A Buddhist story of a test to a king and the “ten duties of the king” according to “What the Buddha taught” by Walpola Rahuda.

The following text is taken from the book: What the Buddha Taught by Walpola Rahula:

READ CAREFULLY, the ten duties of the king (of a leader or governor)

The first of the “ten duties of the king” literally means practicing generosity and charity (dana). The ruler must feel neither greed nor attachment for wealth and property, but he must donate them for the welfare of the people.

Second: high moral character (sila) He must never destroy lives, cheat, steal, exploit others, commit adultery, tell lies, or drink intoxicating drinks. That is to say, at least he must observe the five precepts of the laity.

Third: sacrifice everything for the good of the people (áricagga). He has to be willing to sacrifice all personal comfort, as well as his name and fame, and even life for the benefit of the people.

Fourth: honesty and integrity (ajjava). In performing his duties, he must be free from fear and from all favor; he must be sincere in his intentions and not mislead the public.

Fifth: kindness and sweetness (maddava). He should be nice to everyone in dealing with him.

Sixth: austere customs (cover). He must lead a simple life, not let himself be subjugated by luxury and practice self-control.

Seventh: absence of hatred, ill will and aversion (acodha). He must not hold a grudge against anyone.

Eighth: non-violence (avihimsa); this not only means that he must not harm anyone, but also that it is his obligation to strive to promote peace by safeguarding war and everything that involves violence or destruction of lives.

Ninth: patience, indulgence, tolerance and understanding (khanti). He must be able to bear, without getting angry, all kinds of hardships, difficulties and insults.

Tenth: non-opposition and non-obstruction (avirodha). In other words, he must not oppose the will of the people, nor obstruct any measure aimed at their welfare. In other words, he must rule in harmony with his people.

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