Inscriptions of Ashoka (Rock Edicts): Overview Inscriptions of Ashoka (Rock Edicts) refer to a set of fourteen edicts (inscriptions) inscribed on rocks and pillar by the Indian King Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. These edicts are considered the earliest surviving relic of Indian politics and culture, and an important example of Indian epigraphy. These edicts were inscribed all across India in various languages and scripts, including Prakrit, Sanskrit, Greek and Aramaic. They contain moral and political messages from one of the most powerful kings of ancient India, expressing his views on various topics, such as morality, Dharma, peace and non-violence. Inscriptions of Ashoka (Rock Edicts): Prominent Features The Edicts of Ashoka are particularly known for their religious, moral, and ethical content. These Edicts contain the principles of the Dharma and Ashoka’s commitment to its principles. He encourages tolerance and religious liberty, speaks of benevolence and compassion, and supports Vegetarianism and religious abstention from animal slaughter. Ashoka also talks about making amends for past war-time atrocities through the expression of sorrow and regret. Not only does he stress his respect for all religions, but he also proposes to replace hostility and anxiety with friendship and goodwill. Inscription of Ashoka (Rock Edicts): History The Inscriptions of Ashoka, which are widely heralded as the earliest surviving AIl of Indian politics and culture, were discovered in northern India in 1837 by James Princep. Before this discovery, these inscriptions were completely unknown and their existence had eluded historians and scholars. Though these inscriptions are found in various states across India, the edict in the most intact condition is the one located in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh. The edict contains 58 schist tablets inscribed with Ashoka’s edicts in Brahmi Script and Prakrit language. Inscriptions of Ashoka (Rock Edicts): Interesting facts -The fourteen edicts of Ashoka were inscribed at eight different places across India. -The Edicts have also been found inscribed in Aramaic and Greek, alongside the more commonly seen inscriptions in Prakrit and Sanskrit. -These edicts prohibit the taking of life for any reason, such as in hunting or slaughtering. -The inscriptions are carved on rocks and pillars and are one of the oldest and most important surviving examples of Indian epigraphy. -The most complete inscription is located in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh and consists of 58 schist tablets inscribed in Brahmi Script.