Srimad Bhagavatam — Ekadasha Skandha, Shloka 45
Varṇāśrama-dharma as a Path to Bhakti
Yuga-dharma Origins, Universal Virtues, Brahmacarya and Gṛhastha Duties
सर्वा: समुद्धरेद् राजा पितेव व्यसनात् प्रजा: । आत्मानमात्मना धीरो यथा गजपतिर्गजान् ॥ ४५ ॥
sarvāḥ samuddhared rājā piteva vyasanāt prajāḥ ātmānam ātmanā dhīro yathā gaja-patir gajān
राजा पितेव प्रजाः व्यसनात् सर्वाः समुद्धरेत्; धीरः आत्मानमपि आत्मना रक्षेत—यथा गजपतिः गजान् स्वं च।
Lord Kṛṣṇa, having concluded His discussion of brahminical duties, now describes the character and activities of a king. Protecting all of the citizens from difficulty is an essential duty for the king.
FAQs
This verse teaches that a king must rescue and protect all citizens from calamities, caring for them like a father cares for his children.
In the Uddhava-gītā section, Kṛṣṇa explains varṇāśrama-dharma and right conduct; here He outlines rāja-dharma—protection of subjects and personal self-mastery as the basis of righteous rule.
Leaders should prioritize the welfare of those under their care and practice self-governance—discipline, restraint, and steadiness—before attempting to guide others.