Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c7.21

c7.21

The enforcement of law as of the social order is part of the protection for which the kingship was instituted. There was at first no king. As a result, the people found themselves in trouble and fled in all directions. For their protection, the Lord created a king.² The kingship is thus divine in origin, though utilitarian in purpose. The king was composed out of the eternal particles of the gods, Indra, Varuṇa, Yama, the Wind, Fire, the Sun and the Moon. The king performs the functions of them all on earth and surpasses all created beings in lustre. According to the purpose, occasion and circumstances, he assumes various forms "for the complete attainment of justice." All should honour the king. It is exceedingly foolish and suicidal to hate him. None should disobey him.³