Mahabharata Shanti Parva – तरस्तम उद्विग्नहृदयं हाहाभूतम अचेतनम

Shloka (श्लोक)
तरस्तम उद्विग्नहृदयं हाहाभूतम अचेतनम
कषणेन विनशेत सर्वं यदि राजा न पालयेत
⚡ Quick Meaning
If a king does not protect his subjects, chaos and destruction will ensue.
Translations
English Translation
This shloka emphasizes the dire consequences of a ruler’s negligence. It asserts that when a king fails to act responsibly, fear and disorder take hold of the heart of his subjects, leading to destruction in just a moment.
हिंदी अनुवाद
यह श्लोक बताता है कि एक शासक की लापरवाही के कितने भयानक परिणाम हो सकते हैं। जब राजा उत्तरदायी नहीं होता है, तो उसके subjects के हृदय में भय और अराजकता समा जाती है, जिससे क्षण में विनाश होता है।
Commentary
Context
This verse is found in the Shanti Parva, highlighting the king’s responsibilities and the consequences of failing to uphold them.
Meaning
The essence of the shloka lies in the belief that a king’s duty is to ensure the safety and protection of his subjects, as their welfare reflects his governance.
Application
This wisdom underlines the importance of responsible leadership, urging rulers to act with diligence for the welfare of their people to avoid chaos.
