Question

Which officials were specially appointed by Ashoka the Great to Propagate the principles of Dhamma ?

• A. Dhammapravartaka
• B. Dhammamahamatras
• C. Dhammaprajarakas
• D. Dhammastya

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Dhammamahamatras

Role of the Dhammamahamatras

• After the Kalinga War, Emperor Ashoka underwent a profound spiritual transformation and dedicated his reign to Dhamma (a set of edicts based on peace, social responsibility, and religious tolerance). To ensure these principles were practiced throughout his vast empire, he created a specialized cadre of officials.

• Ashoka introduced these officials in the 14th year of his reign. Their primary responsibilities included:

• Moral Policing: Ensuring that the citizens lived according to the principles of Dhamma.

• Welfare: Looking after the well-being of the elderly, the poor, and the infirm.

• Judicial Review: They had the power to review sentences and ensure that justice was tempered with mercy, sometimes even granting pardons.

• Universal Reach: They worked among people of all sects and religions, and even traveled to neighboring kingdoms to spread Ashoka's message.