The King

Abstract

The King, according to ancient Indian Dharmasastra, texts on customs and traditions and literary works, is the guardian or protector of the earth and his subjects in accordance with the dharma. The King is an intermediary between the powers of nature and society, he is thus the source of rainfall and the well being of the people. The King who observes dharma is regarded as being born from portions of gods, especially the eight world guardian gods. According to the Buddhist texts, the King who performs good deeds will become an emperor, cakravartin when lives on earth. When he dies he will be born as the god Indra, governing heaven, rescuing good people and punishing those guilty of heinous crime. Thai regard the King as Bodhisattva who is consecrated by the common consent of the people to guard and lead them into peaceful livelihood.