Significance of Alliance

In Dharmashastra, Alliance is defined as an agreement where one party cooperates or joins forces with another. This collaboration can extend to influencing decisions in warfare against a third party. Thus, the concept of Alliance encompasses both strategic partnerships and the potential for coordinated military action, underscoring its significance in the context of relationships and power dynamics.1

Synonyms: Partnership, Confederation, Union

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Alliance'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Alliance signifies a cooperative agreement between parties, emphasizing unity and strategic collaboration, particularly in contexts like warfare, thereby influencing collective decisions and actions against opposing forces.

Significance of Alliances in Dharmashastra (religious law):

Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Strategic partnerships formed between kings or states to bolster strength against common enemies.^[1] (2) An agreement to cooperate or join forces with one party, which may also influence decisions of war against another party.^[2]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

Significance of Alliances in Arthashastra (politics and welfare):

Arthashastra Books

From: Shishupala-vadha (Study)

(1) A partnership or agreement formed between kingdoms for mutual benefit, often articulated as part of the policies within shadgunya.^[3]

Arthashastra literature concerns itself with the teachings (shastra) of economic prosperity (artha) statecraft, politics and military tactics. The term arthashastra refers to both the name of these scientific teachings, as well as the name of a Sanskrit work included in such literature. This book was written (3rd century BCE) by by Kautilya, who flourished in the 4th century BCE.

Plural form: Alliances.

Last Updated: 31 October, 2024