Shiva presents the
Pashupata to Arjuna
The Pashupatastra (IAST: Pāśupatāstra, sanskrit: पाशुपतास्त्र), in Hindu mythology, is the irresistible and most destructive personal weapon of Shiva, discharged by the mind, the eyes, words, or a bow. Never to be used against lesser enemies or by lesser warriors, the Pashupatastra is capable of destroying creation and vanquishing all beings. PashupatiNath is the most important of all Shiva temples located in Kathmandu, Nepal. Pashupatastra is the weapon of PashupatiNath.
This Pashupatastra was used in the Mahabharata war by Arjuna to kill Jayadratha. It was used against Lakshmana by Meghanada. It returned without causing any harm since it can be used only to uphold Dharma. Shiva is also known as Shambhu, Pashupatinath, Hara, Pinakadhrik, bearer of the axe and Mrityunjaya, conqueror of death. He is the spouse of Shakti, the goddess. He also is represented by Mahakala and Bhairava, the terrible, as well as many other forms including Rudra.[1]
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