Mahabharata Shanti Parva – यः कृशाश्वः कृश गवः कृश भृत्यः कृशातिथिः

Shloka (श्लोक)

यः कृशाश्वः कृश गवः कृश भृत्यः कृशातिथिः
स वै राजन कृशॊ नाम न शरीरकृशः कृशः

⚡ Quick Meaning

The lean horse, cow, servant, and guest do not define physical weakness but rather the status of a king.

Translations

English Translation

This shloka indicates that the term “thin” applies not simply to physical form, but suggests that an individual’s status, particularly that of a ruler, reflects their strength and impact in society rather than mere appearance.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक बताता है कि “पतला” शब्द केवल शारीरिक रूप को नहीं दर्शाता है, बल्कि किसी व्यक्ति की स्थिति, विशेष रूप से शासक की स्थिति, उनके समाज में शक्ति और प्रभाव को दर्शाती है, न कि केवल रूप को।

Commentary

Context

This verse plays on the linguistic nuances of strength versus appearance, key topics in the Shanti Parva.

Meaning

It invites reflection on how true strength and dignity transcend mere physical attributes.

Application

This encourages leaders to look beyond superficial qualities and understand deeper attributes of leadership and strength.