Ashoka, the third emperor of the Maurya dynasty, is famous for his Rock Edicts, which were inscribed on rocks and pillars across the Indian subcontinent during his reign (268–232 BCE).
These edicts promote his policies, particularly focusing on dharma (moral law), non-violence (ahimsa), tolerance, welfare, and good governance.
Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism influenced his policies, making the edicts significant for understanding his transformation from a warlike king to a promoter of peace.
Key Features of Ashoka’s Rock Edicts
Written in Prakrit language, using the Brahmi script.
The inscriptions are found on rock surfaces and stone pillars.
There are 14 Major Rock Edicts and other minor inscriptions scattered across modern-day India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
Classification of Edicts
The Rock Edicts are divided into Major and Minor Edicts, with Major Edicts focusing on public welfare and Minor Edicts addressing religious issues.
Major Rock Edicts (1 to 14)
Edict 1: Proclamation of Ashoka’s commitment to dharma (moral law) and non-violence.
Edict 2-7: Details of moral and social welfare, emphasizing respect for elders, non-violence, animal welfare, and ethics.
Edict 8-14: Instructions to officials, governance policies, and Ashoka’s guidance on the role of Buddhism in society, focusing on spreading peace and tolerance.
Key Themes of the Edicts
Theme
Details
Dhamma (Dharma)
Ashoka’s commitment to spreading the teachings of Buddhism, ethical behavior, and social welfare.
Non-Violence (Ahimsa)
Emphasized compassion towards all living beings and the rejection of animal sacrifice.
Social Welfare
Promoted the welfare of people through policies on health, education, and justice.
Religious Tolerance
Encouraged respect for all religious beliefs, especially after his conversion to Buddhism.
Moral Governance
Called on kings, officials, and people to be just, fair, and compassionate in their dealings.
Propagation of Dhamma
Established Dhamma Mahamatras (officers) to spread his teachings.
Important Rock Edicts & Locations
Edict
Location
Description
Edict 1
Kalsi (Uttarakhand)
Proclaims Ashoka’s commitment to dharma.
Edict 2-3
Sanchi (Madhya Pradesh)
Focuses on moral conduct and non-violence.
Edict 4-5
Girnar (Gujarat)
Describes Ashoka’s adoption of Buddhism.
Edict 6
Delhi-Topra (Haryana)
Advocates for respect towards all religions.
Edict 7
Lauriya Nandangarh (Bihar)
Establishes Ashoka’s principles of governance.
Edict 8-9
Kalinga (Odisha)
Promotes peace, non-violence, and human welfare post-Kalinga war.
Edict 10
Lumbini (Nepal)
Commemorates Ashoka’s visit to Buddha’s birthplace.
Edict 12-14
Various Locations
Spreads Buddhist teachings and Ashoka’s public morality.
Dhamma and Governance
Ashoka’s Dhamma is a moral code that integrates Buddhist values with governance. It emphasizes the following:
Governance Aspect
Edict Reference
Details
Just Rule
Edict 1, 7
Ashoka pledges to rule justly and promote the welfare of his subjects.
Promotion of Social Welfare
Edict 2-3, 6
Ashoka sets up hospitals, roads, wells, and rest houses for people and animals.
Religious Tolerance
Edict 6-8
Ashoka advocates for the respect and tolerance of all religions.
Administration of Dhamma
Edict 8-13
Establishment of Dhamma Mahamatras (officials) to spread moral governance.
Impact of Ashoka’s Rock Edicts
Cultural Legacy: Ashoka’s edicts contributed to the spread of Buddhism across India and beyond.
Governance Influence: His moral principles of governance influenced later rulers.
Peace and Tolerance: The emphasis on peace, tolerance, and non-violence resonated in Indian society and world history.
Key Takeaways
Ashoka’s Rock Edicts reflect his transformation from a warrior king to a benevolent ruler.
They are important historical documents for understanding the political, moral, and social conditions of ancient India.
The spread of Buddhism through the edicts played a major role in shaping the religious landscape of South Asia.
The Dhamma was not merely a religious doctrine but a comprehensive policy for social and political welfare.
Timeline of Ashoka’s Major Events and Edicts
Date
Event
268 BCE
Ashoka ascends the Mauryan throne.
261 BCE
Kalinga War – A brutal war that leads to Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism.
260-258 BCE
Beginning of the Rock Edicts inscription.
260 BCE onwards
Spread of Dhamma and establishment of Dhamma Mahamatras.
232 BCE
Ashoka’s death and the continued influence of his edicts.
Conclusion
Ashoka’s Major Rock Edicts serve as a monumental historical record, not only of his rule but also of the moral and philosophical principles that guided his governance. The inscriptions highlight his dedication to peace, tolerance, and welfare, making them a critical study for both historical and ethical understanding in UPSC preparation.
