40
last, however, after many years had gone, most of the cities adopted the democratic form of government, though some retained the kingly until the invasion of the country by Alexander. 39Of several remarkable customs existing among the Indians, there is one prescribed by their ancient philosophers which one may regard as truly admirable: for the law ordains that no one among them shall, under any circumstances, be a slave, but that, enjoying freedom, they shall respect the equal right to it which all possess: for those, they thought, who have learned neither to domineer over nor to cringe to others will attain the life best adapted for all vicissitudes of lot: for it is but fair and reasonable to institute laws which bind all equally, but allow property to be unevenly distributed.
(40.) 40The whole population of India is divided into seven castes, of which the first is formed by the collective body of the Philosophers,[ref 1] which in point of number is inferior to the other classes, but in point of dignity preeminent over all. For the philosophers, being exempted from all public duties, are neither the masters nor the servants of others. 41They are, however, engaged by private persons to offer the sacrifices due in lifetime, and to celebrate the obsequies of
- ↑ Φιλόσοφοι, Strabo, Diod. Σοφισταί, Arr.
