Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c8.s4.41

c8.s4.41

Besides state officials proper, there were a number of ecclesiastical and household officers. The Sacrificial Priest, the High Priest, and the Teacher, ranked among the highest personages of the realm. The door-keeper and superintendent of the harem were placed in the second grade. The fore-teller, the astrologer, the reader of omens, the reader of Purāṇas, the sacrificial priests, the retinue of the priest, the story-teller, and the bard, occupied the same position as the Superintendents of Departments. The sorcerer and, most curious of all, the honourable playmate of the king, came a little lower. The bodyguards and attendants stood much lower.