Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c6.18.3

c6.18.3

He is entitled to work but he is not to amass wealth lest he should lord it over the superior orders. In fact, there is no wealth which he can call his own. All his possessions belong lawfully to his master. He should receive worn-out clothing and other such goods.¹ Beyond the order of four castes lay the border tribes—Yavanas, Kirātas, Gāndhāras, Chinas, Barbars, etc., etc. They are entitled to perform certain Vedic rites and to make presents to Brāhmaṇas. "They should dig wells and give water to thirsty travellers.¹ But on the whole, they lie beyond the pale of the Hindu social system. That system, then, may be described as consisting of the privileged Dwijas on the one hand and a servile proletariat on the other. The privileged order comprised an aristocracy of learning and religion, another of arms and lastly, followers of various occupations. The Brâhmaṇas enjoyed some exceptional privileges. They were to receive honour and presents from all. Even the king should worship Brâhmaṇas who lived up to the ideal. Their lapses from morality were to be punished with a gentle hand. They are, as a rule, exempt from corporal punishment.