Question

What difference do you find in the position of the King of the Early Vedic Age as compared to the King of the Later Vedic Age?

Answer 1

During the Early Vedic period, the Rajan (king) was the head of the tribe. His chief occupation was fighting battles to defend and protect the tribe and its territory. His position was not hereditary and the two tribal assemblies — Sabha and Samiti — checked his power. The king was in most cases selected or chosen by the tribal heads due to his bravery and wisdom. During the Later Vedic period, the position of the king became stronger. He gained absolute power and his position became hereditary. He started claiming himself to be the representative of God. He performed several complex sacrifices (yajnas) to augment his power and prestige — Ashwamedha, Vajapeya and Rajasuya. He also assumed titles of ‘Samrat’ and ‘Mahadhiraj’