Summary
Chapter-7
Introduction: The iconic lion symbols on Indian currency have ancient origins, carved atop pillars in Sarnath during the Mauryan Empire. Ashoka, a prominent ruler, left a lasting legacy through inscriptions. His empire’s foundation by Chandragupta Maurya over 2300 years ago marked the emergence of a dynasty.
Empire vs. Kingdom: The Mauryan Empire, with cities like Pataliputra, Taxila, and Ujjain, differed from kingdoms due to its vast size and diverse regions. Emperors like Ashoka required more resources for larger territories and sizable armies.
Administration of the Empire: The empire’s administration varied across regions. Pataliputra, the capital, was directly controlled by the emperor. Provincial capitals like Taxila had local autonomy, maintaining customs. Roads and rivers were strategically controlled to collect taxes and tribute, sustaining the empire.
Megasthenes’ Descriptions: Megasthenes, a Greek ambassador, described grand royal processions and the fortified beauty of Pataliputra, showcasing the opulence of the Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta.
Ashoka’s Unique Rule: Ashoka, known for inscriptions in Prakrit using the Brahmi script, was a unique ruler. His transformative moment came after the Kalinga war, where witnessing immense suffering led him to renounce further conquests.
Ashoka’s Dhamma: Ashoka’s Dhamma was rooted in ethical teachings rather than religious rituals. He emphasized compassion, respect, and non-violence. His officials, the dhammamahamatta, propagated these principles, leading to social reforms.
Spread of Dhamma: Ashoka extended the reach of his Dhamma beyond his empire. Messengers were dispatched to lands like Syria, Egypt, and Greece. He built infrastructure, such as roads and rest houses, and sent his children to propagate Dhamma in Sri Lanka.
Ashoka’s Message: Ashoka’s message focused on ethical conduct, emphasizing kindness, respect for elders, and compassion for all creatures. He advocated understanding and respecting diverse religions, discouraging the criticism of others’ beliefs.
Conclusion: The Mauryan Empire, with its unique administrative structure and Ashoka’s transformative rule, left a profound impact on Indian history. The shift from conquest to ethical governance under Ashoka demonstrates the enduring legacy of the Mauryan Empire.