Mahabharata Shanti Parva – मातरं पितरं वृद्धम आचार्यम अतिथिं गुरुम

Shloka (श्लोक)

मातरं पितरं वृद्धम आचार्यम अतिथिं गुरुम
कलिश्नीयुर अपि हिंस्युर वा यदि राजा न पालयेत

⚡ Quick Meaning

A king must protect all living beings, especially parents, elders, teachers, and guests.

Translations

English Translation

This shloka emphasizes the responsibility of a ruler to protect not only their subjects but also respectful figures such as parents, teachers, and guests, highlighting the moral and ethical duties essential in governance. If a king fails in this duty, it leads to chaos and injustice.

हिंदी अनुवाद

यह श्लोक शासक की जिम्मेदारियों पर प्रकाश डालता है कि उन्हें न केवल अपने प्रजा की, बल्कि माता-पिता, शिक्षकों और अतिथियों की भी रक्षा करनी चाहिए। यदि राजा इस कर्तव्य में चूकता है तो इससे अराजकता और अन्याय फैलता है।

Commentary

Context

This verse is part of the Shanti Parva, which discusses the importance of righteous rule and moral duties a king must uphold for a functioning society.

Meaning

The essence of this shloka revolves around the idea that a just ruler’s protection extends to all beings, reflecting the values of compassion and morality essential in leadership.

Application

Leaders today can learn from this verse by ensuring the protection and respect of all individuals in their community, which is vital for stability and progress.