Mahabharata Udyoga Parva – अधर्मयुक्तं च न कामयेत; राज्यं सुराणाम अपि धर्मराजः

Shloka (श्लोक)

अधर्मयुक्तं च न कामयेत; राज्यं सुराणाम अपि धर्मराजः
धर्मार्थयुक्तं च महीपतित्वं; गरामे ऽपि कस्मिंश चिद अयं बुभूषेत

⚡ Quick Meaning

A righteous king does not desire a kingdom obtained through unrighteous means.

Translations

English Translation

A true king, like Dharma Raja, does not seek a kingdom that is acquired through unfair methods, even if it belongs to divine beings. Instead, he values genuine governance based on Dharma and righteousness, irrespective of its lesser stature in society.

हिंदी अनुवाद

धर्मराज जैसे सच्चे राजा का धर्म है कि उसे उन अनर्थों से प्राप्त राज्य की इच्छा नहीं होनी चाहिए, चाहे वह स्वर्गीय beings का क्यों न हो। इसके बजाय, वह सच्चे धर्म और नैतिकता पर आधारित नेतृत्व को महत्व देता है, चाहे उसका सामाजिक स्तर कम क्यों न हो।

Commentary

Context

This shloka appears in the Udyoga Parva, highlighting the importance of Dharmic leadership amidst the chaos of human ambition.

Meaning

It emphasizes that a king must uphold principles of righteousness, rather than succumbing to the allure of power through unjust means.

Application

This shloka serves as a reminder for leaders to prioritize moral values over power, ensuring just governance for the well-being of society.