Question

Which of the following is emphasized in Major Pillar Edict VII of the Ashoka inscriptions on the Allahabad Pillar?

• A. Ashoka’s military victories and territorial expansion.
• B. The promotion of Dhamma and the idea that all religious sects seek self-control and mental purity.
• C. The creation of a centralized tax system in the Maurya Empire.
• D. Ashoka’s ban on animal sacrifice and ritualistic practices.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The promotion of Dhamma and the idea that all religious sects seek self-control and mental purity.

The Allahabad Pillar, also known as the Ashoka Stambha, bears inscriptions from three different rulers: Ashoka Maurya, Samudragupta, and Jahangir. The Ashokan edicts inscribed on the pillar include: Major Pillar Edict I – Outlines Ashoka’s principle of protecting his people. Major Pillar Edict II – Defines Dhamma as refraining from sin, cultivating virtues such as compassion, generosity, truthfulness, and purity. Major Pillar Edict III – Condemns sins like harshness, cruelty, anger, and pride. Major Pillar Edict IV – Discusses the duties of Rajukas (officials responsible for governance and justice). Major Pillar Edict V – Lists animals and birds that must not be killed on certain days and others that should never be killed. Also mentions Ashoka’s release of 25 prisoners. Major Pillar Edict VI – Explains Ashoka’s Dhamma policy. Major Pillar Edict VII – Highlights Ashoka’s efforts to promote Dhamma and emphasizes that all religious sects seek self-control and mental purity.