Previous Year Question
Consider the following statements with respect to Ashoka:
The definition of Dhamma given by Ashoka is taken from “Rahulovada-sutta”.
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?
Both 1 and 2
Neither 1 nor 2
Only 1
Only 2
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Statement 1 is treated as correct. The Rahulovada-sutta is concerned with the ethical instructions given by the Buddha to Rahula. It particularly emphasizes truthfulness, purity of conduct, and reflection on the moral consequences of an action before and after performing it.
In Ashoka's Bhabru or Bairat Edict, the seven Buddhist teachings that he recommends monks, nuns and lay followers to hear and reflect upon repeatedly include Laghulovada/Rahulovada. Therefore, a clear relationship has traditionally been drawn between Ashoka's ethical conception of Dhamma and the moral teaching of the Rahulovada-sutta.
However, an important historical qualification is necessary. Ashoka's inscriptions themselves do not literally state that “my definition of Dhamma was taken from the Rahulovada-sutta.” In his pillar edicts, Ashoka explains Dhamma through qualities such as compassion, liberality, truthfulness, purity, few sins and many good deeds. Therefore, Statement 1 is more precisely understood as a traditional interpretation accepted by UPPSC.
Statement 2 is correct. Major Rock Edict V states that Dhamma-mahamatras had not existed earlier and that Ashoka created these offices after thirteen years had elapsed following his coronation. The year following the completion of thirteen years is the 14th year.
The duties of the Dhamma-mahamatras were not confined merely to religious propagation. They worked for the establishment and growth of Dhamma among different sects, for the welfare of the people, for assistance to the aged and helpless, and in certain circumstances for the welfare and release of prisoners.