- Statement I: 'Dhamma' is indeed the Prakrit form of the Sanskrit word 'Dharma'. While 'Dharma' has multiple meanings, including righteousness, duty, cosmic order, or religious/social law, Ashoka's Dhamma was a specific concept drawing on ethical principles. - Statement II: Ashoka's Dhamma was not solely or specifically Buddhism, nor was it promoted by Ashoka exclusively for propagating Buddhism. After the Kalinga War, Ashoka became a follower of Buddhism, but his Dhamma was a broader ethical and moral code intended for the welfare and harmony of all his subjects, regardless of their religious affiliations (which included Brahmanism, Jainism, Ajivikas, etc.). His edicts emphasized tolerance, non-violence (ahimsa), respect for elders, generosity, truthfulness, and welfare activities for both humans and animals. It was a socio-ethical framework promoting righteous conduct and mutual respect among diverse communities.
Given below are two statements : Statement I : 'Dhamma' is the Prakrit form of the Sanskrit word 'Dharma', meaning according to the context, the universal law or righteousness or, by Social Extension and Religious order as found in Hindu society. Statement II : The term 'Dhamma' was propogated by Ashoka for Buddhism when he adopted the same and started propogating it. In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Asked in HAS Prelims 2022 · Topic: Maurya Empire (Ashoka the Great: Kalinga War and Dhamma)
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Answer: C. Statement I is correct but Statement II is incor‐ rect.
More Ancient History of India questions
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