Ashoka appointed religious officials, known as:
Dhamma-mahamatta
Understanding Ashoka's Administration: Dhamma-mahamattas
The question asks about the specific religious officials appointed by Emperor Ashoka. Ashoka, a prominent ruler of the Mauryan dynasty, is well-known for his efforts to propagate Dhamma, which was his code of conduct based on social responsibility and Buddhist principles, rather than just a religion.
To effectively spread his message of Dhamma and ensure its implementation across his vast empire, Ashoka created a new class of officials. These officials were tasked with several important duties related to Dhamma.
Role of Ashoka's Religious Officials
Ashoka appointed these officials in the 14th year of his reign. Their primary responsibilities included:
- Propagating Dhamma among various sections of society.
- Working for the welfare of different religious sects and ensuring harmony among them.
- Looking after the welfare of prisoners and assisting in their release.
- Supervising the application of Dhamma principles in daily life and administration.
- Addressing grievances related to Dhamma.
These officials acted as the eyes and ears of Ashoka, ensuring that his Dhamma policy was being followed and understood by the people.
Identifying the Correct Officials
Let's look at the options provided:
| Option | Analysis |
|---|---|
| 1. Dhamma-mahamatta | This term directly translates to 'officials of Dhamma' or 'superintendents of Dhamma'. Historical sources, particularly Ashoka's edicts, confirm the appointment of officials with this specific designation for the purpose of Dhamma propagation and welfare activities. |
| 2. Dhammadhiraja | This term means 'King of Dhamma'. This is a title referring to a ruler who upholds Dhamma, not an appointed official class. |
| 3. Dhammadhikari | This term means 'officer of Dhamma' or 'authority of Dhamma'. While similar, 'Dhamma-mahamatta' is the specific term found in Ashoka's edicts for the officials he appointed. |
| 4. Dhammadhyaksha | This term means 'supervisor of Dhamma' or 'head of Dhamma department'. Again, 'Dhamma-mahamatta' is the historically accurate term for Ashoka's specially appointed officials. |
Based on the historical evidence from Ashoka's edicts, the officials specifically appointed to spread Dhamma and look after the welfare of people according to Dhamma principles were known as Dhamma-mahamattas.
Conclusion on Ashoka's Officials
Therefore, the religious officials appointed by Ashoka to oversee and promote his Dhamma were called Dhamma-mahamattas.
Revision Table: Key Ashoka Terms
| Term | Meaning/Role in Ashoka's Reign |
|---|---|
| Dhamma | Ashoka's code of conduct, emphasizing social responsibility, morality, and welfare. |
| Dhamma-mahamatta | Special officials appointed by Ashoka to spread and implement Dhamma. |
| Edicts | Inscriptions on pillars and rocks where Ashoka proclaimed his Dhamma and administrative policies. |
Additional Information on Ashoka's Dhamma
Ashoka's Dhamma was not a new religion, but rather a set of ethical principles derived from various philosophies, including Buddhism, with a focus on practical application in daily life and state administration. It emphasized respect for elders, tolerance towards all religious sects, kindness to servants and prisoners, and non-violence.
The appointment of Dhamma-mahamattas shows Ashoka's commitment to actively governing based on these principles and ensuring they reached even the remotest parts of his empire. They played a crucial role in the social and moral upliftment of the people as envisioned by the emperor.
Important Questions from Mauryan Empire
Chandragupta Maurya established the Mauryan Empire by defeating the
Which of the following options gives the correct chronological order of rulers of the Mauryan Empire?
Who founded the Maurya dynasty after defeating Dhana Nanda?
Which of the following statements about Emperor Ashoka is FALSE?
Which among the following comes first in the chronological order?
