Hindu Administrative Institutions c9.s2.34

c9.s2.34

Of the six duties mentioned, three duties—partaking in other’s sacrifices, teaching students, receiving good gifts are the means of a *śrotriya's* livelihood.¹ These three, in the opinion of Naccinārkkiniyar, belong of right to the Brahmans only.² The other three functions are intended for his own elevation. These are reading, performing sacrifices, and bestowing gifts. Those who fulfil these duties were known as *śrotriyas* and deserved the best consideration of the authorities of the state.³ From the nature of the duties expected of them it was impossible for them to earn their livelihood by taking to other callings. After all they discharged these duties for the benefit of the society at large. They spread the light of knowledge without expecting any reward in return whatever be the number of students who approached them. Again by sacrifices they assured the prosperity of the land and people. According to the then prevalent notions, sacrifices were deemed important as, by them alone the earth could enjoy the benefit of good and timely showers, which is the cause of abundance of crops, on which again people depend for their existence.⁴ Perhaps Naccinārkkiniyar entertains the same opinion when he interprets. ‘வேள்வி’ or (sacrifice), as ‘வேளாண்மைபற்றி வேள்வியாயிற்று.’