Mahabharata Udyoga Parva – न हि कामात्मना राज्ञा सततं शठबुद्धिना

Shloka (श्लोक)

न हि कामात्मना राज्ञा सततं शठबुद्धिना
नृशंसेनाति लुब्धेन शक्याः पालयितुं परजाः

⚡ Quick Meaning

A king driven by desire and shrewdness cannot protect his subjects from a greedy person.

Translations

English Translation

A king, who is taken by desires and possesses a cunning mindset, cannot be effective in safeguarding his citizens from the manipulations of unethical individuals. It emphasizes the limitations that arise from unguarded desires and cunningness.

हिंदी अनुवाद

एक राजा, जो इच्छाओं से प्रेरित है और चालाक सोच रखता है, अपने प्रजा को अनैतिक व्यक्तियों की दखल से सुरक्षित नहीं रख सकता है। यह अनियोजित इच्छाओं और चालाकी से होने वाली सीमाओं पर बल देता है।

Commentary

Context

This shloka illustrates the need for virtue and wisdom in leadership, warning against desire-driven governance.

Meaning

The message emphasizes that personal flaws of the ruler can jeopardize the welfare of the state and its people.

Application

Leaders should govern with integrity and clarity of purpose to ensure the protection of their citizens from opportunistic influences.