{"id":98275,"date":"2026-04-14T13:56:11","date_gmt":"2026-04-14T08:26:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/?p=98275"},"modified":"2026-04-14T13:56:11","modified_gmt":"2026-04-14T08:26:11","slug":"edicts-of-ashoka","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/edicts-of-ashoka\/","title":{"rendered":"Edicts of Ashoka, Types, Major-Minor Rock &#038; Pillar Edicts"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Ashoka Edicts<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are among the most important sources of ancient Indian history. These inscriptions were issued by Ashoka, the great ruler of the Mauryan Empire, who ruled from 268 BCE to 232 BCE. Engraved on rocks and pillars across the Indian subcontinent, these edicts reflect his governance, moral philosophy, and commitment to <\/span><b>Dhamma (righteous conduct)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What are Ashoka Edicts?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ashoka Edicts are a collection of<\/span><b> 33 inscriptions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> carved on rocks and pillars. These proclamations were meant to communicate the king\u2019s policies, ethical teachings, and administrative instructions directly to the public. Most of these inscriptions were written in the <\/span><b>Prakrit language<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> using the <\/span><b>Brahmi script<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, making them accessible to common people.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Discovery and Decipherment<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The discovery and decipherment of Ashokan inscriptions was a major breakthrough in understanding ancient Indian history. These inscriptions were first successfully read in 1837 by <\/span><b>James Prinsep<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. He identified the script and decoded the term \u201c<\/span><b>Devanampiya Piyadasi<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,\u201d which referred to Emperor Ashoka. This helped historians confirm the authorship of the edicts and reconstruct the history of the Mauryan Empire.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Types of Ashoka Edicts<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The edicts of Ashoka are classified based on the medium on which they were inscribed, such as rocks and pillars. These inscriptions provide valuable insights into administration, moral values, and the concept of Dhamma during the Mauryan Empire.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Major Rock Edicts<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Major Rock Edicts of Ashoka are a set of 14 detailed inscriptions carved on large rocks across the Mauryan Empire. These edicts mainly focus on the principles of Dhamma, welfare policies, non-violence, and moral governance.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Engraved on large natural rock surfaces for public visibility<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located mainly in frontier and strategic regions to spread royal messages<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Written primarily in <\/span><b>Prakrit language<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> using <\/span><b>Brahmi script<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some north-western inscriptions use <\/span><b>Kharosthi, Greek, and Aramaic<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reflect Ashoka\u2019s transformation after the Kalinga War<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus on non-violence, religious tolerance, social welfare, and ethical conduct<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Introduce administrative officers like <\/span><b>Dhamma Mahamatras<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Promote harmony between different religious sects<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"tb-color\" style=\"text-align: center;\" colspan=\"3\"><b>Major Rock Edicts<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Edict No.<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><b>Location<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><b>Important Features<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict I<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Girnar, Shahbazgarhi<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complete ban on animal sacrifices in royal ceremonies; restriction on festive gatherings involving killing; reduction in slaughter in royal kitchens; promotes compassion towards all living beings<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict II<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Girnar, Sopara<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mentions southern kingdoms (Cholas, Pandyas, Satyaputras, Keralaputras); provision of medical facilities for humans and animals; construction of wells, roads, and planting of medicinal herbs and trees; reflects welfare state concept<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict III<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kalsi<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Orders respect towards Brahmanas and Shramanas; instructs officials (Yuktas, Rajukas, Pradesikas) to tour every five years; emphasizes obedience to parents, generosity, and moral discipline<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict IV<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dhauli, Jaugada<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Replacement of war drum (Berighosa) with Dhamma message (Dhammaghosa); decline in violent practices; highlights moral progress of society due to Dhamma<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict V<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Girnar<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Appointment of Dhamma Mahamatras to oversee moral welfare; focus on care for prisoners, slaves, elderly, and women; encourages humane treatment and social justice<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict VI<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kalsi<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">King\u2019s accessibility to subjects at all times; prompt redressal of grievances; emphasis on efficient administration and continuous communication between ruler and people<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict VII<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dhauli<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Promotes religious tolerance and coexistence; encourages mutual respect among sects; highlights unity in diversity<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict VIII<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kalsi<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mentions pilgrimage to Bodh Gaya; replaces hunting expeditions with Dharmayatras; encourages moral and spiritual upliftment<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict IX<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Girnar<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Criticism of empty rituals and ceremonies; stresses importance of moral conduct, respect, and charity; encourages simple living<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict X<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kalsi<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rejects desire for fame and glory; emphasizes that true achievement lies in spreading Dhamma and ethical behavior<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict XI<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dhauli<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provides clear definition of Dhamma: respect for elders, kindness, truthfulness, generosity, and purity; promotes ethical way of life<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict