Live the Bhāgavatam · SB 4.16.20
Īśānukathā· The Lord and His devoteesIdeal Rulers Represent the Lord’s Protection
“This King, being uniquely powerful and heroic, will have no competitor. He will travel around the globe on his victorious chariot, holding his invincible bow in his hand and appearing exactly like the sun, which rotates in its own orbit from the south.”
What the purport teaches
- Pṛthu would travel around the globe with his invincible bow, without a competitor. His reign would extend over the whole planet, including the Himālaya Mountains and the borders of all oceans and seas.
- The purport explains the sun comparison by describing the sun as moving in its orbit according to the order of the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
- A qualified, ideal king is honored as God in human form because he represents Nārāyaṇa in protecting the citizens. Such honor requires genuine competence in ruling and protecting.
Try this today
Take one practical step today to protect the well-being of someone for whom you are responsible.
Ask yourself
When I have responsibility for others, do I place their protection and welfare first?
Carry the question through the day, then answer it in your own words before sleep.
The study points, practice and question are short summaries drawn from Śrīla Prabhupāda's translation and purport. Read the full purport to go deeper.