________________
218
NARADA.
XVIII, 27.
27. When a ruler is, either justly or without (sufficient) reason, ardent in wrath and burns (or torments) his subjects, he is called Agni (the god of fire). 28. When, relying on his regal power, the king attacks his foes, desirous of victory and upraising a weapon, he is termed Indra.
29. When, free from ardent wrath, he appears before his subjects with a cheerful countenance, he is denoted Soma (the Moon).
30. When the king having seated himself, full of majesty, on the throne of judgment, deals out punishment, equitable towards all creatures, he is called Vaivasvata (or Yama).
31. When a ruler gladdens with gifts petitioners, persons commanding respect, wise men, servants and others, he is called the God of Riches.
32. Therefore one must not treat him with contempt, and, particularly, not scold at him, and pay obedience to his bidding; to disobey him would bring on (instantaneous) death.
33. His duties are, the protection of his subjects, honouring the aged and wise, the trial of lawsuits, and to make (each caste) abide by the duties assigned to it.
34. Let a king be constantly intent on showing honour to the Brahmans. A field furnished with Brahmans is the root of the prosperity of the world. 35. A Brahman may command respect, and a
27. Manu IX, 310.
29. Manu IX, 309.
33. Manu VII, 35, 38; VIII, 3, &c.
34. Manu VII, 82, 83; Yâgñavalkya I, 314. 35. Manu VII, 37.
28. Manu IX, 304. 30. Manu IX, 307.
Digitized by Google
