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Sharanga: FAQ & Sources
शार्ङ्गSharanga is the celestial bow of Vishnu. The Ramayana says the divine craftsman Vishwakarma made two great bows, Pinaka for Shiva and Sharanga for Vishnu, and that Parashurama handed Sharanga to Rama to string. Vishnu is called Sharngapani, the one who holds Sharanga.
Borne byविVishnu
Frequently asked questions
What is the name of Vishnu's bow?
Sharanga (also spelt Sharnga). Vishnu is called Sharngapani, the one who holds it.
Who made the Sharanga bow?
The Ramayana says Vishwakarma made it, together with Shiva's bow Pinaka.
Did Rama use Sharanga?
In the Bala Kanda, Parashurama hands Vishnu's bow to Rama, who strings it and so shows that he is Vishnu.
Sources
- Valmiki Ramayana, Bala Kanda, sargas 75-76
- Vishnu Purana, Book 1, ch. 22
- Vishnu Sahasranama, closing verse
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