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Ashoka rock and pillaredicts Flashcards

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1
Q

Ashokan Edicts - Overview

A

Ashoka issued Major Rock Edicts, Minor Rock Edicts, Pillar Edicts, and other inscriptions to propagate Dhamma (Buddhist principles) and administrative policies.

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2
Q

Major vs. Minor Rock Edicts

A

Major Rock Edicts: Focus on governance, moral values, religious tolerance. Minor Rock Edicts: Personal messages from Ashoka, Buddhist influences, and self-reflections.

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3
Q

Major Rock Edict I

A

Prohibits animal sacrifices and promotes limited killing of animals for food in the royal kitchen.

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4
Q

Major Rock Edict II

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Mentions public welfare measures such as medical treatment for humans and animals, and plantation of medicinal herbs.

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5
Q

Major Rock Edict III

A

Instructs officials to tour every five years to propagate Dhamma among the people.

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6
Q

Major Rock Edict IV

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Describes how the impact of Dhamma has improved society and how Ashoka’s governance has reduced cruelty.

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7
Q

Major Rock Edict V

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Mentions appointment of Dhamma Mahamatras to oversee moral and religious welfare of the people, including Brahmins and women.

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8
Q

Major Rock Edict VI

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Urges officials to report directly to the King about public grievances.

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9
Q

Major Rock Edict VII

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Emphasizes religious tolerance and harmony among different sects.

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10
Q

Major Rock Edict VIII

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Mentions Ashoka’s Dhamma Yatras (pilgrimages) to Buddhist sites instead of royal hunting trips.

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11
Q

Major Rock Edict IX

A

Criticizes meaningless religious rituals and promotes acts of morality and compassion.

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12
Q

Major Rock Edict X

A

Rejects desire for fame and glory and emphasizes focus on Dhamma and social welfare.

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13
Q

Major Rock Edict XI

A

Defines Dhamma as ethical living and highlights its importance for spiritual well-being.

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14
Q

Major Rock Edict XII

A

Strongly advocates religious tolerance and condemns sectarian conflicts.

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15
Q

Major Rock Edict XIII

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Mentions Kalinga War’s destruction, Ashoka’s remorse, and his shift towards non-violence and Dhamma.

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16
Q

Major Rock Edict XIV

A

Summarizes Ashoka’s edicts, explaining that different versions were inscribed in different regions.

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17
Q

Minor Rock Edicts - Overview

A

Minor Rock Edicts are personal messages from Ashoka, found across India, focusing on Buddhism and moral teachings.

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18
Q

Minor Rock Edict I

A

Declares Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism and his efforts to spread Buddhist values.

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19
Q

Minor Rock Edict II

A

Encourages people to follow the teachings of Buddha for personal and societal welfare.

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20
Q

Minor Rock Edict III

A

Appears only in Bairat (Rajasthan), listing Buddhist scriptures recommended by Ashoka.

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21
Q

Edicts Found Outside India

A

Ashoka’s inscriptions are found in Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, showing the extent of his influence.

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22
Q

Edicts Written in Different Scripts

A

Brahmi (India), Kharosthi (Northwest), Aramaic & Greek (Afghanistan). Shows Ashoka’s efforts to reach diverse populations.

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23
Q

Ashokan Pillar Edicts - Overview

A

Ashoka issued seven Pillar Edicts inscribed on stone pillars, mostly found in north India. These edicts emphasize Dhamma (moral law), administration, and social welfare.

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24
Q

Pillar Edict I

A

Mentions Ashoka’s policy of Dhamma. Orders the practice of non-violence, kindness to servants, and obedience to parents.

