Section LXXXVIII - King's Duties to Subjects for Good Governance and Prosperity
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section LXXXVIII including examples of moral lessons in daily life. The Maha-Bharata is one of the largest epics ever written containing roughly 100,000 Sanskrit verses. It deals with the legendary history of ancient India and contains a large number of interwoven tales.
Short summary of the chapter:
In this passage from the Mahabharata, Yudhishthira seeks advice from Bhishma on how a king should behave when desiring more wealth despite already possessing great riches. Bhishma advises that a king should prioritize the well-being of his subjects and protect them with intelligence and power. He suggests that a king should gradually impose taxes on his subjects, treating them like a tigress carrying her cubs with care but firmness. The king should restrain sinful behavior in his kingdom and promote activities that benefit the people, such as agriculture, trade, and cattle-rearing. Bhishma emphasizes the importance of honoring and working with wealthy and influential individuals to advance the interests of the kingdom. Ultimately, he recommends that a king should govern with truthfulness, sincerity, and the support of his friends, treasury, and forces.
Full English translation:
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Section LXXXVIII, online text
English translation by Kisari Mohan Ganguli.
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Mahabharata (English Summary)
by Kisari Mohan Ganguli | ISBN-10: 8121505933
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FAQ of Mahabharata, Section LXXXVIII:
What are the qualities a king should possess according to Bhishma?
A king should be just, protect his subjects, tax wisely, and be compassionate.
How should a king handle his subjects' obedience and taxes?
A king should gradually increase demands, act with care, and conciliate.
Why should a king honor and work with wealthy subjects?
Wealthy subjects are vital for the kingdom's prosperity and stability.
Daily life: King's Duties to Subjects for Good Governance and Prosperity:
The advice given in the story offers wisdom on leadership and personal conduct that can be applied to our daily lives. It emphasizes the importance of caring for those we are responsible for, suggesting that we should support and nurture them without causing harm or undue pressure, just like a bee collecting nectar without harming the flower. We are encouraged to gradually introduce responsibilities or challenges to those we guide, ensuring they can handle these burdens without becoming overwhelmed. This approach fosters growth and resilience.
Moreover, the story highlights the need for fairness and kindness in our interactions. We should be considerate of others' capabilities and circumstances, avoiding imposing unreasonable expectations on them. The narrative also suggests the significance of community and the detrimental effects of selfish or harmful behaviors on societal harmony. By addressing and correcting such behaviors among ourselves and others, we contribute to the collective well-being.
Additionally, the moral underscores the importance of embracing qualities such as truth, sincerity, and self-control. Practicing these virtues can enhance our relationships, build trust, and create a supportive environment conducive to collective success. By leading with compassion, fairness, and integrity, we can inspire positive changes in our communities, enriching the lives of those around us.