What is the highest duty of a Kshatriya as described in the Laws of Manu?

The highest duty of a Kshatriya, as outlined in the Laws of Manu, is to protect his subjects. This duty emphasizes the role of the Kshatriya class in society, which is primarily responsible for governance, warfare, and the defense of the community. The protection of subjects encompasses not only physical defense in times of conflict but also ensuring the overall well-being and security of the populace. This responsibility highlights the ethical obligation of leaders to act in the best interests of those they govern, establishing a framework of loyalty and duty that is crucial in the hierarchical structure of Vedic society.

In contrast, while maintaining spiritual knowledge, accumulating wealth, and ruling with justice are important considerations for a Kshatriya, they are secondary to the primary duty of protection. Protecting subjects embodies the ideal of a leader's role, reinforcing the Kshatriya's position as a guardian and enforcer of dharma (moral order) within the social order.