"Edicts of Asoka"

Paper Summary:

This paper argues that nothing in the "Edicts of Asoka" suggest that Asoka was not a follower of Buddha, but much in those inscriptions point to his incorporation of concepts from both the Arthasastra and the Laws of Manu. It explains that the Asokan world was still regarded as a single unit organized in accordance with cosmic principle that had held the minds and hearts of men from the time of the Aryan incursions. An accurate appraisal of Asoka's religious concepts are considered within the context of this paper. It discusses how the concept of Dhamma was opposed to rule by force and how this provides insight into the importance of the Dhamasastras and the Arthasastras in the formation of Indian political thought. It shows that this, in turn, gives a new perspective to the Buddhist legends of Asoka. It states that consideration of the Edicts from the viewpoint of administration should not be intended to disparage the importance of Asoka's promotion of Buddhism, but simply to suggest that it was tempered by non-religious motives.

From the Paper:

"The edicts of Asoka show a view of government similar to that of the Arthasastra; and the Laws of Manu. Looking at the edicts from this perspective it is clear that Asoka utilized Buddhism to effect an administration very similar to that envisioned by Kautillya and Manu. Asoka shows concern for practical administration of government with a view toward establishing an imperial rule that would be continued by future generations. Much like the Arthasastra, the edicts assume monarchy to be the normal form of government and that the king as sole ruler of the state should be concerned with maintenance of peace within the state and favorable relations with surrounding states."

More papers on "Edicts of Asoka":

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• Essay # 37080 : "King Asoka."

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