Srimad Bhagavatam — Shashtha Skandha, Shloka 7
Soma Pacifies the Pracetās; Dakṣa’s Haṁsa-guhya Prayers; Hari Grants Creative Power
न द्रुमेभ्यो महाभागा दीनेभ्यो द्रोग्धुमर्हथ । विवर्धयिषवो यूयं प्रजानां पतय: स्मृता: ॥ ७ ॥
na drumebhyo mahā-bhāgā dīnebhyo drogdhum arhatha vivardhayiṣavo yūyaṁ prajānāṁ patayaḥ smṛtāḥ
Hỡi những bậc đại phúc, các ngài không nên thiêu hủy những cây cối đáng thương này thành tro. Các ngài được nhớ đến như những người bảo hộ dân chúng, luôn mong cho muôn loài được thịnh vượng.
It is indicated herein that the government or king has the duty of protecting not only the human beings, but all other living entities, including animals, trees and plants. No living entity should be killed unnecessarily.
FAQs
This verse teaches that the helpless—here represented by trees—should not be harmed, and that those in positions of responsibility are meant to protect and nourish life.
Dakṣa instructed his sons (the Haryaśvas), who were assigned to expand population, that their role as progenitors and leaders is to foster and protect living beings, not to act violently toward the weak.
Practice responsible leadership and compassion: avoid needless harm to nature and vulnerable beings, and use authority to support growth, protection, and welfare.