Understanding Ashoka's Edicts and Names

Emperor Ashoka, a prominent ruler of the Mauryan dynasty, is well-known for his numerous edicts inscribed on pillars, rocks, and caves throughout his vast empire. These edicts served as a means to disseminate his Dhamma (moral code) and administrative policies to his subjects.

In most of his edicts, Ashoka refers to himself using titles such as 'Devanampiya' (Beloved of the Gods) and 'Piyadassi' (He who looks with kindness). However, in a few specific edicts, his personal name 'Ashoka' is mentioned.

Where Ashoka is Referred to as 'Asokaraja'

While his common titles were 'Devanampiya' and 'Piyadassi', the name 'Ashoka' appears in some edicts, particularly Minor Rock Edicts. The question asks where he refers to himself as 'Asokaraja'. Let's examine the options:

• Minor rock edict I at Maski in Karnataka: The Maski edict is significant because it is one of the first edicts discovered that mentions the name 'Ashoka'. The inscription here states "Devanampiyasa Asokasa" (of Devanampiya Ashoka).
• Minor rock edict I at Gurjara in Madhya Pradesh: This is another key edict where Ashoka's name appears. The inscription at Gurjara explicitly refers to him as "Devanampiya Piyadasi Asokaraja" (Devanampiya Piyadasi King Ashoka). This matches the specific reference 'Asokaraja' mentioned in the question.
• Minor rock edict II at Brahmagiri in Karnataka: The Brahmagiri edict, like many others, uses the titles 'Devanampiya' and 'Piyadassi' but does not include the personal name 'Ashoka' or the term 'Asokaraja'.
• Minor rock edict II at Yerragudi in Andhra Pradesh: The Yerragudi edicts primarily use the titles 'Devanampiya' and 'Piyadassi'. Ashoka's personal name is not found in the main text of Minor Rock Edict II at this location.

Comparing the options, the Gurjara Minor Rock Edict I is the one where Ashoka is specifically referred to using the term 'Asokaraja'.

Conclusion

Based on the inscriptions found at various sites, the Minor Rock Edict I located at Gurjara in Madhya Pradesh contains the reference to Ashoka as 'Asokaraja'. While the Maski edict also uses his name, the Gurjara edict uses the specific form 'Asokaraja'.