1.7: The Wise Ministers and the Glorious Administration

Chapter 1.7: The Wise Ministers and the Glorious Administration

In the city of Ayodhya, a beacon of wisdom and justice, the descendants of Ikshuvaku were blessed with ministers of great virtue. As I recall the illustrious reign of my father, King Dasaratha, my heart swells with pride and gratitude for the wise counselors who stood by his side.

These ministers, chosen not for their birth or lineage, but for their competence and integrity, were the pillars of Ayodhya's prosperity. Each possessed a rare ability to discern the true intentions of individuals, their keen insight guiding them in the service of the kingdom. My father, the wise and discerning king, had gathered around him eight ministers, untainted by personal strife, dedicated solely to the welfare of the realm.

Among these esteemed counselors were Drishti, whose vision extended beyond the ordinary, Jayantha, victorious in all endeavors, and Vijaya, whose name echoed with triumph. Sidhatha, the accomplished achiever, and Artha Sadaka, the bringer of prosperity, lent their expertise to the royal court. Asoka, the one who pacified, Manthra Pala, the guardian of counsel, and Sumanthra, the wise counselor, completed the council of ministers, their collective wisdom a formidable force in shaping the destiny of Ayodhya.

In addition to these distinguished ministers, my father held in his court two revered sages as family priests—Vasishta and Vamadeva. These spiritual luminaries were well-versed in all branches of wisdom, their conduct guided by a deep sense of righteousness. Shameful acts found no place in their hearts, and their minds were a reservoir of vast knowledge. With their senses firmly restrained, they exuded a radiance that commanded respect.

Their words carried the weight of truth, untinged by anger or personal gain. These sagely counselors possessed an uncanny ability to discern the intentions of others, even amidst their adversaries. Their expertise extended beyond the realm of worldly affairs, their influence reaching far and wide. Adorned with the splendor of forgiveness, they spoke with a serene smile, their every utterance infused with profound meaning.

The ministers of Ayodhya, chosen for their competence and integrity, discharged their duties with utmost diligence. They excelled in revenue collection, assembling formidable armies, and delivering justice. Their discerning minds carefully weighed the strength and weakness of each case, ensuring that punishments were meted out only to the guilty.

These stalwart ministers maintained harmony between the Kshatriyas and the Brahmins, nurturing a society that thrived on mutual respect. Their treasury overflowed with abundance, the result of their astute financial management. Not a single liar resided within the city or the kingdom, for truth prevailed in every corner of Ayodhya.

Ayodhya, the city of serenity, harbored no wicked intentions. No man harbored covetous desires for another's wife, and peace reigned throughout the land. The ministers, distinguished by their virtuous conduct, adorned themselves with resplendent attire befitting their noble character. They sought guidance from esteemed elders, their wisdom shaped by the counsel of their parents and the experienced voices of the elderly. Renowned for their wisdom and prowess, they navigated the affairs of the state with unrivaled intellect, their reputation extending beyond the boundaries of their own kingdom.

These ministers, affluent in both wealth and wisdom, possessed an intimate understanding of the complexities of peace and war. They possessed the art of secrecy, unraveling the nuances of each situation before arriving at decisive conclusions. Experts in jurisprudence, they spoke with eloquence, their voices soothing to the ears of all who sought their counsel.

Dasaratha, the virtuous king, shielded his people with unwavering dedication. He delighted in the protection and well-being of the righteous, while casting aside those who strayed from the path of righteousness. His fame echoed across the three worlds, as he ruled with unparalleled might and valor. Adored by his subjects, he forged alliances and vanquished his enemies, his supremacy unmatched. His reign, akin to Indra's dominion over the heavens, brought prosperity and harmony to the kingdom of Ayodhya.

Encircled by these wise ministers, who showered their affectionate counsel upon him, my father shone like the rising sun, illuminating the path to prosperity. His radiance mirrored the luminous rays that heralded the dawn, and his reign was a testament to the power of righteous governance.