XII<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Girnar<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Strong appeal for religious tolerance; encourages dialogue and understanding among different sects; condemns religious intolerance<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict XIII<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dhauli, Jaugada<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Detailed account of the Kalinga War; expresses deep remorse for loss of life; promotes policy of Dhamma Vijaya (conquest through righteousness); mentions spread of Dhamma to foreign regions<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Rock Edict XIV<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Multiple locations<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explains purpose of inscriptions; states variations in language and style for different regions; shows systematic communication strategy of the empire<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><b>2. Minor Rock Edicts<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Minor Rock Edicts<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of Ashoka are earlier and shorter inscriptions that mainly reflect his <\/span><b>personal beliefs, conversion to Buddhism, and practical aspects of Dhamma<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. These edicts are less elaborate than the Major Rock Edicts but are very important for understanding the early phase of his rule in the Mauryan Empire.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provide insight into Ashoka\u2019s <\/span><b>personal transformation after embracing Buddhism<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus more on <\/span><b>individual moral conduct<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> rather than detailed administration<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Written in <\/span><b>simple language<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for common people<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Found mainly in <\/span><b>remote and interior regions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of the empire<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Important for identifying Ashoka as <\/span><b>\u201cDevanampiya Piyadasi\u201d<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some inscriptions directly mention the name <\/span><b>Ashoka<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"tb-color\" style=\"text-align: center;\" colspan=\"3\"><b>Minor Rock Edicts<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Edict Name<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><b>Location<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><b>Important Features<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maski Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Karnataka<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First inscription where the name \u201cAshoka\u201d appears clearly; confirms identity as Devanampiya Piyadasi<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brahmagiri Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Karnataka<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emphasizes moral conduct, obedience to elders, and following Dhamma<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sasaram Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Highlights Ashoka\u2019s message of discipline and righteous living<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rupanath Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Madhya Pradesh<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focus on self-control, moral behavior, and devotion<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bhabru (Bairat) Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rajasthan<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mentions Buddhist texts recommended for monks; shows Ashoka\u2019s faith in Buddhism<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gujarra Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Madhya Pradesh<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contains the name \u201cAshoka\u201d; reinforces identity of the emperor<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nittur Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Karnataka<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Promotes ethical living and adherence to Dhamma<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Udegolam Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Karnataka<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Encourages discipline and moral responsibility among people<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ahraura Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Uttar Pradesh<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focuses on following righteous path and moral teachings<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><b>3. Major Pillar Edicts<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Major Pillar Edicts of Ashoka are a set of <\/span><b>seven inscriptions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> engraved on stone pillars, representing the mature phase of his rule in the Mauryan Empire. These edicts mainly focus on administration, justice, public welfare, and a detailed explanation of Dhamma.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Total of <\/span><b>7 pillar edicts (I-VII)<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inscribed on <\/span><b>polished sandstone pillars<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, known for their high craftsmanship<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Belong to the <\/span><b>later period<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of Ashoka\u2019s reign<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Found mainly in <\/span><b>Central and Northern India<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Written in <\/span><b>Prakrit language using Brahmi script<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provide detailed instructions about <\/span><b>administration and duties of officials<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emphasize <\/span><b>justice, compassion, and ethical governance<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Highlight Ashoka\u2019s concern for <\/span><b>prisoners, animals, and common people<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"tb-color\" style=\"text-align: center;\" colspan=\"2\"><b>Major Pillar Edicts<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Pillar Edict<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><b>Important Features<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pillar Edict I<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emphasizes protection and welfare of people; promotes moral behavior; highlights king\u2019s responsibility towards subjects<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pillar Edict II<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Defines Dhamma as compassion, charity, purity, truthfulness, and minimum sins; encourages ethical living<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pillar Edict III<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Condemns sins such as anger, cruelty, pride, and jealousy; encourages self-control and moral discipline<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pillar Edict IV<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mentions duties and responsibilities of Rajukas (officials); ensures fair justice and administration<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pillar Edict V<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lists animals and birds that should not be killed; regulates slaughter; mentions release of 25 prisoners; reflects humanitarian approach<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pillar Edict VI<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explains policy of Dhamma; emphasizes quick decision-making and administrative efficiency; promotes welfare measures<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pillar Edict VII<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Longest edict; summarizes Ashoka\u2019s Dhamma policy; promotes religious tolerance, charity, kindness, and moral progress<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><b>4. Minor Pillar Edicts<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Minor Pillar Edicts of Ashoka are a set of shorter inscriptions engraved on pillars that belong to the early phase of his reign in the Mauryan Empire. These edicts mainly focus on religious discipline, Buddhist Sangha regulations, and royal instructions, reflecting Ashoka\u2019s growing inclination towards Buddhism.