What might happen if the king considered himself to have divine powers? How would he rule over the people?
If a king considered himself to have divine powers, he would likely rule with absolute authority, believing his decisions were beyond question since they came from a divine source.
He might ignore the welfare of his people, dismiss wise advisors, and make decisions based solely on his own desires.
Such a ruler would not feel bound by dharma or moral obligations to his subjects.
This could lead to oppression, injustice, and suffering for the people, as the king would not accept any limits on his power or be accountable to anyone.
History shows such rulers often created extremely difficult circumstances for their people.
Explanation
The chapter discusses on pages 14-15 how some kings 'claimed to have received divine power from God' and had 'all the power.' However, in many parts of India, 'the power of the raja was neither absolute nor beyond question' and kings were expected to follow 'rājadharma'—ruling according to dharma and ensuring welfare of all people. The chapter also mentions the Shānti Parva teaching that 'the raja must understand that his authority is temporary and bound by dharma.'
Solution Steps
A king claiming divine powers would rule with absolute authority, believing his decisions are beyond question
Such a ruler would ignore people's welfare, dismiss wise advisors, and decide based on personal desires
The king would not feel bound by dharma or moral obligations to his subjects
This leads to oppression, injustice, and suffering as the king accepts no limits on power
History shows such rulers created extremely difficult circumstances for their people