Rock and Pillar Edicts of Asoka

Questions for Further Study

• 1.: Asoka is considered a major figure in Indian history and, in fact, in the history of the world. Why is he regarded in this light? What was his impact on history?
• 2.: In the modern world, many Westerners have become interested in Eastern religions such as Buddhism (and Hinduism). Why do you believe this is so, and what can Westerners learn about such religious beliefs from Asoka and his Rock and Pillar edicts?
• 3.: What impact did the Kalinga War have on Asoka? How did the war give rise to the beliefs he expressed in the edicts?
• 4.: Many of the precepts expressed in the edicts would be taken for granted today. Why would Asoka's beliefs have been considered almost revolutionary at the time? Why, for example, would his call for “uniformity in law and uniformity in sentencing” have been something innovative?
• 5.: Some historians have argued that the Rock and Pillar edicts are the world's first document in the history of religious freedom. Why would they hold such a belief?