Q14
History of IndiaMauryan Empire
The Maurya Emperor who propounded the concept of “Dhamma” had been
- a.Chandragupta
- b.Bindusara
- c.Ashoka
- d.None of the above
Answer: (C) Ashoka
Ashoka propounded Dhamma, a moral code of tolerance, non-violence and respect for elders, after the Kalinga war (c. 261 BC), and spread it through his rock and pillar edicts and Dhamma Mahamatras. Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the dynasty, is said to have become a Jain and died at Shravanabelagola. Bindusara, who bore the title Amitraghata ('slayer of foes'), favoured the Ajivika sect. Since Ashoka is listed, 'None of the above' is wrong.