Shloka 42
King Vena’s Tyranny, the Sages’ Counsel, and the Birth of Niṣāda
नाङ्गस्य वंशो राजर्षेरेष संस्थातुमर्हति । अमोघवीर्या हि नृपा वंशेऽस्मिन् केशवाश्रया: ॥ ४२ ॥
nāṅgasya vaṁśo rājarṣer eṣa saṁsthātum arhati amogha-vīryā hi nṛpā vaṁśe ’smin keśavāśrayāḥ
The sages resolved that the lineage of the saintly King Aṅga should not be cut off, for the kings of this dynasty possess unfailing vigor and, taking shelter of Keśava, are naturally inclined toward devotion to the Lord.
The purity of hereditary succession is called amogha-vīrya. The pious seminal succession in the twice-born families of the brāhmaṇas and kṣatriyas especially, as well as in the families of vaiśyas also, must be kept very pure by the observation of the purificatory processes beginning with garbhādhāna-saṁskāra, which is observed before conceiving a child. Unless this purificatory process is strictly observed, especially by the brāhmaṇas, the family descendants become impure, and gradually sinful activities become visible in the family. Mahārāja Aṅga was very pure because of the purification of semen in the family of Mahārāja Dhruva. However, his semen became contaminated in association with his wife, Sunīthā, who happened to be the daughter of death personified. Because of this polluted semen, King Vena was produced. This was a catastrophe in the family of Dhruva Mahārāja. All the saintly persons and sages considered this point, and they decided to take action in this matter, as described in the following verses.
FAQs
This verse teaches that rulers who take shelter of Keśava possess unfailing strength and become fit instruments for preserving dharma, so their line should not be allowed to end.
In the narrative surrounding King Vena, Śukadeva highlights that Aṅga’s lineage contains powerful, God-sheltered kings; therefore, ending the dynasty would oppose the higher purpose of maintaining righteous rule.
Take steady refuge in God through daily remembrance and ethical living; this strengthens character and makes one’s leadership—at home or work—more stable, courageous, and dharma-centered.