Significance of Kshatriya duty
Kshatriya duty encompasses the responsibilities of the warrior class, emphasizing their moral obligation to engage in battle, protect their kingdom, and uphold righteousness. As described in various texts, including the Arthashastra and Gita, Kshatriyas are expected to demonstrate bravery, honor, and loyalty, fulfilling their role in society. This duty obligates them to fight for justice and the welfare of their subjects, highlighting their ethical and moral responsibilities integral to their caste identity within Hindu society.
In Dutch: Kshatriya-plicht; In Finnish: Kshatriyan velvollisuus
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Kshatriya duty'
Kshatriya duty in Hinduism encompasses the noble responsibilities of warriors, emphasizing valor, protection of people, and upholding justice, as highlighted through Arjuna's moral struggles in the Bhagavad Gita and the broader ethical obligations of the warrior class.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The responsibility or obligation of a warrior class member, exemplified by Jarasandha preparing for battle.[1] (2) The obligations and ethical expectations of a warrior class, especially in relation to bravery and conduct in battle.[2] (3) The responsibilities and obligations expected of warriors in the context of battle and honor.[3] (4) The noble responsibilities expected of warriors belonging to the Kshatriya class, including valor and honor in battle.[4] (5) The obligations of warriors as dictated by their caste, including fighting to protect their kingdom and subjects.[5]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The hereditary responsibility of a warrior king to protect others from harm.[6] (2) The responsibilities associated with a warrior class, which the king abandoned, leading to his negative karmic consequences.[7]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) The responsibilities of a warrior class in Hindu society, which Arjuna grapples with in the context of conflict in the Gita.[8]
From: Bhagavadgita
(1) The righteous obligations of a warrior, implying that engaging in battle is a moral imperative.[9]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The responsibilities and obligations associated with a Kshatriya, particularly the focus on conquest and protection in times of danger.[10] (2) The obligation of the Kshatriya class in society to engage in battle and uphold the code of warriors.[11] (3) Responsibilities and rules that do not include the same duties as those assigned to the Brahmana, indicating a difference in expectations for this caste.[12] (4) The responsibilities assigned to a warrior class in society, which include governing and defending the realm.[13]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) The Kshatriya duty refers to the responsibilities of the warrior caste, particularly the obligation to protect the people and uphold justice.[14]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) The natural obligation of a warrior or king class to engage in battle, regardless of the outcome.[15] (2) The obligations of Kshatriyas, which include military service, sacrifices, and maintaining life protection.[16]
From: Amarakoshodghatana of Kshirasvamin (study)
(1) The responsibilities of kshatriyas, particularly focusing on protection and governance within society.[17]
From: Gitartha Samgraha (critical Study)
(1) The responsibilities and duties of a warrior class which Arjuna is encouraged to uphold instead of relinquishing his position in the battle.[18]
The concept of Kshatriya duty in local and regional sources
Kshatriya duty encompasses the obligations of warriors to fight valiantly as emphasized in the Gita, adhering to a code of conduct that prioritizes noble battles, exemplified by Arjuna's commitment to fight for justice as guided by Krishna.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The code of conduct expected from a warrior class individual, emphasizing the importance of battle.[19] (2) The obligations and responsibilities of warriors, as defined in the Gita, where fighting valiantly is seen as a superior duty.[20] (3) The duty associated with the warrior caste in Hindu society, exemplified by Arjuna's need to fight for a just cause as advised by Krishna.[21]