Parashurama – The Devotion and Obedience of a Son

Sage Jamadagni was once performing a sacred yajna in his ashram and needed water to complete the ritual. He sent his wife, Renuka, to fetch water from the river Ganga. At the river, Renuka noticed some gandharvas, celestial beings, joyfully enjoying themselves. Lost in their enchanting presence, she lingered a little too long, causing her to return to the ashram late.

When Jamadagni saw her delay, he was filled with anger, suspecting a lapse in her devotion. Enraged, he ordered his sons to kill their mother as punishment. The sons were shocked and stood silent, unable to carry out such a terrible command. This only further enraged Jamadagni.

At that moment, Parashurama, the youngest and most devoted son of Jamadagni, entered the ashram. Without question or hesitation, Parashurama obeyed his father’s command and raised his axe, swiftly fulfilling the order by killing his mother and his hesitant brothers.

As Jamadagni’s anger subsided, he was pleased with Parashurama’s unwavering obedience and devotion. As a reward, he granted Parashurama a boon, allowing him to ask for anything he wished. Parashurama humbly requested that his mother and brothers be brought back to life, free from any memory of this tragic event.

Jamadagni, moved by Parashurama’s compassion, granted his wish, restoring Renuka and the brothers to life. Thus, Parashurama’s loyalty and devotion saved his family from the wrath of his father.

**Moral:** True devotion is marked by loyalty and selflessness, but it must also be tempered with compassion. Parashurama’s story reminds us that respect for one’s duties and love for one’s family can coexist, and that ultimate devotion lies in understanding and forgiveness.