Shloka 40
The Deliverance of King Nṛga and the Warning Against Taking Brāhmaṇa Property
न मे ब्रह्मधनं भूयाद् यद् गृध्वाल्पायुषो नरा: । पराजिताश्च्युता राज्याद् भवन्त्युद्वेजिनोऽहय: ॥ ४० ॥
na me brahma-dhanaṁ bhūyād yad gṛdhvālpāyuṣo narāḥ parājitāś cyutā rājyād bhavanty udvejino ’hayaḥ
I do not desire the wealth of brāhmaṇas. Those who lust for it become short-lived, are defeated, fall from their kingdoms, and become snakes that trouble others.
FAQs
This verse warns that greed for coveted wealth makes people anxious and can lead to defeat, loss of status, and constant fear—likened to the agitation of serpents.
In the Syamantaka episode, the jewel became a cause of suspicion, conflict, and danger; realizing its destructive impact, Satrājit expresses remorse and rejects such wealth that provokes greed and fear.
Treat wealth as a responsibility, not an obsession: avoid envy-driven acquisition, practice contentment, and prioritize integrity—otherwise success can turn into stress, insecurity, and conflict.