Sāma, Dāna, Bheda, Danda

Sāma, Dāna, Bheda, Danda is a method of persuasion used by the Hindu Kshatriyas. These are four of the seven techniques used by Kings to rule their Kingdoms. The other three being, "Māya", "Upeksha", "Indrajālā".

This is a political methodology to approach a given situation. Start with conciliation or gentle persuasion ("Sāma"). If that does not help, offer a bribe ("Dāna"). If that still does not change the status quo, use threat or cause dissension ("Bheda"). Use punishment or violence ("Danda") to resolve the situation where the previous three fail. Use of illusions or deceit ("Māya") , deliberately ignoring people ("Upeksha"), use of jugglery ("Indrajālā") are also suggested to resolve any situation. These seven tactics find use in everyday life even today.

See also

* Agni Purana

References

* cite news
last =
first =
coauthors =
title = The seven habits of highly effective kings
work =
pages =
language = English
publisher = The Hindu Business Line
date= Monday, Aug 04, 2003
url = http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/bline/mentor/2003/08/04/stories/2003080400341100.htm
accessdate = 2006-10-06

*cite web
last = Krishnananda
first = Swami
authorlink =
coauthors =
title = The Plight of the Pandavas
work = The Spiritual Import of the Mahabharata and the Bhagavadgita
publisher = The Divine Life Society
date=
url = http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/maha/maha_01.html
format =
doi =
accessdate = 2006-10-06