A Classical Dictionary of Hindu Mythology and Religion, Geography, History, and Literature c5.1475

c5.1475

This breaking of the bow of Siva brought about a very curious incident, which is probably an interpolation of a later date, introduced for a sectarian purpose. Parasu-rāma, the sixth incarnation of Vishnu, the Brāhman exterminator of the Kshatriyas, was still living upon earth. He was a follower of Siva, and was offended at the breaking of that deity’s bow. Notwithstanding that he and Rāma were both incarnations of Vishnu, he challenged Rāma to a trial of strength and was discomfited, but Rāma spared his life because he was a Brāhman.