<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"tb-color\" style=\"text-align: center;\" colspan=\"3\"><b>Minor Pillar Edicts<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><b>Edict Name<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><b>Location<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><b>Important Features<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Schism Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sarnath, Sanchi<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Warns monks and nuns against creating divisions in the Sangha; strict punishment for those causing schism; ensures unity and discipline<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Queen\u2019s Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Allahabad<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mentions charitable donations made by Ashoka\u2019s queens; orders that these donations be properly recorded and credited<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rummindei Pillar Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lumbini<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Records Ashoka\u2019s visit to the birthplace of Buddha; grants tax reduction and special privileges to the village<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nigali Sagar Pillar Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nigali Sagar<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mentions Ashoka\u2019s reverence for Kanakamuni Buddha; records enlargement of a stupa and religious devotion<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kosambi (Allahabad) Edict<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kaushambi<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Related to Sangha discipline; reinforces obedience to royal authority and Buddhist teachings<\/span><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><b>Important Rock Edicts Features<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The pillars of Ashoka are among the finest examples of ancient Indian art, architecture, and political communication during the Mauryan Empire. These monolithic sandstone pillars were not only symbols of authority but also carried inscriptions that conveyed <\/span><b>Dhamma, administrative policies, and later historical records<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, making them invaluable historical sources.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Allahabad\u2013Kaushambi Pillar (Prayagraj Pillar)<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Originally located at Kaushambi on the banks of the Yamuna River<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Later shifted to Prayagraj during the medieval period<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is an <\/span><b><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/ashoka-pillar\/\" target=\"_blank\">Ashokan pillar<\/a> (Ashoka Stambha)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with inscriptions in <\/span><b>Brahmi script and Prakrit language<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contains <\/span><b>six Major Pillar Edicts<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> similar to other Ashokan pillars<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also includes the famous <\/span><b>Prayag Prashasti<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of Samudragupta<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This inscription was composed by Harishena in <\/span><b>Sanskrit using Gupta script<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It praises Samudragupta\u2019s <\/span><b>military conquests and political achievements<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Later, Jahangir also added inscriptions on the same pillar<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thus, this pillar represents a <\/span><b>continuous historical record from Mauryan to Mughal period<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>2. Delhi-Meerut and Delhi-Topra Pillars<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>Delhi-Meerut Pillar<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located on the <\/span><b>Delhi Ridge<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in Delhi<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Originally from Meerut\/Topra region, later transported by Firoz Shah Tughlaq<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contains <\/span><b>seven edicts of <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/ashoka\/\" target=\"_blank\">Ashoka<\/a><\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in <\/span><b>Brahmi script<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Includes several minor inscriptions and engravings added later<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reflects Ashoka\u2019s emphasis on <\/span><b>morality, governance, and public welfare<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Delhi-Topra Pillar<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in Feroz Shah Kotla<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Originally erected at Topra (Haryana) and moved to Delhi by Firoz Shah Tughlaq<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inscribed in <\/span><b>Brahmi script<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with Ashokan edicts<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conveys core principles of <\/span><b>Dhamma: virtue, social harmony, and piety<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unique feature: includes <\/span><b>references related to taxation policies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, showing administrative depth<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>3. Lauria Nandangarh Pillar<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in West Champaran<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contains <\/span><b>six Ashokan pillar edicts<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in <\/span><b>Prakrit language and Brahmi script<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Features a <\/span><b>single lion capital<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, symbolizing royal authority<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pillar surface includes <\/span><b>engraved peacock figures<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, indicating artistic excellence<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nearby archaeological remains include <\/span><b>large burial mounds (stupas\/tombs)<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These mounds are believed to belong to the <\/span><b>pre-Mauryan period<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, possibly linked to ancient republics like Vrijjis and Mallas<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indicates continuity of religious and cultural traditions<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>4. Lauria Areraj Pillar<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in East Champaran<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Erected around <\/span><b>249 BCE<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> by Ashoka<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Made