Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c9.s1.14

c9.s1.14

¹ Ibid., III. 38, 38-39, 47-49, Ch. V. Viṣṇu's solicitude for animal life is extraordinary. The killing of an elephant, a horse, a camel or a cow should be punished with the amputation of a hand and a foot (V. 48). Fines of various amounts are prescribed for killing domestic animals, wild animals, birds, fish or insects (VV. 50-54). See also Chs. XXXIII-XLII for penances ranging from voluntary death by fire to trivial ceremonies. See also Chs. L-LVI.