Identify the incorrect statement regarding Asoka’s “Dhamma”?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Respect for only one’s own religion and traditions
Asoka was the first ruler to inscribe his messages on rocks and polished pillars, and he used these inscriptions to proclaim what he understood to be dhamma. It included respect towards elders, generosity towards Brahmanas and those who renounced worldly life, treating slaves and servants kindly, and respect for religions and traditions other than one’s own. So Option (2), which speaks of respect for only one’s own religion, is the opposite of Asoka’s message.
“Other than one’s own” became “only one’s own”, and Asoka’s tolerance turned into its opposite. Small words decide answers; give each option a full reading.
NCERT (2025-26): “3.1 Finding out about the Mauryas … Asoka was the first ruler who inscribed his messages to his subjects and officials on stone surfaces – natural rocks as well as polished pillars. He used the inscriptions to proclaim what he understood to be dhamma. This included respect towards elders, generosity towards Brahmanas and those who renounced worldly life, treating slaves and servants kindly, and respect for religions and traditions other than one’s own.…” |