Hindu Administrative Institutions c6.s2.1

c6.s2.1

Reference has already been made to the *mātsya nyāya* theory. The guiding principle of this theory is ‘might is right’. Literally rendered the term *mātsya nyāya* means the ‘logic of the fish’, in other words, the law of the greater fish devouring the smaller ones. This supplies the explanation of the Hindu concept of the state of nature. According to orthodox tradition as expounded in the *Arthaśāstra* and the *Itihāsas* the original state of nature was one of ideal bliss when people naturally led a moral life perhaps born of regard for humanity in general. They were not bound down by laws or conventions and systems. This state of innocence, however, in course of time gave place to a period of insecurity and even savagery when chaos and anarchy reigned supreme. Might was the order of the day. People had no regard for human and divine order. The very social existence (*sthiti*) was made impossible. It was felt that over the whole world were spread the wings of destruction, and the day seemed not far off when it would reach its end. On this the Lord, the Creator, out of his abundant love to mankind, set up spiritual and moral standards which were named *daṇḍa nīti*. Any violation of such standards was severely dealt with by the authority in power (*imperium*), and this authority was invariably the king. Out of fear of *daṇḍa* people began to lead a moral and even a spiritually good life. As Kauṭalya acutely remarks, protected by *daṇḍa* the state prospers.¹