Shloka 20
Nīti for Calamity, Wealth, Friendship, Charity, and Restraint of Kāma
यस्मिन्देशे न संमानं न प्रीतिर्न च बान्धवाः / न च विद्यागमः कश्चित्तं देशं परिवर्जयेत्
yasmindeśe na saṃmānaṃ na prītirna ca bāndhavāḥ / na ca vidyāgamaḥ kaścittaṃ deśaṃ parivarjayet
在一个既无敬重、亦无亲爱、又无亲族，并且没有求学得智之机的地方，不应久居，当当远避。
Lord Viṣṇu (in instruction to Garuḍa)
Concept: Choose one’s residence by dharmic and educational conditions; avoid places lacking respect, affection, supportive relations, and avenues of learning.
Vedantic Theme: Satsaṅga and vidyā as supports for inner growth; environment (deśa-kāla) as a condition for dharma and self-cultivation.
Application: Relocate or change communities/workplaces that erode dignity and growth; seek satsaṅga, mentorship, and learning opportunities.
Primary Rasa: shanta
Secondary Rasa: karuna
Type: settlement/region
Related Themes: Garuda Purana 1.109.19 (need for supports and discernment); Garuda Purana 1.109.21-23 (right wealth and detachment)
FAQs
This verse teaches that a dharmic life is supported by social respect, goodwill, supportive relations, and access to learning—without these, one should relocate.
Indirectly, it emphasizes that right conduct and spiritual progress depend on conducive surroundings—honor, harmony, and learning help sustain dharma that shapes one’s karmic trajectory.
Prefer communities that offer dignity, healthy relationships, and education; if a place is persistently degrading, isolating, and anti-learning, it is wise to leave.