Significance of Duties of kings
Duties of kings encompass various responsibilities and ethical obligations that monarchs must uphold for effective governance and justice. According to sources like the Purana, Kavya, and Dharmashastra, these duties include protecting subjects, establishing righteousness, and adhering to scriptural mandates. Kings are expected to engage in actions that benefit their kingdom, maintain order, and ensure moral integrity. The discussions around these duties highlight the importance of a king's decisions on their subjects and the critical nature of self-discipline in their rule.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Duties of kings'
The Duties of kings in Hinduism encompass ethical obligations, scriptural adherence, and responsibilities to maintain order and justice. They must protect subjects, establish righteousness, and train in self-discipline, as highlighted in texts like the Agni Purana and Bhishma's discourse.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The various essential responsibilities that a king must fulfill to ensure proper governance.[1] (2) Refers to the responsibilities and moral obligations that rulers must adhere to, as understood by Yudhishthira.[2] (3) The responsibilities and obligations that kings must adhere to according to scriptural ordinances.[3] (4) Specific responsibilities attributed to monarchs, such as protecting their subjects, establishing righteousness, and engaging in battle for religious merit.[4] (5) Refers to the responsibilities and ethical guidelines that kings are expected to follow.[5]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Chapters in the Agni Purana dedicated to the responsibilities and governance of rulers.[6] (2) Responsibilities and moral obligations that monarchs must fulfill, mentioned in relation to Suta and Magadha.[7]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) Responsibilities outlined in the Matsyapurana regarding the conduct and moral obligations of a king to his subjects and state.[8]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Responsibilities specific to kings, where subjugating the senses is reiterated as a critical element of their training and effective rule.[9] (2) Responsibilities and actions that a king is obliged to perform in order to protect and serve his people.[10] (3) The responsibilities and actions expected of a King, highlighting the impact of their decisions on their subjects.[11]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) The responsibilities and roles assigned to monarchs within the political framework.[12]
From: Nitiprakasika (Critical Analysis)
(1) One of the primary topics covered in Nitiprakashika, along with the art of war.[13]