Understanding Ancient Indian Literature
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The hermit has just convinced the king to not kill the What does the literature tell you about religious beliefs
deer. These are the reactions of the hermit and the king during the Gupta Empire?
King (bowing low): It is done, (He does so.)
O People believed that the gods would reward them if
Hermit (joyfully): A deed worthy of you, scion of Puru's they made wise choices,
race, and shining example of kings. May you beget a son
to rule earth and heaven,
O People believed that the gods would punish them if
they did the wrong thing,
King (bowing low): I am thankful for a Brahman's
blessing
O Hermits did not have much influence as the gods.
-Shakuntala, Kings were powerful gods in Gupta culture,
Kalidasa
Done