Mahabharata Shanti Parva – हस्तिनॊ ऽशवाश च गावश चाप्य उष्ट्राश्वतर गर्दभाः

Shloka (श्लोक)

हस्तिनॊ ऽशवाश च गावश चाप्य उष्ट्राश्वतर गर्दभाः
अधर्मवृत्ते नृपतौ सर्वे सीदन्ति पार्थिव

⚡ Quick Meaning

This shloka describes how all creatures suffer under a king who rules unjustly.

Translations

English Translation

All living beings—elephants, horses, cows, camels, and donkeys—experience distress under a king who acts immorally; their suffering reflects the direct consequences of poor leadership.

हिंदी अनुवाद

सभी जीव-जंतु—हाथी, घोड़े, गाय, ऊंट और गधा—एक अधर्मी राजा के अधीन दुखी होते हैं; उनका दुःख उस नेतृत्व की सीधी परिणति को दर्शाता है।

Commentary

Context

This verse highlights the responsibility of kingship in ensuring the welfare of all living beings, part of the teachings in the Shanti Parva.

Meaning

A king’s moral failures lead to widespread suffering, indicating how deeply intertwined authority and ethical conduct are.

Application

This shloka encourages leaders to embody justice and righteousness for the wellbeing of all under their rule.