King Vena’s Tyranny, the Sages’ Counsel, and the Birth of Niṣāda
काककृष्णोऽतिह्रस्वाङ्गो ह्रस्वबाहुर्महाहनु: । ह्रस्वपान्निम्ननासाग्रो रक्ताक्षस्ताम्रमूर्धज: ॥ ४४ ॥
kāka-kṛṣṇo ’tihrasvāṅgo hrasva-bāhur mahā-hanuḥ hrasva-pān nimna-nāsāgro raktākṣas tāmra-mūrdhajaḥ
从维那王大腿出生的那人名为“巴胡迦”。他肤色黑如乌鸦,四肢极短,臂腿短小而下颌宽大;鼻梁低平,眼带红色,头发呈铜色。
This verse describes Vena’s ominous physical traits—crow-black complexion, stunted limbs, red eyes, and coppery hair—presented as external signs accompanying an irreligious disposition.
In the narrative of King Vena, the detailed description underscores how destructive tendencies in a ruler can be recognizable and consequential, setting the stage for the sages’ response and the restoration of dharma.
The Bhagavatam warns that leadership without dharma becomes harmful; therefore, cultivate self-discipline, humility, and accountability so power does not turn into oppression.