Srimad Bhagavatam — Dashama Skandha, Shloka 19
Jarāsandha’s Siege of Mathurā, Kṛṣṇa-Balarāma’s Victory, and the Founding of Dvārakā amid Kālayavana’s Threat
श्रीभगवानुवाच न वै शूरा विकत्थन्ते दर्शयन्त्येव पौरुषम् । न गृह्णीमो वचो राजन्नातुरस्य मुमूर्षत: ॥ १९ ॥
śrī-bhagavān uvāca na vai śūrā vikatthante darśayanty eva pauruṣam na gṛhṇīmo vaco rājann āturasya mumūrṣataḥ
The Supreme Lord said: Real heroes do not simply boast but rather show their prowess in action. We cannot take seriously the words of one who is full of anxiety and who wants to die.
FAQs
This verse says that genuine heroes do not brag; they prove their courage through action and restraint.
Krishna dismisses Jarāsandha’s heated, threatening speech as the talk of someone distressed and nearing defeat, emphasizing that real valor is shown by deeds, not loud claims.
Avoid self-promotion and angry posturing; let competence, integrity, and calm action demonstrate your strength—especially under pressure.