Shloka 28
Characteristics of the King and His Servants
Rāja-dharma, Nīti, and Ethical Revenue
चापलाद्वारयेद्दृष्टिं मिथ्यावाक्यञ्च वारयेत् / मानवे श्रोत्रिये चैव भृत्यवर्गे सदैव हि
cāpalādvārayeddṛṣṭiṃ mithyāvākyañca vārayet / mānave śrotriye caiva bhṛtyavarge sadaiva hi
当制止轻佻之目光，亦当止息虚妄之言；尤其在与凡人往来、与通晓吠陀之士（śrotriya）相处，以及对仆从与依附者之中，恒常如此。
Lord Vishnu (in discourse to Garuda/Vinata-putra)
Concept: Restrain fickle looking and restrain false speech, especially in dealings with ordinary persons, learned śrotriyas, and one’s servants.
Vedantic Theme: Śama-dama as preparatory virtues; truthfulness and sense-control purify antaḥkaraṇa.
Application: Practice mindful attention (drishti-samyama) and truthful, measured speech; maintain respectful conduct across power differentials.
Primary Rasa: shanta
Related Themes: Garuda Purana: repeated emphasis on satya, indriya-nigraha, and proper conduct toward dependents
FAQs
This verse emphasizes that avoiding false speech is a core dharmic discipline, to be practiced consistently in everyday relationships—especially where power dynamics exist (e.g., with dependents).
By prescribing self-control (over gaze and speech), it points to the karmic basis of the soul’s journey: disciplined conduct reduces harmful karma that would otherwise shape post-death consequences described elsewhere in the Garuda Purana.
Practice mindful looking (avoid impulsive, restless attention) and commit to truthful, non-deceptive speech—particularly when speaking to those who rely on you or cannot easily challenge you.