Significance of Protection of subjects
Protection of subjects is a fundamental duty of a king that entails safeguarding the well-being and rights of his people across various texts, including the Arthashastra, Vaishnavism, and Purana. It emphasizes the monarch's responsibility to ensure the safety and welfare of individuals within their realm. This duty is reiterated as a primary obligation of rulers, highlighting the role of divine figures in protecting their subjects and the importance of enforcing laws to maintain governance. Overall, the responsibility of protecting subjects is a core principle of effective leadership.
In Dutch: Bescherming van onderwerpen; In Finnish: Kohteiden suojelu
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Protection of subjects'
In Buddhism, Protection of subjects emphasizes a king's duty to ensure the welfare of all constituents, regardless of wealth, fostering loyalty and respect through compassionate governance.
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The obligation of a king to safeguard the well-being of his constituents, both rich and poor, to earn their loyalty and respect.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Protection of subjects'
In Hinduism, the Protection of subjects signifies the fundamental duty of Kshatriyas and kings to safeguard the well-being and rights of their people, highlighting the essential responsibility to nurture and govern effectively for societal welfare.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) One of the primary duties of a king, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the well-being of the people under his rule.[2] (2) Acknowledges the monarch's duty and capacity to safeguard and govern his people effectively.[3] (3) The king's obligation to care for and guard the well-being of his people.[4] (4) The primary responsibility of a Kshatriya, which includes ensuring the safety and welfare of the people under their rule.[5] (5) The duty of rulers to safeguard their people through enforcement of laws and accountability, reflecting the idea of governance.[6]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) The obligation of a king to safeguard the well-being and rights of his people.[7] (2) The duty upheld by King Ripunjaya, ensuring the well-being and flourishing of his people.[8] (3) The act performed by Yugadideva, emphasizing his role in safeguarding the well-being of his people.[9]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) The king's duty to safeguard and nurture his people, which is integral to achieving final beatitude.[10] (2) The responsibility emphasized by Brahma as essential for kingship.[11]
From: Padma Purana
(1) The duty of the king’s son to safeguard the well-being of the people living in the king’s realm.[12] (2) The duty of a king to safeguard and nurture the well-being of his people, as exemplified by Prithu.[13]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) One of the chief duties of a king, emphasizing the responsibility to safeguard the well-being of the people in his realm.[14] (2) The primary duty of the king as emphasized in the Matsyapurana, focusing on the welfare of the people.[15]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) A fundamental duty of Kshatriyas as described in the Dharmshastra, emphasizing their role in safeguarding the interests of the people.[16]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) The duty of a leader or divine figure, such as Krishna, to safeguard their people from harm and distress.[17]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Marutta expresses his duty to ensure the protection of his subjects, highlighting the responsibilities of a king.[18]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Highlights the role of the divine in safeguarding those who uphold virtue within the universe.[19]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The virtue of ensuring the safety and well-being of the people, considered noble and pursued by saintly kings.[20]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A quality attributed to Bali, emphasizing his care and safeguarding of those under his rule.[21]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) One of the fundamental duties of a king, focusing on safeguarding the well-being and welfare of his populace.[22]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) The responsibility to safeguard the well-being of the citizens.[23]
From: Yajnavalkya-smriti (Vyavaharadhyaya)—Critical study
(1) The duty of the king to ensure the safety and welfare of his people, making it a paramount responsibility.[24]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) The duty of rulers to safeguard their people from harm, particularly during challenging times marked by strife.[25]