The Customs of the Brahmans

This work by St. Ambrose is one of the first texts in the West to attempt to give insight into India's priestly class. The processing narrative presents a detailed account of the Brahmans, a group known for their ascetic lifestyle, as recounted by a traveler who sought to learn from them. It highlights their customs, beliefs, and interactions with Alexander the Great, who, despite his conquests, is portrayed as lacking the true wisdom the Brahmans embody. Through dialogues with Dandamis, a Brahman sage, the text critiques the pursuit of wealth and power, advocating for a life of simplicity, spirituality, and harmony with nature. The Brahmans' philosophy underscores the importance of inner peace over external achievements.