The Dynastic History of Northern India (Early Mediaeval Period) v2.c31.410.3

v2.c31.410.3

The most interesting effect of Jain teaching on the king was his withdrawal of the right of the state to confiscate the property of those who died childless (*mṛta-dhanāpaharaṇa-niṣedha*).⁴ Another interesting fact supplied by this author is a description of the king's daily time-table (*dina-caryā*). We are told that the king left his bed very early in the morning and recited the sacred Jain *mantra* *Pañca namaskāra* (five salutations), and meditated on the adorable gods and gurus. Thereupon he finished his bath, etc., worshipped the Jain images in the household temple, and, if time permitted, proceeded on an elephant to the *Kumāra-vihāra* in the company of his ministers. After performing eightfold worship there he used to go to Hemacandra, and, having worshipped him, listened to his religious teachings. He returned at midday to his palace, and after giving food and alms to mendicants and sent food-offerings to the Jain idols, took his meal. Then he attended an assembly of learned men, and discoursed with them on religious and philosophical topics. In the 4th *prahara* of the day (about 3 P.M.) he took his seat on the throne in the royal court and attended to the business of state, heard appeals from the people, and passed judgment on them. Sometimes purely as a part of royal duty he attended wrestling matches, elephant-fights, and other such pastimes. He took his evening meal 48 minutes before sunset, but ate only once on the 8th and 14th days of every fortnight.