Shloka 1.7.8

अमात्य-गुणवर्णनम् (The Virtues of Daśaratha’s Ministers and the Order of Governance)

Devanagari script

कुशला व्यवहारेषु सौहृदेषु परीक्षिता: ।प्राप्तकालं तु ते दण्डं धारयेयुस्सुतेष्वपि ।।।।

Transliteration

kuśalā vyavahāreṣu sauhṛdeṣu parīkṣitāḥ | prāpta-kālaṃ tu te daṇḍaṃ dhārayeyuḥ suteṣv api ||

Translation

They were skilled in practical dealings and proven in friendship; and when the time was proper, they would administer punishment—even in matters concerning their own sons.

Context

They knew how to deal (with people). They were true to their friends. They used to impose appropriate punishment even on their own sons.

FAQs

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

Impartial justice (danda-nīti) is part of dharma: discipline must be applied appropriately, without favoritism—even toward one’s own family.

What is the narrative situation?

A description of ideal ministers: competent in administration, trustworthy in friendship, and fair in enforcing law.

Which character virtue is emphasized?

Fair-mindedness and duty over personal attachment.