Advisors

The Srimad-Bhagavatam commentator, Sridhara Swami, mentions that every king has seven protectors, of which the spiritual master and informed ministers are two (SB 6.14.17). When these seven are properly maintained, a king flourishes in his service. The Pandavas, for example, often benefitted from the counsel of Narada Muni. Brahminical advisors and spiritual guides would help the kings make effective, practical decisions, which factored in scriptural principles and spiritual wisdom. Their advice would help to resolve the various political and societal dilemmas they were facing. Though the rajarsis were in powerful positions, they never developed a sense of pride which would block them from receiving advice. The Ramayana also narrates how Lord Rama would often be seen sitting with the sages of the forest, receiving spiritual counsel. We see how King Rahugana, when he detected the spiritual advancement of his palanquin carrier, Jada Bharata, was eager to hear spiritual wisdom from him.