The Mahabharata recounts the long feud that ultimately erupted into open war between the Pandava brothers and the Kauravas. A key figure in the story was Draupadi, who had emerged fully formed and divinely beautiful from a sacrificial fire, and who was married to all five of the Pandavas. Draupadi was deeply devoted to Lord Krishna, and this is a tale of how Lord Krishna saved her by finding compassion in the heart of her enemy.

When the war began, the military commander for the Kauravas was Bhishma Pitamah, renowned for his wisdom, valor and skill in battle. Nevertheless, in the first days of fighting the Kauravas were not successful, and Bhishma was accused of secretly favouring the Pandavas. This wounded his pride, and he therefore vowed that the next day in battle not a single Pandava would survive.

Lord Krishna heard this vow, and he knew that Bhishma would accomplish what he said unless there was divine intervention. Wanting to protect Draupadi, Krishna took the form of an ordinary farmer, came to Draupadi, and instructed her to follow him.

Krishna led her to the battle camp of the Kauravas, and they came to a group of people waiting outside the tent where Bhishma was meditating. Only sadhus and married women were allowed to enter this tent, as it was believed that those people were trustworthy, and would not steal secrets for the enemy.

Following Lord Krishna’s instructions, Draupadi entered the tent, knelt before Bhishma, and asked for his blessing. Bhishma, lost in his meditation, put his hand on her head without looking and said, “Saubhagyawati Bhava,” a blessing that literally means ‘May you always be fortunate,’ but which is conventionally given to married women with the meaning, ‘May your husband always live with you.’

And thus it was that the next day Bhishma failed in his effort to kill the five Pandave brothers, for they were protected by his own blessing of compassion.