What does ancient texts say about King?

Ancient Indian texts, including the Vedas, the Upanishads, the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Arthashastra, provide numerous references to the role of “rajas” (kings). The concept of kingship in ancient India was complex and encompassed a range of responsibilities, from governance and military leadership to upholding dharma (righteousness) and ensuring the welfare of the subjects. Here are 10 shlokas (verses) that highlight the role of rajas as per ancient Indian texts:

1. Rigveda 10.173.6:
   This shloka from the Rigveda mentions a raja (king) who is wise and virtuous. It describes the king’s role in maintaining order and prosperity, emphasizing the importance of governance and the upholding of righteousness.
2. Atharvaveda 3.5.1:
   This verse discusses the relationship between a raja and his subjects. It suggests that a king should be a protector of his people, promoting peace and harmony within his kingdom. It underscores the king’s role as a custodian of justice and security.
3. Yajurveda 19.11:
   In this shloka, the raja is described as a leader who follows dharma, ensuring that laws and justice are upheld. This verse illustrates the king’s duty to maintain order and act with fairness in his governance.
4. Arthashastra 1.19:
   The Arthashastra, an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, discusses the role of the raja in governing his kingdom. This shloka underscores the importance of a king in maintaining a strong administration, military, and legal system. It also highlights the need for wisdom and strategic thinking in a raja’s leadership.
5. Mahabharata, Shanti Parva, Chapter 58, Verse 7:
   This shloka from the Mahabharata reflects on the king’s role as a protector of his subjects. It emphasizes that a raja must protect the weak, uphold justice, and ensure that his people are treated fairly.
6. Ramayana, Ayodhya Kanda, Chapter 100, Verse 14:
   In this shloka, the raja is described as a ruler who cares for his people and ensures their well-being. It underscores the king’s responsibility to listen to his subjects’ grievances and address their needs.
7. Rigveda 2.23.1:
   This shloka describes a raja’s religious role, illustrating the king’s duty to conduct sacrifices and religious ceremonies. It reflects the connection between the king and the divine, showing that a raja has both political and spiritual responsibilities.
8. Mahabharata, Sabha Parva, Chapter 13, Verse 13:
   This verse describes the raja as a source of stability and order. It emphasizes the king’s duty to maintain harmony within his kingdom and uphold the principles of dharma.
9. Rigveda 10.34.13:
   This shloka is part of the “Gambler’s Lament” and refers to a raja’s struggle with fate. It suggests that even kings face challenges and must navigate the uncertainties of life. This shloka reflects the human side of kingship, illustrating that rajas are not immune to difficulties.
10. Arthashastra 6.2:
    This shloka from the Arthashastra describes the role of a raja in maintaining a strong economy and ensuring prosperity within his kingdom. It highlights the king’s responsibility to manage resources wisely and create a stable environment for his subjects.

These shlokas collectively illustrate the multifaceted role of rajas in ancient Indian texts, depicting them as leaders, protectors, administrators, and religious figures. The underlying themes of dharma, justice, and the welfare of the people are consistent across these texts, emphasizing the critical role that rajas played in ancient Indian society.