Given below are two statements : Statement I: 'Dhamma' is the Prakrit form of the Sanskrit word 'Dharma', meaning according to the context, the universal law or righteousness or, by Social Extension and Religious order as found in Hindu society. Statement II : The term 'Dhamma' was propogated by Ashoka for Buddhism when he adopted the same and started propogating it. In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Statement Analysis: Prakrit $\textit{Dhamma}$ vs Sanskrit $\textit{Dharma}$
This section provides a concise analysis of the two given statements regarding the terms $\textit{Dhamma}$ and $\textit{Dharma}$, focusing on their historical accuracy and context.
Statement I Accuracy: $\textit{Dhamma}$ and $\textit{Dharma}$ Origins
Statement I is correct. It accurately defines $\textit{Dhamma}$ as the Prakrit form of the Sanskrit word $\textit{Dharma}$. The statement correctly outlines the multifaceted meanings of $\textit{Dharma}$, including universal law, righteousness, and the societal or religious order, particularly relevant within the framework of ancient Indian societies.
- Linguistic Origin: $\textit{Dhamma}$ (Prakrit) derives from $\textit{Dharma}$ (Sanskrit).
- Semantic Range: Includes righteousness, duty, universal law, and social/religious order.
Statement II Accuracy: Ashoka's Propagation
Statement II is incorrect. While Emperor Ashoka did embrace Buddhism and subsequently promoted his concept of $\textit{Dhamma}$, this propagated $\textit{Dhamma}$ represented a broader ethical and moral code. This code, heavily influenced by Buddhist principles like non-violence and compassion, was intended for the governance and moral upliftment of his diverse empire. It was not merely the propagation of Buddhism itself, but a distinct socio-political and ethical ideology. Thus, the statement that he propagated $\textit{Dhamma}$ specifically 'for Buddhism' is a misrepresentation.
- Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism preceded his promotion of $\textit{Dhamma}$.
- Ashoka's $\textit{Dhamma}$ was an imperial ethical policy, not solely Buddhism.
- The policy drew inspiration from Buddhist teachings but aimed for wider application.
Final Conclusion
The analysis confirms that Statement I is factually correct regarding the etymology and meaning of the terms. Statement II is factually incorrect due to its narrow interpretation of Ashoka's $\textit{Dhamma}$ policy.
Result: Statement I is correct, Statement II is incorrect.
Important Questions from Mauryan Empire
- During the Mauryan period, the village headman in North India was known by ________.
The Mauryan empire was founded by Chandragupta Maurya in which of the following years?
The Mauryan empire was founded by Chandragupta Maurya in which of the following years?
- Which of the following administrative features was a key characteristic of the Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta Maurya?
Given below are two statements:
Statement I:
The Arthrashastra is a treatise on government and economics ascribed to Kautilya, the chief advisor of Chandragupta Maurya.
Statement II:
By the third century B.C. the economy of North India was predominantly agrarian. Land revenue had become the accepted source of income for the government. Kautilya refers at length to methods of tax collection and related problems. Modifications in land tax appeared to be the direct concern of the king.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:
