Chapter 18: Moksha-sannyasa-yoga:: Verse 43
शौर्यं तेजो धृतिर्दाक्ष्यं युद्धे चाप्यपलायनम् ।
दानमीश्वरभावश्च क्षात्रं कर्म स्वभावजम् ॥
śauryaṃ tejo dhṛtirdākṣyaṃ yuddhe cāpy-apalāyanam
dānam-īśvara-bhāvaśca kṣātraṃ karma svabhāvajam – 18.43
Valour, splendour, determination, skill, not running away from the battlefield, charity and lordship – these constitute the natural activities of a kshatriya.
Chapter 18: Moksha-sannyasa-yoga: - Verse 43
Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha
Brāhmana’s contribution to the society is in striving with his mind, intelligence and heart. His is a life of recession and absorption, generating balance, brilliance and harmony in the society. His sedentary life, however, has its relevance only when a substantial number of people given to vibrant, ethical action are there, watchful to mend matters. Kshatriyas constitute this vibrant group.
Krishna lists seven qualities and skills shaping this valiant fighter community. They have a blend of valour, resolve, skill and brilliance with lordship, benevolence and readiness to subdue the mischievous and the violators. Unlike non-humans, humans need stern administration to enforce law and order. Otherwise, the individual freedom and potentials will turn destructive. Police and military consist of those with the kshātra spirit, resolve and readiness to enforce corrective measures any time when needed, based on the tenets of law and administration.
