Editing Bhishma (section)

==Etymology and epithets==
According to [[Monier Monier-Williams]], the word ''Bhishma'' (Bhīṣma, भीष्म) means "extreme" or "fierce". The word is also used to describe [[Rudra]], the fierce god, as well as the [[Rakshasa]].{{sfn|Monier-Williams|1872|p=712}} In the epic, Devavrata received this as he undertook a fierce or terrible vow (Bhishma pratigya) and fulfilled it.{{sfn|Mani|1975|p=135}}{{sfn|Long|2020|p=91}} Bhishma was given the name Devavrata (देवव्रत) at his birth, meaning one who is devoted to Gods.{{sfn|Monier-Williams|1872|p=432}}

As Bhishma was the only surviving son of Ganga, he was given many epithets which mean "son of Ganga" {{mdash}} ''Gangaputra'' (Gangāputra, गंगापुत्र), ''Gang'' (गंग), Gangasuta (Gangāsuta, गंगासुत) and Gangeya (गांगेय). The word ''Gangadatta'' (Gangādatta, गंगादत्त) means given by Ganga.{{sfn|Gandhi|2004|p=115}} Patronymics of Bhishma include Shantanava (Śāntanava, शान्तनव), Shantanuputra, Shantanusuta and Shantanuja.{{sfn|Mani|1975|p=137}} Bhishma was also referred as:
* Gaurānga (गौरांग) – the one with fair body
* Shvetaveera (Śvetavīra, श्वेतवीर) – a white warrior or the one who is heroic white and has all weapons in white Colour
* Bhārata (भारत) – a descendant of Bharata
* Mahāmahima (महामहिम) – his excellency
* Parshuramashishya (Parśurāmaśiṣya, परशुरामशिष्य) – disciple of [[Parshurama]]
* Pitāmaha (पितामह) – Grandfather (also known as Bhishma Pitamaha; called by Pandavas and Kauravas)
{{sfn|Mani|1975|p=137}}