Question

Which of the following statements is true regarding the Ashokan inscriptions on the Allahabad Pillar?

• A. They were discovered by Karuvaki and contain only standard Ashokan edicts.
• B. They played a key role in deciphering the Brahmi script and include unique edicts like the Schism Edict and the Queen’s Edict.
• C. They only describe the military conquests of Emperor Ashoka.
• D. They were written in Sanskrit and focus solely on Ashoka’s religious beliefs.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. They played a key role in deciphering the Brahmi script and include unique edicts like the Schism Edict and the Queen’s Edict.

The Ashokan inscriptions on the Allahabad Pillar played a crucial role in the decipherment of the Brahmi script by James Prinsep of the Asiatic Society. This breakthrough led to the rediscovery of Emperor Ashoka and a deeper understanding of the extent of his empire. Along with the six standard Ashokan edicts found on other pillars, the Allahabad Pillar also features the Schism Edict, which contains orders for Maha Matras (officials), and the Queen’s Edict, which records the charitable acts of Ashoka’s queen, Karuvaki.