Mahabharata Shanti Parva – राजैव कर्ता भूतानां राजैव च विनाशकः

Shloka (श्लोक)

राजैव कर्ता भूतानां राजैव च विनाशकः
धर्मात्मा यः स कर्ता सयाद अधर्मात्मा विनाशकः

⚡ Quick Meaning

The shloka emphasizes that kings are both creators and destroyers in the society they govern.

Translations

English Translation

A king is the architect of the beings in his realm and also their destroyer; one who upholds dharma shall be a creator, while one who violates it becomes a destroyer.

हिंदी अनुवाद

राजा अपने राज्य में प्राणियों का निर्माण करता है और उन्हें विनाश करता है; जो धर्म का पालन करता है, वह रचयिता बनता है, जबकि जो इसका उल्लंघन करता है, वह विनाशक बन जाता है।

Commentary

Context

This verse points out the dual role of kings as both creators and destroyers based on their adherence to dharma and is part of the Shanti Parva.

Meaning

It reflects the ethical responsibilities of rulers who shape the fate of their subjects through their actions.

Application

In leadership, this shloka encourages a focus on righteousness as a foundation for positive outcomes and growth.