The Political Institutions and Theories of the Hindus: A Study in Comparative Politics c15.s5.2

c15.s5.2

The gospel, "*Durch Nacht und Blut zum Licht*", i. e. the *dharma* of *puissance* or militarism is not intended exclusively for the so-called military (Kṣatriya or Samurai) caste. In Hindu thought army service has always been held to be national, i. e. the duty of every order of citizens. Brâhmaṇas (priests) can be soldiers according to the *Mahâbhârata*,¹ as well as according to the lawbooks of Gautama² and Vasiṣṭha.³ The Manu *Samhitâ* also recommends recruitment from the priestly caste.⁴ And, as noticed above, Śukra's opinion is quite clear. Baudhâyana is in favor of enlisting the Vaiśya⁵ (the so-called artisan and mercantile classes). They are eligible as soldiers in the *Mahâbhârata* also.⁶