Mahabharata Udyoga Parva – अर्थसिद्धेः परं धर्मं मन्यते यॊ महीपतिः

Shloka (श्लोक)

अर्थसिद्धेः परं धर्मं मन्यते यॊ महीपतिः
ऋतां च कुरुते बुद्धिं स धर्मेण विरॊचते

⚡ Quick Meaning

A king who values righteousness above material success shines brightly through his wisdom.

Translations

English Translation

This shloka conveys that a wise king prioritizes dharma over merely attaining wealth or riches. Such a leader acts in accordance with the truth and justice, reflecting the essence of righteousness and hence stands out in the eyes of his subjects.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक बताता है कि एक बुद्धिमान राजा धन या समृद्धि से अधिक धर्म को प्राथमिकता देता है। ऐसा नेता सत्य और न्याय के अनुसार कार्य करता है, जो धर्म के सार को दर्शाता है और अपने विषयों की नजरों में विशेष बन जाता है।

Commentary

Context

This verse is part of a discourse on leadership qualities, underscoring the importance of ethical governance and moral integrity in kingship.

Meaning

It highlights that true respect and admiration from subjects come when a ruler successfully merges wealth accumulation with ethical principles, establishing a balanced regime.

Application

Leaders today can draw lessons from this, recognizing that integrity coupled with strategic thinking fosters not just wealth but also loyalty and respect from their people.