Introduction

The concept of divine kingship has manifested across civilizations throughout history, yet the philosophical foundations and practical implications vary dramatically between cultures. The ancient bhāratīya treatise Kāmandaka Nītisāra, drawing from the earlier Arthaśāstra tradition, presents a sophisticated understanding of royal authority that differs markedly from Western, particularly Christian, conceptions of divine kingship. This examination reveals profound differences in how civilizations have understood the relationship between divine authority, earthly power, and moral responsibility.

The Bhāratīya Vision: Cosmic Integration and Moral Accountability

The King as Divine Embodiment

The opening verse of the Kāmandaka Nītisāra establishes a fundamental principle: "By whose influence the world remains on the eternal path, that divine, glorious, scepter-bearing king conquers." This verse encapsulates the bhāratīya understanding of kingship as a cosmic necessity rather than merely a political arrangement.

The commentaries reveal a sophisticated theological framework. The king is understood as an aṃśa (portion) of Viṣṇu, the cosmic preserver, making him divine by participation rather than appointment. As one commentary explains, Viṣṇu is the sthitikartā (maintainer) of the universe, and from him emanate various divine powers that flow into earthly rulers. The king thus becomes devatā (divinity) not through external investiture but through cosmic participation in the divine order.