Rock Edicts

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.