Public Administration in Ancient India c7.19

c7.19

In many ancient countries the State, in the earlier stages of its development, was theocratic; but in India, although the social organisation contained within its bosom the Brahmanic theocracy and was to a large extent dominated by it, the State itself never became a theocracy in the proper sense of the term. This becomes evident when we consider a few broad facts. First, the ruler was never regarded as the head of religion. Secondly, the primary object of the State was not spiritual salvation, but social well-being. Thirdly, law, mingled as it was with religion and morality, was the chief source of the authority of the State. And lastly, the political status of individuals was independent of their religious beliefs and convictions.