Question

To ensure peace and harmony in his empire, Ashoka adopted the policy of ............

• A. Conquest by Warfare
• B. Divine Right of Kings
• C. Dhamma
• D. Hindu Dharma

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Dhamma

Ashoka

• Ashoka was the most important among the kings of the Maurya dynasty with Magadha as the capital.

• Our national emblem is taken from the pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka at Saranath. The Dharma Chakra of Ashoka is kept at the centre of our national flag.

• Ashoka also built the stupa at Sanchi.

• To ensure peace and harmony in his empire, Ashoka adopted the policy of Dhamma (Prakrit form of Sanskrit word Dharma). It aimed at maintaining peace in the nation by promoting unity and tolerance among the people.

• The ideals of Dhamma are: Obey parents, Respect gurus, Denounce animal sacrifice, Express tolerance towards every religion, Show kindness towards fellow creatures

• Ashoka was inspired by Buddhism to proclaim Dhamma.

• Ashoka adopted Buddhism after the Kalinga war & he gave up wars.

• He played a significant role in propagating Buddhism in different parts of the world.

• Ashoka, conveyed his directions, decisions, and dhamma to his subjects through stone edicts. In the Dhamma edict of Ashoka, he is referred as 'Piyadassi or 'Devanampiya'