Question

Two statements labelled as Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are given below. Read them carefully and select the correct option :
Assertion (A) : Asoka’s dhamma emphasized generosity, kindness and respect for religious traditions.
Reason (R) : Asoka tried to hold his empire together with universally applicable principles.

• A. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
• B. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
• C. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
• D. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.

Hint:

Ashoka used the Prakrit language for his edicts to ensure the common people could understand his Dhamma. He is often regarded as the first ruler to give up warfare for a policy of 'Dhamma-vijaya' (conquest through righteousness).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:

• Emperor Ashoka’s 'Dhamma' was a set of ethical and social codes intended to foster harmony in a diverse society.
• It was not a religious doctrine but a unifying ideology for a multicultural empire.

Step 1: Validating the content of Dhamma
Ashoka's edicts explicitly mention that Dhamma included 'dana' (generosity), 'daya' (kindness), and 'shaucha' (purity).
He specifically advocated for the respect of all sects and religions, including Brahmanas and Shramanas.
Thus, Assertion (A) is factually correct.

Step 2: Connecting the policy to the political objective
The Mauryan Empire was vast and contained people of various faiths and ethnicities, leading to potential social friction.
Ashoka sought to minimize this conflict by promoting a common ethical framework that transcended individual religions.
By making these principles universal, he aimed to ensure the stability and integrity of the state.
Therefore, the need to unify the empire (Reason) directly led to the emphasis on inclusive values (Assertion).