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Q20 (UPPCS/2024) History & Culture › Ancient India

Consider the following statements with respect to Ashoka :
1. The definition of Dhamma given by Ashoka is taken from "Rahulovada-sutta".
2. In the 14th year of his coronation, Ashoka appointed a new type of staff, called Dhamma-mahamatras.
Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

Result
Your answer: —  Â·  Correct: A

Explanation

Both statements are correct based on historical records and Ashokan edicts:

  • Statement 1: Ashoka's definition of Dhamma, as articulated in the Second Pillar Edict (which emphasizes apasinave or few sins, bahu kayane or many virtues, compassion, and purity), is widely recognized by historians like D.R. Bhandarkar as being derived from the Rahulovada Sutta (specifically the Chula-Rahulovada Sutta of the Majjhima Nikaya). In the Bhabru Rock Edict, Ashoka specifically recommends this sutta for study.
  • Statement 2: According to Major Rock Edict V, Ashoka created the post of Dhamma-mahamatras for the first time thirteen years after his coronation (i.e., in his 14th regnal year). These officials were tasked with spreading Dhamma and ensuring the welfare of people across all religious sects.
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SIMILAR QUESTIONS

CGS · 2026 · Q44 Relevance score: 5.22

Consider the following statements about Ashoka's Dhamma :
I. The theme of Ahimsa is an important aspect of Ashoka's Dhamma.
II. The ceremony of Dhamma is in proper courtesy to slaves and servants.
III. Dhamma consisted of the promotion of Buddhism.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

CDS-I · 2016 · Q113 Relevance score: 4.83

Consider the following statements : 1. The inscriptions on the pillar at Rummindei give vivid details of Ashoka’s Dhamma 2. The Nigalisagar inscription records the fact of Ashoka having visited the Konagamana stupa Which of the statements given above is / are correct ?

NDA-I · 2015 · Q83 Relevance score: 4.53

Consider the following statements about Ashokan rock edicts : 1. Major Rock Edict XIII records Ashoka’s remorse at the sufferings caused by his Kalinga campaign. 2. Major Rock Edict X records Ashoka’s visit to Lumbini. 3. Major Rock Edict XII refers to Dhamma Mahamattas as a new category of officers instituted by Ashoka. 4. Major Rock Edict XII speaks about showing tolerance towards all sects. Which of the statements given above are correct ?

CDS-I · 2022 · Q83 Relevance score: 4.25

Consider the following statements about Ashoka’s faith in Buddhism : 1. Rummindei Pillar Inscription and Nigali Sagar Pillar Inscription provide clear evidence of Ashoka’s faith in Buddhism. 2. Minor Rock Edict-I gives evidence of a sudden change in Ashoka’s faith in Buddhism. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

CDS-II · 2019 · Q79 Relevance score: 3.83

Consider the following state- ments : I. According to Mahavamsa, Ashoka turned to the Buddha's dhamma when his nephew Nigrodha preached the doctrine to him. 2. Dlayavadana ascribes Ashoka being drawn to the Buddha's teaching to the influence of Samudra, a merchant-turned monk. 3. Dipavamsa speaks of Samudra, the 12-year-old son of a merchant. as the key figure in Ashoka's coming under the Influence of the Buddhist dhamma. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?