Page 60 - SST Class 06
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a result of war), and this pains Beloved-of-the- who died during the conquest of Kalinga now
Gods. pains Beloved-of-the-Gods, Now Beloved-of-the-
Therefore, the killing, death or deportation of a Gods thinks that even those who do wrong
hundredth or even a thousandth part of those should be forgiven where forgiveness is possible.
EDICTS Edict 2
Edicts of Ashoka Everywhere within Ashoka’s domain and among
Ashoka began to issue one of the most famous the people beyond the borders, the Cholas, the
edicts in the history of governance and instructed Pandyas, etc., he made provision for two medical
his officials to carve them on rocks and pillars, in treatment of humans and animals.
line with the local dialects and in a very simple Wherever medical herbs suitable for humans or
fashion. animals were not available, he had them
imported and grown. Along roads, he had wells
dug and trees planted for the benefit of humans
and animals.
Edict 3
Ashoka says that twelve years after his corona-
tion, he ordered that everywhere in his domain
the officials shall go on inspection tours every five
years for the purpose of Dhamma instruction and
also to conduct other business.
He said that respect for mother and father is
good, generosity to friends, acquaintances,
relatives, Brahmans and ascetics is good, not
killing living beings is good, moderation in
Ashoka’s First rock Inscription at Girnar spending and moderation in saving is good.
Edict 4
In the rock edicts, Ashoka talks about religious
freedom and religious tolerance, he instructs his In the past, for many hundreds of years, killing or
officials to help the poor and the elderly, estab- harming living beings and improper behavior
lishes medical facilities for humans and animals, had increased. But, now due to Ashoka’s
commands obedience to parents, respect for Dhamma practice restraint in the killing and
elders, generosity for all priests and ascetic orders harming of living beings have increased. These
no matter their creed, orders fruit and shade trees and many other kinds of Dhamma practice have
to be planted and also wells to be dug along the been encouraged by Ashoka, and he will con-
roads so travellers can benefit from them. tinue to promote Dhamma. And the sons, grand-
sons and great-grandsons of Ashoka, too, will
Edict 1
continue to promote Dhamma.
No living beings are to be slaughtered or offered
This edict was written so that it may please
in sacrifice. Nor should festivals be held, for
Asoka’s successors to devote themselves to
Ashoka objected to festivals, although there were
promoting these things and not allow them to
some festivals that Ashoka did approve of.
decline.
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