Hindu Polity: A Constitutional History of India in Hindu Times c43.88

c43.88

The Mānava Code does not specifically mention the *Purohita*. But he is very likely included in the 'seven or eight' Ministers of Manu. This Minister bears the same designation (Purohita or Purodhas, *lit.*, 'Leader') throughout, but his functions varied with a tendency to gradual extension. In the Jātakas and Dharma Sūtras⁵ he is expected to be versed both in sacred law and politics. Āpastamba¹ expects him to judge cases where *Prāyaśchitta* or penance was to be inflicted. He was also to try Brahmins on behalf of the king. The Artha-Śāstra² requires him to be learned in the Veda and its *Aṅgas*, in astrology, and in politics, and that he should also know the Atharvan rites, which were to be performed in cases of national calamities to satisfy the common people. The Śukra-Nīti³ demands a knowledge of the military science and art as well in the Purohita