Chronology of Lord Krishna: The Epic Journey of Hinduism's Most Revered Figure
Lord Krishna, one of Hinduism's most revered figures, is believed to have lived on earth for 125 or 126 years. His life is intricately detailed in various ancient texts, such as the Bhagavata Purana, making his story one of the most fascinating in the religious narrative of India.
Early Life: Birth and Childhood
Lord Krishna's journey began in a small village called Gokul, where he was born under extraordinary circumstances. According to Hindu texts, he was born in a prison cell to his mother Devaki, who was kept under strict surveillance by Kamsa, the tyrannical king of Mathura. Krishna, the eighth and eighth-most important child, was born under the protection of his foster father, Nanda, and foster mother, Yashoda.
Adulthood and Impact
At the age of 16, Krishna moved to Mathura, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life. Here, he engaged in several battles against his enemies, including Kamsa, who was his father-in-law, and Jarasandh. These events, detailed in various Puranas, are not only significant in terms of Krishna's heroism but also in understanding the socio-political landscape of ancient India.
Settlement at Dwaraka
After defeating Kamsa, Krishna left Mathura and established a new kingdom on the shores of the Arabian Sea. This new city, known as Dwaraka, symbolized Krishna's divine power and his commitment to the welfare of his people. The construction of Dwaraka was a testament to Krishna's architectural prowess and leadership skills, ensuring that his subjects lived in comfort and security.
Midlife and Major Events
Throughout his life, Krishna was involved in several major events. At the age of 75, Krishna was present during the incident of Draupadi's Vastraharan, where he witnessed the infamous stripping of Draupadi in the court of the Pandavas and Kauravas. Despite his advanced age, Krishna's wisdom and presence were crucial in guiding the situation.
By the time of the Kurukshetra war, Krishna was 89 years old. As a charioteer to Arjuna, he delivered the legendary Bhagavad Gita, which is considered one of the most important philosophical works of Hinduism. The war illustrates Krishna's role as both a teacher and a warrior, guiding his disciples through the ultimate battle of righteousness.
End of the Yadu Dynasty and Krishna's Departure
With time, prophecies began to unfold about the end of the Yadu Dynasty. Krishna faced numerous challenges, including the curse of Gandhari, who believed that Krishna was responsible for the deaths of her sons. Additionally, the birth of the destructive Māusala, a bolt of iron, foretold the end of the dynasty. Samba, a prince of the Yadu line, in the form of a girl, engaged the sages, leading to the summoning of the Māusala's curse.
As the prophecy came to fruition, the city of Dwaraka faced numerous woes, including the birth of donkeys from cows and a surge in the population of rats. This chaos eventually led to the deaths of many Yadu princes in a battle involving the Māusala. Balaram, Krishna's elder brother, left the human realm to return as Sheshnag, symbolizing the end of the Yadu Dynasty.
Ultimately, Krishna fell asleep under a tree by the banks of the Prabhas river, where he was struck by an arrow fired by the hunter Jarā. Krishna, recognizing the past life of Jarā, forgave him. Krishna then ascended to Vaikuntha Loka, the eternal abode of Vishnu, and Dwaraka sank into the ocean, symbolizing the end of an era.
Conclusion
The life of Lord Krishna is a tapestry woven with threads of heroism, wisdom, and divine intervention. From his birth amidst the prison walls to the tragic end of the Yadu Dynasty, his story continues to inspire and engage billions of devotees worldwide. The chronology of his life remains a testament to the enduring legacy of this revered figure in Hindu mythology.