(xiii) Major Rock Edict of Asoka

The Major Rock Edicts are a cornerstone of ancient Indian history, offering direct glimpses into Emperor Ashoka's vision for a just and benevolent rule. These 14 edicts, often duplicated with slight variations across ten known locations, reflect Ashoka's remorse over the Kalinga War and his subsequent commitment to propagating Dhamma as an alternative to coercive governance.

Key Features and Locations of Major Rock Edicts

• Geographical Spread: The edicts are found on the frontiers of the Mauryan territory, including sites like Kalsi (Uttarakhand), Girnar (Gujarat), Sopara (Maharashtra), Yerragudi (Andhra Pradesh), Dhauli and Jaugada (Odisha), Mansehra and Shahbazgarhi (Pakistan), and Kandahar (Afghanistan).
• Language and Script: Predominantly in Prakrit using the Brahmi script in central and eastern India. In the northwest, they appear in Prakrit (Kharoshthi script), Greek, and Aramaic (e.g., Kandahar bilingual edict).
• Decipherment: These inscriptions were first deciphered by the British archaeologist James Prinsep in 1837, unlocking a wealth of information about the Mauryan period.

Contents of the 14 Major Rock Edicts

Each of the fourteen Major Rock Edicts conveys a specific message, collectively outlining Ashoka's Dhamma:

1. Edict I: Prohibition of Animal Slaughter and Festive Gatherings. Emphasizes non-violence, forbidding animal sacrifices and certain festive assemblies that involved harm to living beings.
2. Edict II: Provision for Medical Care and Welfare. Details provisions for medical treatment for humans and animals, planting of medicinal herbs, fruits, and digging of wells. Mentions southern kingdoms like Cholas, Pandyas, Satyaputras, and Keralaputras.
3. Edict III: Generosity to Brahmins and Ascetics, and Inspection Tours. Encourages liberality towards Brahmins and Sramanas. Mentions that Yuktas, Pradeshikas, and Rajukas would undertake quinquennial tours (every five years) to spread Dhamma.
4. Edict IV: Dhamma-Ghosha over Bheri-Ghosha. Declares the "sound of Dhamma" (moral righteousness) as superior to the "sound of war" (war drums), reflecting his shift from military conquest to moral persuasion.
5. Edict V: Appointment of Dhamma-Mahamatras. Discusses the appointment of Dhamma-Mahamatras (officers of Dhamma) to spread its message, look after the welfare of all sects, and ensure fair treatment, especially for slaves and servants.
6. Edict VI: King's Desire for Public Welfare. Expresses Ashoka's desire to be accessible to his people at all times and his commitment to the welfare of all, emphasizing quick and efficient administration.
7. Edict VII: Tolerance for all Religious Sects. Advocates for religious harmony and tolerance among all sects, stating that all desire self-control and purity of mind.
8. Edict VIII: Dhamma-Yatras. Describes Ashoka's first Dhamma-Yatra (pilgrimage) to Bodh Gaya and the Bodhi tree, replacing traditional pleasure tours (Vihara-Yatras).
9. Edict IX: Condemnation of Popular Ceremonies and Stress on Dhamma. Criticizes meaningless rituals and ceremonies, advocating for Dhamma-based ceremonies that yield better results, such as kindness to servants, respect for elders, and generosity.
10. Edict X: Condemnation of Desire for Fame and Glory. Emphasizes that true glory and fame should be achieved through the propagation of Dhamma.
11. Edict XI: Explanation of Dhamma. Further elaborates on the meaning of Dhamma, highlighting its principles like kindness, compassion, truthfulness, and purity.
12. Edict XII: Appeal for Tolerance. A passionate appeal for tolerance among all religious sects, stressing the importance of mutual respect and understanding to prevent sectarian strife.
13. Edict XIII: Kalinga War and Ashoka's Remorse. Considered the most significant edict, it describes the horrors and devastation of the Kalinga War (circa 261 BCE), Ashoka's deep remorse, and his subsequent conversion to Buddhism, declaring his victory through Dhamma (Dhammavijaya).
14. Edict XIV: Purpose of the Edicts. Explains the reasons for issuing these edicts, stating that some were repeated due to various factors like the nature of the terrain or the understanding of the people.

Significance of the Major Rock Edicts

These edicts are invaluable not only as historical records but also as moral and administrative treatises. They:

• Provide insights into Ashoka's personal transformation and his administrative policies.
• Demonstrate the early spread and principles of Buddhism in India.
• Serve as a primary source for understanding Mauryan society, polity, and culture.
• Highlight Ashoka's commitment to social justice, ethical governance, and the welfare of his subjects, earning him the epithet "Devanampiya Piyadasi" (Beloved of the Gods).