The Rock Edicts is a document in chapter 3, which talks
about the rules and governing practices in the Classical Era. Ashoka is a
ruler/emperor of the Mauryan dynasty in India. Ashoka was the typical emperor
of that time and was ruthless and power hungry. After a bloody battle he “woke
up” and realized there was more to his governing practices. He converted to
Buddhism and focused on making rules and practices to provide a more peaceful
way of life for his people. He placed these rules on rocks and pillars throughout
his empire so that everyone would be reminded of the peaceful ways that should
be practiced.
These rules are similar to the Law Code of Hammurabi in the
document section of chapter 2. Both of
these documents show that the goal of these rulers was to bring righteousness
to the land. This shows that in the beginnings of human existence there was a
continuous strive to provide a peaceful way of life. Ashoka’s conversion to
Buddhism shows in some of his views, for example: “ All religions should reside
everywhere for all desire self control and purity of heart”. Buddhists believe
you can follow any religion and reach the after life. Ashoka’s rule about religion
not only follows his beliefs; it also preaches acceptance of other people’s beliefs,
which would help him reach his goals of peacefulness in his empire.
