The State in Ancient India: A Study in the Structure and Practical Working of Political Institutions in North India in Ancient Times c5.25

c5.25

Caste would naturally influence the composition of the governing body. It would entrust government to the Kṣatriyas and, though the rule was sometimes violated, its prescription was generally effective. At the same time the Brāhmaṇas were, socially and religiously too important and, intellectually, too powerful, to be left out of political counsels. Brāhmaṇa priests or ministers were often by the side of the king. Legal difficulties were often submitted to Brāhmaṇa pariṣads or committees for solution. Attempts were made to enlist the moral support of the Brāhmaṇas for the government. Law, which is an expression of the social spirit, reflected caste at numerous points in ancient India.