Section LIX - Origin and Importance of Kings in Hindu Epics
Book index: Mahabharata (English)
This page contains a summary of the Mahabharata Section LIX 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 the Krita age, there was no king or sovereignty, and all people lived peacefully, protecting each other. However, as time passed, people began to deviate from righteousness due to error and covetousness, leading to the decline of virtue. The gods became fearful as righteousness disappeared with the loss of the Vedas, and they sought the protection of Brahman. In response, the divine Lord Vishnu composed a treatise consisting of various subjects, including virtue, profit, pleasure, and emancipation.
The treatise was abridged by various sages into different forms, each containing essential knowledge for rulers and subjects alike. The science of chastisement, known as Dandaniti, was highlighted as a means to protect and govern the world. The lineage of kings was traced back to Prithu, who was recognized as the eighth from Vishnu and established a just and prosperous rule over the earth. Prithu's reign brought about equality, prosperity, and protection for all creatures, earning him the name Rajan and Kshatriya.
Prithu's contribution was instrumental in making the earth habitable and prosperous, with abundance and harmony prevailing everywhere. The divine beings and sages acknowledged his power and wisdom, leading to divine worship being offered to him. The goddess Shri, born from Vishnu's brow, became the consort of Dharma and produced Artha, further establishing the importance of righteousness, wealth, and prosperity. Kings were considered a portion of Vishnu on earth, chosen to lead and protect their subjects with intelligence and virtue.
The practice of morality and just behavior became prevalent during Prithu's reign, leading to a virtuous and harmonious society. The king's authority and righteousness inspired obedience and reverence among his subjects, ensuring peace and prosperity in his kingdom. The story illustrates the significance of kingship, divine guidance, and the balance between virtue and power in maintaining order and righteousness in society. It underscores the role of kings as custodians of dharma, protectors of their subjects, and embodiments of divine authority on earth.
Full English translation:
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Section LIX, 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 LIX:
What is the origin of the word "Rajan" (King) and how did sovereignty begin?
In the Krita age, men lived righteously, but as errors crept in, the need for a ruler arose. The divine Lord created a treatise on governance.
How did the science of chastisement, Dandaniti, come into existence?
The divine Lord composed a treatise with a hundred thousand chapters on Virtue, Profit, Pleasure, and Emancipation. It was later abridged by various beings into shorter versions.
Who was the eighth descendant from Vishnu and how did he establish kingship?
Prithu, the son of Vena, was a righteous king who made the earth level and prosperous. He received divine gifts and earned the title of "Rajan" for his virtues.
What divine entities were involved in the coronation of Prithu as king?
Vishnu, Indra, Rishis, and other deities gathered to crown Prithu, who was said to possess a portion of Vishnu’s divinity. The goddess Shri, Dharma, and Artha were also established in sovereignty.
What qualities and actions are expected from a king based on the story of Prithu?
A king should uphold righteousness, practice morality, protect his kingdom with the science of chastisement, and lead by example. Good deeds, intelligence, and just rule are essential for kingship.
How did Prithu's reign bring about obedience and prosperity in his kingdom?
Prithu's virtues, celestial support, might of his rule, and the practice of morality led to the obedience and prosperity of his subjects. His exemplary conduct inspired loyalty and admiration among his people.
What significant role did the goddess Shri play in the story of Prithu?
Shri, born from Vishnu's golden lotus, became the spouse of Dharma. By bestowing prosperity and wealth in the form of Artha, she contributed to the establishment of righteousness and sovereignty on earth.
What is the importance of a king according to the story of Prithu?
A king is seen as a divine entity on earth, with virtues that command respect and obedience. Kingship is rooted in righteousness, governance, and the welfare of the people.
Daily life: Origin and Importance of Kings in Hindu Epics:
The story of how kingship and governance came to be established on Earth, as recounted in ancient texts, offers profound lessons applicable to everyday life, particularly in the realms of leadership, responsibility, and social harmony. Initially, when humanity lived without any form of governance, righteous self-protection was the norm. However, over time, this system became unsustainable due to human failings like greed, lust, and anger, leading to a decline in moral values and social order. This chaos necessitated the creation of a societal structure, guided by the principles of Dharma (righteousness), Artha (prosperity), and Kama (pleasure), all of which are essential for a balanced life. The advent of rulers or kings, beings who, despite sharing human attributes, are bestowed with a divine responsibility to uphold justice and ensure the welfare of their subjects, emphasizes the significance of leadership rooted in virtue and integrity.
Translating this narrative into daily life, it becomes evident that leadership is not about supremacy or power but about fostering an environment where righteousness, fairness, and growth prevail. Regardless of one's role in society, embodying the virtues of a just ruler—such as impartiality, self-discipline, and a commitment to the common good—can have a transformative impact on one's surroundings. Moreover, the concept of Dandaniti (the science of chastisement) underlines the importance of accountability and order in maintaining societal balance. This principle can be applied by ensuring that actions and decisions are guided by a moral compass, with an awareness of their consequences on the community and the environment.
In essence, the story provides a blueprint for creating a harmonious society through conscious leadership and ethical governance. By embracing our roles as stewards of society, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we can contribute to a world where justice, happiness, and prosperity flourish. This narrative encourages us to reflect on our responsibilities towards one another and the planet, inspiring us to act with wisdom, compassion, and courage in our daily lives.