The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The "Circle of Justice" is a political theory recorded by the 13th-century historian
Fakhr-i Mudabbir. It describes the interdependence between the ruler, the military, the peasantry, and justice, forming the foundational philosophy of statecraft during the early Delhi Sultanate.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The "Circle of Justice" explicitly emphasized that the king's survival was dependent on the peasantry. The logic posited that a king cannot survive without soldiers, and soldiers cannot be maintained without salaries. Since salaries are derived from revenue collected from peasants, the peasantry is the root of the state's stability.
- Statement 2 is Correct. The theory clearly stated that soldiers need salaries to serve the king, and these salaries are funded by the revenue collected from the peasants. Thus, the military strength of the state is directly linked to the agricultural economy.
- Statement 3 is Correct. Fakhr-i Mudabbir argued that peasants can only pay revenue if they are prosperous and happy. This prosperity is only possible when the king promotes justice and honest governance. Therefore, justice is not just a moral virtue but an economic necessity for the survival of the state.
Key Takeaway
The
Circle of Justice establishes a cyclical relationship: King → Soldiers → Salaries → Revenue → Peasants → Justice → King. It highlights that agrarian prosperity, ensured by just governance, is the bedrock of military and political power.