Shloka 18
राजधर्मस्य नवनीतम्—रक्षा, दण्ड, चार, उत्थान
Rājadharma’s ‘Essence’: Protection, Punishment, Intelligence, and Royal Diligence
एकाड्लरेनापि सम्भूत: शत्रुर्दुर्गमुपाश्रित: । सर्व तापयते देशमपि राज्ञ: समृद्धिन:
ekāḍhvareṇāpi sambhūtaḥ śatrur durgam upāśritaḥ | sarvaṃ tāpayate deśam api rājñaḥ samṛddhinaḥ ||
Bhīṣma said: Even a small enemy force, once it has arisen and taken shelter in a fortress, can scorch an entire realm—even that of a prosperous king. The ethical warning is that negligence in security and governance allows minor threats to become widespread suffering for the people and the state.
भीष्म उवाच
Educational Q&A
A ruler must not underestimate small threats: when an enemy gains a secure base (a fortress), even a minor force can inflict widespread harm. Vigilance, timely action, and protection of the realm are essential duties of kingship.
In the Śānti Parva’s instruction on rājadharma, Bhīṣma warns about political-military realities: an enemy entrenched in a stronghold can harass and distress the entire country, even under a wealthy and powerful king.