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Pillar Edict II
Talks about **welfare measures** such as medical treatment for humans and animals, construction of roads, wells, and planting of medicinal herbs.
26
Pillar Edict III
Encourages **respect towards all religions** and urges officials to spread **moral and ethical teachings**.
27
Pillar Edict IV
Explains how Ashoka’s **Dhamma policy** has improved society and reduced crime. It also emphasizes **compassion and truthfulness.**
28
Pillar Edict V
Mentions the appointment of **Dhamma Mahamatras**, officials responsible for promoting moral values and ensuring justice.
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Pillar Edict VI
Emphasizes the **King’s direct communication with his subjects** and states that Ashoka is always available to listen to people's concerns.
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Pillar Edict VII
Promotes **religious harmony and tolerance**. Urges people to avoid criticizing other religions and instead focus on common moral values.
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Rampurva Bull Capital
Found at **Rampurva (Bihar)**, features a beautifully carved **zebu bull** on top of the pillar.
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Sarnath Lion Capital
The **official emblem of India**, found at **Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh)**. Features **four lions standing back to back, symbolizing Ashoka’s rule.**
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Sanchi Pillar
Located in **Sanchi (Madhya Pradesh)**. Features an **elaborate bell-shaped capital** with an **Ashokan inscription.**
34
Lauria Nandangarh Pillars
Located in **Bihar**. Two pillars found here contain **Pillar Edicts** detailing Ashoka’s commitment to **justice and Dhamma.**
35
Topra & Meerut Pillars
Originally erected at **Topra (Haryana)** and **Meerut (UP)**, later shifted to **Delhi by Firoz Shah Tughlaq.**
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Pillars in Afghanistan
Ashoka’s inscriptions in **Greek and Aramaic** were found on pillars in Kandahar, Afghanistan, showing his **diplomatic influence.**
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Materials & Structure of Pillars
Ashokan pillars were made of **single stone blocks**, mostly from **Chunar (Uttar Pradesh)**, and transported to various locations.
38
Artistic Features of Pillars
Pillars had beautifully carved **capitals (lion, bull, elephant, horse)** representing different aspects of Buddhism and royalty.
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Purpose of Ashokan Pillars
1. **Moral Guidance:** Spread of Dhamma | 2. **Political Messaging:** Royal authority | 3. **Public Welfare:** Laws & administrative policies.
40
**Ashoka’s Major Rock Edicts - Locations**
Ashoka’s **14 Major Rock Edicts** are found at various sites across **India, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan**. These locations were strategically chosen along **trade routes & administrative centers** to spread his message.
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**Girnar (Gujarat)**
Contains **all 14 Major Rock Edicts**. | Special Feature: Most **well-preserved edicts**, written in **Brahmi script**.
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**Kalsi (Uttarakhand)**
Only **Major Rock Edict site in North India**. | Special Feature: **Depicts an elephant**, symbolizing Ashoka’s Buddhist conversion.
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**Shahbazgarhi (Pakistan)**
Contains **all 14 Major Rock Edicts**. | Special Feature: Written in **Kharosthi script** (unlike most Brahmi inscriptions).
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**Mansehra (Pakistan)**
Contains **all 14 Major Rock Edicts**. | Special Feature: Another **Kharosthi script** inscription.
45
**Dhauli (Odisha)**
Contains **Major Rock Edicts I-X, XIV** (missing XI-XIII). | Special Feature: **Elephant carving** symbolizes Ashoka’s adoption of Buddhism.
46
**Jaugada (Odisha)**
Contains **Major Rock Edicts I-X, XIV**. | Special Feature: Similar to Dhauli, missing Edicts XI-XIII.
47
**Sopara (Maharashtra)**
Contains **Edicts VIII-IX, XI-XIV** (some are missing). | Special Feature: Important **port city** for trade in Ashoka’s time.
48
**Lauriya-Nandangarh (Bihar)**
Contains **Edicts I-VI**. | Special Feature: **One of the best-preserved pillar sites**.
49
**Lauriya-Araraj (Bihar)**
Contains **Edicts I-VI**. | Special Feature: Another important Ashokan site in Bihar.
50
**Erragudi (Andhra Pradesh)**
Contains **all 14 Major Rock Edicts**. | Special Feature: Key site for Ashoka’s influence in South India.
51
**Sannati (Karnataka)**
Contains **all 14 Major Rock Edicts**. | Special Feature: Largest number of Ashokan inscriptions in **South India**.
52
**Maski (Karnataka)**
Contains **Edict I** only. | Special Feature: First inscription **explicitly mentioning Ashoka’s name (Devanampiya Piyadasi)**.
53
**Udegolam (Karnataka)**
Contains **Major Rock Edicts**. | Special Feature: Associated with **Ashoka’s southern expansion**.
54
**Yerragudi (Andhra Pradesh)**
Contains **all 14 Major Rock Edicts**. | Special Feature: Another key location in the Deccan region.
55
**Brahmagiri (Karnataka)**
Contains **Major Rock Edict I**. | Special Feature: Associated with **Ashoka’s southernmost rule**.
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**Manimala (Kerala)**
Debated location; possible presence of **Ashokan inscriptions**.
