The Logic Behind Why the Khalasar Doesn't Kill Daenerys

D Game of Thrones

The television series Game of Thrones is meticulously faithful to the original novels, especially when it comes to depicting intricate cultural and societal customs. These customs play a significant role in the narrative's depth and authenticity. One such tradition involves what happens when a Khaleesi's Khal dies.

The Dosh Khaleen Tradition

When a Khaleesi loses her Khal, she is expected to return to the sacred land of Vaes Dothrak and the Mother of Mountains to become a dosh khaleen. The dosh khaleen are the widows and holy women of Vaes Dothrak. These women are revered as seers and interpreters of omens for the Dothraki people.

However, if a Khaleesi such as Daenerys chooses not to return to become a dosh khaleen, she is subject to a more somber fate. This tradition underscores the deep-rooted cultural reverence for this practice in Game of Thrones.

Daenerys and Her Precautions

The novels that follow Game of Thrones provide insight into why Daenerys is avoiding the other khalasars and their Khals. According to the storyline, they are much stronger than her own khalasar. This is a strategic move to avoid provoking unnecessary conflict.

The immediate reason Daenerys is not killed is that the portion of the khalasar that leaves her sees no justification for executing her. They believe that as a Khaleesi, it is a sacred duty to return to safety in Vaes Dothrak and become a dosh khaleen.

The Journey and Its Abandonment

The plan to escort Daenerys back to Vaes Dothrak is initially in place. However, the journey is abandoned after the dragons are born. This event alters the dynamic of Daenerys's bloodriders, as only Haggo remains loyal to her once the dragons emerge. The other bloodriders, such as Ser Jorah and Aya, become her own protectors, leading to the abandonment of the spirited journey to Vaes Dothrak.

Understanding these cultural and traditional practices enriches our appreciation of the complexities of Game of Thrones. The decisions made by the characters, particularly Daenerys, are not arbitrary but are deeply rooted in the cultural norms and societal expectations depicted in the series.