Discussion
• While such friction could foster the localization of loyalties,
it could equally serve as a stimulus for greater co-operation
among groups as they sought to withstand attack by a
predatory neighbor
• Certain sites such as the graves of ancestors might be
designated as places where disputes could be settled by
negotiation and discussion, with the decision sealed by an
impressive oath.
• The binding medium in the creation of bonds between
communities was always kinship(blood ties), usually
formalized by a ceremony whereby two leaders accepted
each other as brothers. The ancient custom by which two
men could become brothers by together drinking each
other's blood was legitimized in Theravada Buddhist society
by the dhammathat law books.