Bhagavad Gita Chapter 18, Verse 43 (BG 18.43) — Meaning, Translation & Commentary

# BG 18.43 The kshatriya is naturally endowed with the quality of rajas. Here, Lord Sri Krishna does not consider a person born into a kshatriya family as a true kshatriya merely by birth. The qualities enumerated here are those that characterize an authentic kshatriya. In the Gita, the classification of varnas is based upon the inner nature and outer conduct of human beings. **Courage and valor** — A person possessed of strength and brilliance alone is capable of protecting and governing the people. **Steadfastness** — To hold one's aim with unwavering resolve is steadfastness. Even when countless obstacles arise on the path, one requires the fortitude not to deviate from one's course. This is what is meant by steadfastness. **Skill** — That is, competence and dexterity. In military training, this is called the command to be alert. Skill means the capacity to assess the present circumstances swiftly and accurately. It includes the ability to execute decisions immediately in accordance with that assessment. The competence of a true kshatriya becomes a subject of envy for others. **Not fleeing from battle** — A person endowed with the aforementioned qualities does not easily accept defeat in life's struggles. The word "battle" here should not be understood in its literal sense alone. Whatever difficult circumstances arise in life, to face them all with courage is what is meant here. To not flee from circumstances that stand opposed to a just cause is the dharma of the kshatriya. **Generosity** — No rule or ruler becomes beloved unless he gives with an open hand. Even in modern times, all democratic governments set aside a portion of their budgets without dispute or debate. A kshatriya who is miserly cannot succeed in his endeavors, for his success depends upon the number of his friends and supporters. A just kshatriya should compassionately and generously aid the helpless. **Divine confidence** — No person can govern without firm faith in his own capability. A leader of the people must possess such unwavering self-confidence that others of weaker heart are awakened to confidence by his conviction. Such divine confidence is an essential quality for a kshatriya. His powerful presence should radiate an electric energy throughout the surrounding atmosphere. A person cannot become a king merely by wearing a crown or royal garments. The royal crown, royal robes, and royal throne belong to one who possesses the wondrous art of choosing governance worthy of himself. Divine confidence is the foremost characteristic of the kshatriya. These eight qualities are called the duties of the kshatriya. This means that a kshatriya should cultivate and embody these qualities. Leaders who hold temporal authority cannot become guides on the spiritual path. Yet a true ruler should possess this subtle capacity: to incorporate spiritual values into his system of governance and give them practical expression in the various spheres of national life. In the next verse, the duties of the vaishya and shudra are described.