Hindu Administrative Institutions c8.s4.5

c8.s4.5

*The Sabha.*—Having defined exactly what the meanings of these different terms are it would be interesting to examine the composition, constitution and functions of these bodies. Let us first examine the conception of the *Sabha* in Vedic times. Professors Macdonell and Keith take the view that the term refers to both the assembly and the hall in which the assembly met.² They further opine that the hall was also used for purposes of gambling from the technical term *sabhāsthānu*. The hall was something like our Town Halls where all the public affairs of the state and society were discussed and resolved upon. It was not exclusively in use for state purposes.¹