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**Significance of Ashoka’s Major Rock Edict Locations**
Edicts were placed along **important trade routes, capitals, and religious centers** to spread **Dhamma policies** across his empire.
58
**Ashoka’s Minor Rock Edicts - Locations**
Ashoka’s **Minor Rock Edicts (MREs)** were found at various sites across **India, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan**. These inscriptions are more personal and focus on **Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism** and instructions for followers.
59
**Bairat (Rajasthan)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** Ashoka recommends studying **seven Buddhist texts**.
60
**Brahmagiri (Karnataka)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** One of the **southernmost Ashokan inscriptions**.
61
**Siddapur (Karnataka)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** Connected to the Brahmagiri inscription.
62
**Jatinga-Rameshwara (Karnataka)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** Part of Ashoka’s southern expansion.
63
**Maski (Karnataka)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** **First inscription to mention Ashoka’s name (Devanampiya Piyadasi).**
64
**Sahasram (Bihar)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** Found in the eastern region of the empire.
65
**Rupnath (Madhya Pradesh)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** Located in central India.
66
**Panguraria (Madhya Pradesh)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** Another important site in central India.
67
**Rajula Mandagiri (Andhra Pradesh)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I & Queen’s Edict**. | **Special Feature:** Mentions **Ashoka’s Queen Karuvaki and her charity work**.
68
**Gavimath (Karnataka)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** Another southern site.
69
**Yerragudi (Andhra Pradesh)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I & II**. | **Special Feature:** A key Ashokan site in South India.
70
**Devtek (Maharashtra)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** Shows Ashoka’s reach into Maharashtra.
71
**Nigali Sagar (Nepal)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict**. | **Special Feature:** Mentions **enlargement of a stupa dedicated to Buddha Kanakamuni.**
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**Lumbini (Nepal)**
Contains **Minor Rock Edict**. | **Special Feature:** **Ashoka visited this site and exempted Lumbini from taxes.**
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**Queens Edict (Rajula Mandagiri, Andhra Pradesh)**
Issued by **Queen Karuvaki**, mentions her **charitable donations.**
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**Bhabru Edict (Rajasthan)**
Contains **Ashoka’s personal declaration** of faith in Buddhism. | **Special Feature:** Encourages studying specific Buddhist texts.
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**Significance of Ashoka’s Minor Rock Edict Locations**
Placed in **remote areas**, near **religious sites, trade routes, and monastic centers** to promote **Buddhism and morality.**
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Front
Back
77
**Ashoka’s Pillar Edicts - Overview**
Ashoka’s **Pillar Edicts (PEs)** were inscribed on monolithic sandstone pillars, found at strategic locations across his empire. They focus on **Dhamma, administration, animal welfare, and religious harmony.**
78
**Delhi-Topra Pillar (Originally in Haryana)**
Contains **Pillar Edicts I-VI**. | **Special Feature:** Shifted to **Delhi by Firoz Shah Tughlaq** in the 14th century.
79
**Delhi-Meerut Pillar (Originally in Meerut, UP)**
Contains **Pillar Edicts I-VI**. | **Special Feature:** Also relocated to Delhi by **Firoz Shah Tughlaq**.
80
**Lauriya-Nandangarh (Bihar)**
Contains **Pillar Edicts I-VI**. | **Special Feature:** Best-preserved Ashokan pillar with **no damage**.
81
**Lauriya-Araraj (Bihar)**
Contains **Pillar Edicts I-VI**. | **Special Feature:** Another **well-preserved pillar** in Bihar.
82
**Rampurva (Bihar)**
Contains **Pillar Edicts I-VI**. | **Special Feature:** Features **the famous bull capital.**
83
**Sanchi (Madhya Pradesh)**
Contains **Pillar Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** Features **a beautifully carved bell-shaped capital.**
84
**Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh)**
Contains **Pillar Edict I**. | **Special Feature:** **The Lion Capital of Ashoka**, adopted as **India’s National Emblem.**
85
**Nigliva (Nepal)**
Contains **Pillar Edict**. | **Special Feature:** Mentions **enlargement of a stupa dedicated to Buddha Kanakamuni.**
86
**Lumbini (Nepal)**
Contains **Pillar Edict**. | **Special Feature:** Ashoka **visited Lumbini and exempted the village from taxes** to honor Buddha’s birthplace.
87
**Kandahar (Afghanistan)**
Contains **Greek & Aramaic inscriptions**. | **Special Feature:** Shows **Ashoka’s diplomatic reach** into the Hellenistic world.
88
**Topra (Haryana, Shifted to Delhi)**
Originally stood in **Haryana**, now in **Delhi**. | **Special Feature:** Largest known **Ashokan pillar.**
89
**Meerut (Uttar Pradesh, Shifted to Delhi)**
Originally stood in **Meerut**, now in **Delhi**. | **Special Feature:** Another pillar moved by **Firoz Shah Tughlaq.**
90
**Significance of Ashoka’s Pillar Edict Locations**
Placed near **important cities, trade routes, Buddhist sites, and administrative centers** to spread **Dhamma policies**.

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