Analytical study of the state in the Suttantapitaka

Abstract

As states were born from evils, so it was necessary to select the persons who had good knowledge and capabilities for serving as the rulers of states. The rulers would use power based mainly on the concept of “power”. The power in this sense meant power with justice. States, as the communities of human beings, had their nature of being born, grown and decayed in accordance the principle of Tilakkhana (three Characteristics). They, however, had their own objectives and were able to successfully create the ruling principle based on Buddhist Cakkavattivatta (Emperor’s rules) which were the administrative rules and these rules would bring about an ideal society. This ideal society would have full happiness and were truly free from crimes and distinction in social status and property. In this society the people enjoyed good health and were free from all kind of sickness.