The Antiquities of Orissa v2.c16.s3.t2.16

v2.c16.s3.t2.16

"For a very long period of time there have been no ministers of religion properly so called. By myself, then, in this tenth year of mine anointment, are ministers of religion appointed; who intermingling among all unbelievers (may overwhelm them) with the inundation of religion, and with the abundance of the sacred doctrines. Through Kām (*bocha, Gan*), *dhāra*, *narāstika*, Petenika, and elsewhere finding their way into the uttermost limits of the barbarian countries, for the benefit and pleasure of (all classes) ....... and for restraining [ 50 ] the passions of the faithful, and for the regeneration of those bound in the fetters (of sin?).... are they appointed. Intermingling equally among the dreaded, and among the respected—both in *Pātaliputa* and in foreign places, teaching better things shall they everywhere penetrate; so that they even who (oppose the faith shall at length become) ministers of it.”