Srimad Bhagavatam — Chaturtha Skandha, Shloka 42
Dhruva-vaṁśa Continuation: Utkala’s Renunciation, Aṅga’s Sacrifice, and the Birth of Vena
Prelude to Pṛthu
तं विचक्ष्य खलं पुत्रं शासनैर्विविधैर्नृप: । यदा न शासितुं कल्पो भृशमासीत्सुदुर्मना: ॥ ४२ ॥
taṁ vicakṣya khalaṁ putraṁ śāsanair vividhair nṛpaḥ yadā na śāsituṁ kalpo bhṛśam āsīt sudurmanāḥ
息子ヴェーナの残酷で無慈悲な振る舞いを見て、アンガ王は彼を更生させるために様々な方法で罰したが、彼を温厚な道に引き戻すことはできなかった。こうして王は深く悲しんだ。
FAQs
This verse shows that even with various forms of discipline, a deeply wicked nature may remain ungovernable, causing grief to righteous parents; it highlights the seriousness of cultivating virtue early and seeking dharmic guidance.
Aṅga observed Vena’s wicked disposition and attempted many corrective measures, but when Vena could not be controlled, the king became deeply unhappy, fearing the consequences of such an heir.
Use varied, appropriate correction and mentorship, but also recognize limits—seek wise counsel, strengthen values-based education, and prioritize character development over mere authority or punishment.