Political History of Ancient India, from the Accession of Parikshit to the Extinction of the Gupta Dynasty c9.s10.106

c9.s10.106

¹ Curiously enough, this list of the *ratnins* does not include the *Sthapati*, probably a local ruler, vassal chief, or governor who is, however, mentioned in *Śat. Br.* V. 4 4. 17, in connection with the concluding ceremonies of the *rājasūya*. The sacrificial sword (*sphya*) given by the priest to the king is passed on successively to the king's brother, the *sūta* or the *sthapati*, the *grāmaṇī* and finally to a tribesman (*sajāta*). The post of *sthapati*, was held by *Uparikas* or governors of *Bhuktis* (provinces) in the Gupta period (Fleet. CII, p. 120). Slightly different lists of ratnins are found in the *Taittirīya* texts. A group of eight *vīras* finds mention in the *Pañchaviṁśa Brāhmaṇa* (Camb. Hist. Ind. I. 131). In *Śat. Br.* XIII. 5. 4. 6. we have reference to the *Pariveshṭṛi*, the *Kshattṛi* and the *Sabhāsads* in connection with a performance of the horse-sacrifice.