Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c6.18.4

c6.18.4

Even if they are guilty of the highest crimes such as the murder of a Brâhmaṇa, violation of the bed of their preceptors or seniors, causing miscarriage, or treason against the state, they are only to be exiled,² though in a later passage we are told that all traitors, be they preceptors, kinsmen or friends, should be slain.³ On learned virtuous Brâhmaṇas the king should bestow all the land conquered in war. Apart from privileges, theory sometimes makes claims of an extreme character for the Brâhmaṇas. Charged with the upkeep of the Vedas and other scriptures, the Brâhmaṇa appears on earth as the lord of all creatures. In consequence of his birth and precedence, he is the master of everything that exists in the universe. What he eats is his own. The place he inhabits is his own. What he gives away is his own. If the Kṣatriya wields sovereignty, it is because the Brāhmaṇa refused it.¹ In any case, the fundamental laws of the social order must be enforced. It was the eternal duty of kings to prevent the confusion of castes and duties.² That indeed, is one of the objects for which government had come into being.