The king of later Vedic times, whose rule extended from one ocean to another ocean, was called..................

The correct answer is - Ekraj

Key Points

• Ekraj
  • The term Ekraj signifies a king whose sovereignty extends over vast territories, encompassing regions from one ocean to another.
  • It is derived from the Later Vedic period, emphasizing the concept of a unified and centralized rule.
  • The title reflects the king’s dominance over multiple kingdoms or regions, showcasing both political and military prowess.
  • Such rulers were often considered supreme authorities, embodying the ideal of an expansive and unified monarchy.

Additional Information

• Political Structure of the Later Vedic Period
  • The Later Vedic period witnessed the emergence of larger kingdoms, replacing the smaller tribal units of the early Vedic age.
  • Kingship became hereditary, and the ruler’s authority was strengthened through military conquests and alliances.
  • Titles such as Raja, Maharaja, and Ekraj were used to denote the hierarchical positions of rulers.
• Rituals and Ceremonies
  • Vedic kings often performed grand sacrifices like Rajasuya and Ashvamedha to assert their authority and display their dominance.
  • The Ashvamedha (horse sacrifice) was specifically associated with the concept of supreme sovereignty, aligning closely with the idea of an Ekraj.
• Social and Economic Structure
  • The Later Vedic period was marked by increased stratification, with the king at the apex of the social hierarchy.
  • Trade and agriculture flourished, providing the economic foundation for expansive kingdoms like those ruled by an Ekraj.