Shloka 2.67.33

अयोध्यायां शोक-रात्रिः तथा अराजक-राष्ट्रस्य नीतिविचारः (The Night of Lamentation in Ayodhya and the Political Ethics of a Kingless Realm)

Devanagari script

यथा दृष्टि श्शरीरस्य नित्यमेव प्रवर्तते।तथा नरेन्द्रो राष्ट्रस्य प्रभवस्सत्यधर्मयोः।।।।

Transliteration

yathā dṛṣṭiḥ śarīrasya nityam eva pravartate |

tathā narendro rāṣṭrasya prabhavaḥ satyadharmayoḥ || 2.67.33 ||

Translation

As sight constantly serves the body, so the king is the sustaining source of truth and righteousness for the realm.

Context

The king is the source for protecting the truth and morality of a country like the eyewhich perpetually watches the welfare of the body.

Characters & Entities

• narendra (king)
• rāṣṭra (kingdom)
• satya (truth)
• dharma (righteousness)

FAQs

What is the core ethical principle (Dharma) in this verse?

Truth and dharma are not merely private virtues; they require vigilant public protection, and the king is portrayed as the instrument through which that protection continuously operates.

What is the narrative situation?

The assembly highlights why a ruler must be installed quickly: the king is essential for maintaining satya and dharma in the state.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Vigilance—steady, watchful care for the realm’s moral health.