Question

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the policy of Dhamma practiced by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka:

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

• A. 1 and 2 only
• B. 1 and 3 only
• C. 2 only
• D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer 1

The correct option is B 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Ashoka advised, through his edicts, that all his subjects should serve their parents, revere teachers, and practice ahimsa and truthfulness.

Statement 2 is incorrect: Ashoka’s dhamma did not involve worship of a God, or performance of a sacrifice. Ashoka established the idea of paternal kinship. It was not purely religious in nature.

Statement 3 is correct: Ashoka advocated tolerance towards all religions.

Important features of the policy:

• He regarded all his subjects as his children and believed it to be the king’s duty to look after the welfare of his subjects.
• He asked everyone to avoid animal slaughter and sacrifice.
• He expounded humane treatment of animals, servants, and prisoners.
• He sought conquest through Dhamma and not war.
• He sent missions abroad to spread the word of the Buddha. Notably, he sent his son Mahinda and daughter Sanghamitra to Sri Lanka.