In Hindu scriptures, a Brahmastra (IAST: Brahmāstra, sanskrit: ब्रह्मास्त्र) is a weapon created by Brahma. It is sometimes known as the Brahma Astra(Astra means 'missile weapon'). As described in a number of the Puranas, it is considered the deadliest weapon. It is said that when a Brahmastra is discharged, there is niether a counter attack nor a defense that may stop it. It is believed that the Brahmastra never misses its mark and must be used with very specific intent against an individual enemy or army, as the target will face complete annihilation. It is believed to be obtained by meditating on the Creator in Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma, and used only once in a lifetime. Since Brahma is considered as the Creator in Hinduism, it is believed that Brahmastra was created by him for the purpose of upholding Dharma and Satya, to be used by anyone who wished to destroy an enemy who would also happen to be a part of his (Brahma's) creation. The target, when hit by Brahmastra, would be utterly destroyed.
There are numerous instances within Hindu scriptures where the Brahmastra is used or use is threatened, including:
The confrontation of Arjuna and Ashwatthama in Mahabharata, where Arjuna retracts his weapon as ordered, but Ashwatthama, unable to do so, instead sends it to attack Arjuna's unborn grandson, Parikshit, who is subsequently saved by Krishna.
Similarly, in the Ramayana a Brahmastra is used by Rama as the "final blow" against RakshasaRavana during their battle in Lanka.
