King and the State: A Concise Discussion on the Polity in the Atharveveda

Author(s): Dr. Swatilekha Poddar

Abstract:

Among the Vedic texts, the Atharvaveda holds a prominent position, ranking just after the Ṛgveda. What sets the Atharvaveda apart is its remarkable diversity of subjects, particularly its detailed focus on statecraft and governance. The Atharva Samhita devotes significant attention to rājkarmāṇi-the functions and responsibilities of the king-which reveals a well-developed understanding of the state system. This Veda serves as a foundational source for later political thought, influencing texts like Kautilya’s Arthaśāstra and various smṛtiśāstras. These later works frequently cite the Atharvaveda as an authoritative reference. For instance, the Yajnavalkyasmṛti states: “Purohitaṃ prakurvit...kuśalamatharvāṅgirase tathā,” while Kautilya affirms in the Arthaśāstra: “Atharvabihitaṃ karma kuryāt śāntipouṣṭikam.” While other Vedas do touch upon aspects of governance, it is in the Atharvaveda that one finds the most comprehensive treatment of political theory. The sūktas of the Atharva-saṃhitā articulate nuanced ideas concerning state ideology, loyalty to the state, royal authority, assemblies, duties and election of the king, coronation ceremonies, administrative planning, judicial practices, and even psychological and social bonds within the polity. These theories, often embedded in the form of sutras, are further elaborated in the Kauśikasūtra—the Dharma Sutra of the Atharvaveda-and the Atharva-pariśiṣṭta. Through careful study of these texts, one can gain valuable insights into the public administration and political organization of Ātharvaṇa society.

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Pages: 30-32     |    1 View     |    0 Download