from a <\/span><b>single block of polished sandstone<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contains <\/span><b>six pillar edicts<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Currently <\/span><b>without its capital (top structure)<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reflects Ashoka\u2019s efforts to spread Dhamma in eastern regions<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>5. Rampurva Pillars<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in West Champaran<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Two Ashokan pillars discovered at the site<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One pillar has a <\/span><b>bull capital<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while the other has a <\/span><b>lion capital<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>lion pillar contains inscriptions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while the bull pillar is <\/span><b>without inscriptions<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The animal capitals symbolize <\/span><b>strength, authority, and guardianship<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Represent high level of <\/span><b>Mauryan art and craftsmanship<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>6. Kandahar Edicts<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in Kandahar<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Known as <\/span><b>Kandahar Greek Edicts<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, part of Ashoka\u2019s inscriptions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Written in <\/span><b>Greek and Prakrit (Aramaic influence)<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the rare <\/span><b>bilingual inscriptions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of Ashoka<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shows Ashoka\u2019s effort to communicate with <\/span><b>Greek-speaking populations<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The region was historically linked to Alexander the Great<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kandahar was a <\/span><b>strategic trade and military center<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, connecting India with Central Asia and the Middle East<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Demonstrates the <\/span><b>international scope of Mauryan Empire and Dhamma policy<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>7. Nigali Sagar Pillar Inscription<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in Nigali Sagar near Lumbini<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><b>Minor Pillar Edict<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of Ashoka<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Originally erected near the <\/span><b>stupa of Kanakamuni (Konakamana) Buddha<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Records <\/span><b>Ashoka\u2019s enlargement of the stupa<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and later his visit to the site<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chinese traveler <\/span><b>Xuanzang <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mentioned seeing this pillar with a <\/span><b>lion capital<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The capital and original stupa are now missing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provides strong evidence of <\/span><b>Ashoka\u2019s patronage of Buddhist pilgrimage sites<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Edicts of Ashoka Significance<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The edicts of Ashoka are one of the most valuable sources for understanding the political, social, and religious life of the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/mauryan-empire\/\" target=\"_blank\">Mauryan Empire<\/a><\/strong>. These inscriptions not only reflect Ashoka\u2019s policies but also reveal his vision of a moral, welfare-oriented, and inclusive state.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provide <\/span><b>authentic and reliable historical evidence<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> about the Mauryan period and Ashoka\u2019s rule<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Help historians reconstruct the political history and territorial extent of the empire<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Show the transformation of Ashoka from a conqueror to a promoter of peace and non-violence<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reflect the concept of <\/span><b>Dhamma as a universal moral code<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> based on compassion, truth, and discipline<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Demonstrate the idea of <\/span><b>welfare state<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, including medical care, roads, wells, and plantations<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reveal the structure of administration through references to officials like Rajukas and Dhamma Mahamatras<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Show that the king maintained <\/span><b>direct communication with people<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> through inscriptions<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emphasize <\/span><b>religious tolerance<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, encouraging respect for all sects and beliefs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Provide early and strong evidence of the spread and influence of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/buddhism\/\" target=\"_blank\"><b>Buddhism<\/b><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Encourage social values such as respect for elders, obedience to parents, and kindness to servants<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oppose meaningless rituals and promote ethical and moral living instead<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Highlight concern for <\/span><b>animal welfare and environmental protection<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indicate development of infrastructure such as roads, rest houses, and water facilities<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Show the use of <\/span><b>local languages like Prakrit<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, making messages accessible to common people<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Help in understanding ancient scripts like Brahmi and Kharosthi<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reflect cultural unity across diverse regions of the empire<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ashoka Edicts highlight Mauryan administration, Dhamma, rock and pillar inscriptions, social ethics, religious tolerance, and Ashoka\u2019s transformation after Kalinga War.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":25,"featured_media":98266,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[786],"tags":[5732,6855,5420],"class_list":{"0":"post-98275","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-general-studies","8":"tag-ancient-indian-history","9":"tag-edicts-of-ashoka","10":"tag-indian-history","11":"no-featured-image-padding"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/98275","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/25"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=98275"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/98275\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":98288,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/98275\/revisions\/98288"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/98266"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=98275"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=98275"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=98275"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}