Mahabharata Shanti Parva – वेदा वेदाङ्गवित पराज्ञः सुतपस्वी नृपॊ भवेत

Shloka (श्लोक)

वेदा वेदाङ्गवित पराज्ञः सुतपस्वी नृपॊ भवेत
दानशीलश च सततं यज्ञशीलश च भारत

⚡ Quick Meaning

A king should be learned, wise, generous, and dedicated to sacrifice.

Translations

English Translation

This shloka describes the ideal qualities of a king: he should possess knowledge of the Vedas and other sciences, be wise and generous, as well as dedicated to the practice of yajna (sacrifice). Such qualities ensure that the ruler is just and effective in his governance.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक एक राजा की आदर्श गुणों का वर्णन करता है: उसे वेदों और अन्य विज्ञानों का ज्ञान होना चाहिए, बुद्धिमान और दानशील होना चाहिए, और यज्ञ के अभ्यास के प्रति समर्पित होना चाहिए। ऐसे गुण सुनिश्चित करते हैं कि शासक न्यायप्रिय और प्रभावी हो।

Commentary

Context

This verse is found in the Shanti Parva, depicting the attributes that should guide a ruler’s actions and decisions, crucial for a thriving community.

Meaning

It conveys that an enlightened ruler must embody knowledge, wisdom, and generosity to maintain the welfare of the subjects and the kingdom.

Application

Modern leaders can learn from this shloka to cultivate virtues of knowledge, generosity, and dedication, contributing to a harmonious and just society.