Ashoka, regarded as one of the greatest rulers in ancient history, introduced the policy of Dhamma, which has intrigued historians and scholars for centuries.

•  The term “Dhamma” is derived from the Prakrit form of the Sanskrit word “Dharma.”
•  It has been interpreted as piety, righteousness, or moral living. 
• To truly understand Ashoka’s Dhamma, one must refer to his inscriptions spread across his empire, where he outlined its principles to guide his subjects and governance. Historians such as Kern have referred to Ashoka as “a monk in a king’s garb.”

What is Ashoka’s Policy of Dhamma?

• Not a Religious Doctrine: Dhamma was neither a specific religious faith nor a rigid royal policy. Instead, it represented general principles of social behavior.
• Synthesis of Norms: It synthesized various norms and practices prevalent during Ashoka’s reign, ensuring inclusivity.
• Purpose: The primary aim of Dhamma was to foster peace, harmony, and the welfare of the empire.

Need for Ashoka’s Policy of Dhamma

• Resolving Societal Tensions:
  • Ashoka aimed to address religious, social, and economic conflicts within his diverse empire.
  • The Mauryan Empire included various cultures, beliefs, and social structures. The northern regions had Hellenistic influences, while the south experienced the rise of Tamil culture.
• Unified Social Norms:
  • Instead of using force to unify the diverse empire, Ashoka promoted universal principles of Dhamma that transcended religious and cultural differences.
• Religious and Social Harmony:
  • The rise of heterodox sects such as Buddhism, Jainism, and Ajivikas created tensions with Brahmanical dominance. Dhamma sought to promote mutual trust and harmony.
• Cohesion and Economic Stability:
  • Many regions of the empire remained untouched by Brahmanical or heterodox traditions. Dhamma provided a common framework for societal cohesion.
  • The growing economic influence of commercial classes, who often embraced Buddhism due to its egalitarian principles, necessitated their inclusion in the empire’s governance.
• Centralized Monarchy:
  • The Mauryan system demanded a sense of unity among its people. Dhamma’s ethical principles aimed to foster this feeling of oneness.

Key Principles of Ashoka’s Dhamma Policy of Dhamma

• Dhamma Mahamattas:
  • Special officers, known as Dhamma Mahamattas, were appointed to implement and propagate the principles of Dhamma across society.
• Toleration and Respect:
  • Dhamma emphasized tolerance towards different religious beliefs and practices.
  • Respect for elders and generosity towards the needy, Brahmanas, and Sramanas were encouraged.
• Non-Violence (Ahimsa):
  • Non-violence was central to Dhamma and extended to renouncing war and minimizing animal sacrifices.
• Welfare Measures:
  • Initiatives like planting trees, digging wells, and establishing rest houses were part of Dhamma to improve the quality of life for citizens.
• Criticism of Rituals:
  • Ashoka discouraged meaningless ceremonies and sacrifices, promoting a practical approach to religion and life.

Implementation and Outreach of Ashoka’s Policy of Dhamma

• Propagation:
  • Ashoka claimed to have sent Dhamma missions to places like Sri Lanka and the Hellenistic kingdoms. 
  • While their success remains debated, this reflects his intent to spread the principles widely.
• Infrastructure Development:
  • Facilities for medical treatment for humans and animals were established.
  • Shady groves, wells, fruit orchards, and rest houses were created for public welfare.

Evaluation of Ashoka’s Policy of Dhamma

• Addressing Contemporary Needs:
  • According to historian Romila Thapar, Dhamma was not only a reflection of Ashoka’s humanitarian values but also a response to the socio-political complexities of his time.
  • Respect for Brahmanas and Sramanas was a key element, showcasing its non-partisan nature.
• Balancing Non-Violence and Statecraft:
  • While Ashoka advocated non-violence, he maintained the state’s authority. For instance, he warned forest tribes of potential coercion if they disrupted peace.
• Tolerance and Inclusivity:
  • Rock Edicts reveal Ashoka’s emphasis on promoting tolerance and respect for all religious sects.
• Charity and Welfare:
  • Ashoka’s welfare initiatives marked a departure from the Arthashastra’s pragmatic approach, which prioritized state revenue over public expenditure.

Limitations of Ashoka’s Policy of Dhamma

• Social Tensions Persisted:
  • Revolts like those in Taxila, which had occurred during Bindusara’s reign, re-emerged, indicating that Dhamma could not entirely eliminate unrest.
• Resentment Against Officials:
  • Over time, the Dhamma Mahamattas accrued significant powers, leading to interference in politics and public life, which caused discontent.
• Decline After Ashoka:
  • Successors of Ashoka did not continue the policy of Dhamma. Following his death in 232 BCE, many vassals declared independence, highlighting the policy’s limited long-term impact.

Legacy of Ashoka’s Policy of Dhamma

• Consolidation of the Empire:
  • While its influence waned after Ashoka, the policy of Dhamma played a crucial role in consolidating his empire during his reign.
• Ethical and Humanitarian Vision:
  • Ashoka’s Dhamma sought to transcend parochial traditions by promoting ethical and humane principles.
• Transformation of Society:
  • The Kandahar inscription mentions how hunters and fishermen adopted settled agricultural lives, reflecting the transformative impact of Dhamma.