Sovereignty and the theory of divine origin in ancient hindu political legacy

Abstract

The theory on sovereign rights remains to be the most important arrangement effected towards the gradual decentralization of the sovereignty of a state and to maintain its stability. The king is God’s representative. The theory attempts only to emphasize that sovereignty is God’s grace bestowed upon the King and that no one can question him in his affairs. In many of the ancient civilizations of the world, the theory on sovereign rights may be seen exerting its influence on sovereignty. Such a trend can also be observed among the historical sources of Hindu civilization. In this regard one can also observe the main dimensions of this theory exerting their influence on Vedic literature, Dharmasastras, Arthasastra, ancient Tamil literature and also on the Inscriptions of the Mouriyans, its influence can also be identified till the 15th century A.D in countries beyond India particularly in Southeast Asian Countries that had cultural ties with India. Thus, the ‘Deva raja worship’ found prominently in countries like Cambodia. Java, Thailand and Samba can be seen reflecting another dimension of sovereign rights.