Srimad Bhagavatam — Chaturtha Skandha, Shloka 20
Pṛthu Mahārāja’s Homecoming, Sacrificial Assembly, and Instruction on Devotional Kingship
चारु चित्रपदं श्लक्ष्णं मृष्टं गूढमविक्लवम् । सर्वेषामुपकारार्थं तदा अनुवदन्निव ॥ २० ॥
cāru citra-padaṁ ślakṣṇaṁ mṛṣṭaṁ gūḍham aviklavam sarveṣām upakārārthaṁ tadā anuvadann iva
その言葉は麗しく、比喩に富み、明晰で耳に甘かった。しかも一語一語が重みと確かさを備えていた。彼は衆生の益のために語り、まるで絶対真理への自らの体得を述べているかのようであった。
Mahārāja Pṛthu was beautiful in his external bodily features, and his speech was also very glorious in all respects. His words, which were nicely composed in highly metaphorical ornamental language, were pleasing to hear and were not only mellow but also very clearly understandable and without doubt or ambiguity.
FAQs
The verse praises speech that is charming, well-expressed, gentle, refined, profound, and steady—delivered for the welfare of all.
Because he is presented as an ideal ruler whose words are not self-serving but meant to uplift and benefit all citizens through dharmic instruction.
By speaking truthfully and calmly, choosing refined and helpful words, and aiming for others’ welfare rather than argument or personal victory.