role as Parthasarathy signifies his transcendence
beyond the material world. He guides individuals to rise above mundane concerns
and connect with the divine.
In essence, Krishna as Parthasarathy symbolizes the divine
presence that guides individuals through the challenges of life, providing
profound spiritual teachings and a roadmap for achieving a harmonious and
purposeful existence.