Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c6.171

c6.171

Whatever the code of war or diplomacy, the ethics of the battlefield are high enough. Here a Kṣatriya may oppose deceit by deceit but should always be fair in response to fairness. He should not proceed on horseback against a car-warrior and should not wear armour when pitted against one unclad in mail. He should not strike one who has been disabled, who has fallen into distress, whose bow-string has been cut or who has lost his vehicles. A wounded opponent should be sent home or properly treated by skilful surgeons. If a wounded righteous warrior is taken captive, he should be cured and then set at liberty. "This is the eternal duty." A warrior whose armour has fallen off, who begs for quarter saying, "I am thine," who joins his hands in supplication or who has laid his weapon aside, may be seized but should not be slain. Nor should one kill those who are asleep, thirsty,