Ashoka's Dhamma and Inscriptions Practice Questions
14 free Ashoka's Dhamma and Inscriptions practice questions for the Indian History. Tap an option to answer — you get instant feedback, the correct answer, and a detailed explanation for every question.
Which of the following Rock Edicts of Ashoka provides a detailed description of the Kalinga War and his subsequent remorse?
- A Major Rock Edict VIII
- B Major Rock Edict XII
- C Major Rock Edict XIII
- D Major Rock Edict XIV
Correct answer: Major Rock Edict XIII
Major Rock Edict XIII is the most famous inscription as it recounts the horrors of the Kalinga War and explains Ashoka's transition from Bherighosha to Dhammaghosha. It also mentions contemporary Greek kings, helping historians date Ashoka's reign.
In his inscriptions, Ashoka frequently refers to himself by which title?
- A Maharajadhiraja Samrat
- B Samrat Chakravartin
- C Vikramaditya
- D Devanampiya Piyadasi
Correct answer: Devanampiya Piyadasi
Ashoka used the titles 'Devanampiya' (Beloved of the Gods) and 'Piyadasi' (One who looks with kindness) in the majority of his inscriptions. His actual name 'Ashoka' was only found in a few Minor Rock Edicts like Maski and Gujarra.
What was the primary language used in the majority of Ashoka's inscriptions found in the Indian subcontinent?
- A Sanskrit
- B Pali
- C Prakrit
- D Magadhi
Correct answer: Prakrit
Ashoka chose Prakrit, the common vernacular of the time, to ensure his message reached the masses. While the script varied (Brahmi or Kharosthi), the language remained predominantly Prakrit.
Which script was used for Ashokan inscriptions found in the North-Western part of the Indian subcontinent (e.g., Manshera and Shahbazgarhi)?
- A Brahmi
- B Greek
- C Old Persian
- D Kharosthi
Correct answer: Kharosthi
In the North-West, the Kharosthi script was employed, which is written from right to left. This shows Ashoka's adaptability in using regional scripts to communicate his Dhamma.
The Ashokan Pillar at Sarnath, which features the Lion Capital, was built to commemorate which event in the Buddha's life?
- A Birth
- B Enlightenment
- C First Sermon
- D Mahaparinirvana
Correct answer: First Sermon
The Sarnath Pillar marks the site of the Buddha's first sermon, also known as the Dharmachakrapravartana. The four lions represent the spreading of the Dhamma in four directions.
Which specific official was appointed by Ashoka to spread and enforce his moral and ethical teachings?
- A Dhamma Mahamattas
- B Vyavaharika Mahamattas
- C Ithijhakha Mahamattas
- D Pradeshikas
Correct answer: Dhamma Mahamattas
In his 14th year of reign, Ashoka created the post of Dhamma Mahamattas. Their primary duty was to promote harmony, look after the welfare of the people, and spread the message of Dhamma across all sects.
Ashoka's Dhamma was essentially:
- A A completely new branch of Buddhism
- B A rigid set of religious dogmas and rituals
- C A code of social and ethical conduct
- D A strict military law for the whole empire
Correct answer: A code of social and ethical conduct
Ashoka's Dhamma was not a formal religion but a moral code designed to facilitate social harmony and civic responsibility. It emphasized virtues like non-violence, tolerance, and respect for elders.
In which Minor Rock Edict does Ashoka's name actually appear, confirming his identity as Devanampiya Piyadasi?
- A Maski, Karnataka
- B Bhabru, Rajasthan
- C Rummindei, Nepal
- D Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh
Correct answer: Maski, Karnataka
The Maski edict in Karnataka was the first to be discovered where the name 'Ashoka' is used alongside 'Devanampiya'. This discovery by C. Beadon in 1915 was crucial for identifying the author of the edicts.
The Rummindei Pillar Inscription is significant because it marks the birthplace of Gautama Buddha. Where is it located?
- A Sarnath
- B Bodh Gaya
- C Lumbini
- D Kushinagar
Correct answer: Lumbini
The Rummindei (or Lumbini) Pillar was erected by Ashoka to commemorate his visit to the Buddha's birthplace. It also records that he reduced the land revenue (Bhaga) and abolished the religious tax (Bali) for the village.
Which Major Rock Edict advocates for religious tolerance and appeals for 'restraint of speech' regarding other sects?
- A Edict VII
- B Edict IX
- C Edict V
- D Edict XII
Correct answer: Edict XII
Major Rock Edict XII is a landmark document in the history of secularism. It urges people to honor other sects and refrain from praising one's own sect while disparaging others.
What does the term 'Bherighosha' refer to in the context of Ashoka's reign?
- A The sound of the victory drum
- B The chanting of Buddhist hymns
- C The call for tax collection
- D The sound of the Dhamma
Correct answer: The sound of the victory drum
Bherighosha refers to the drum used to signal military conquest and war. Ashoka famously declared that Bherighosha would be replaced by 'Dhammaghosha' (the sound of Dhamma) after his conversion.
Which Ashokan inscription is unique for being written in two languages—Greek and Aramaic?
- A Kandahar Inscription
- B The Seventh Pillar Edict
- C The First Minor Rock Edict
- D Allahabad Pillar
Correct answer: Kandahar Inscription
The Kandahar Bilingual Rock Inscription was found in Afghanistan and features both Greek and Aramaic. This indicates that Ashoka's message was intended for the Greek and Aramaic-speaking populations of his frontier provinces.
Who was the first scholar to successfully decipher the Brahmi script of the Ashokan edicts in 1837?
- A James Prinsep
- B Alexander Cunningham
- C William Jones
- D John Marshall
Correct answer: James Prinsep
James Prinsep, an officer at the Calcutta Mint, deciphered the Brahmi script. This breakthrough allowed historians to read the edicts and reconstruct the history of the Mauryan Empire.
According to the edicts, what was Ashoka’s policy regarding animal slaughter and animal sacrifices?
- A Gradual reduction and prohibition of certain sacrifices
- B A total and immediate ban on all animal killing
- C No real change from the policies of previous dynasties
- D Animals could only be killed for approved religious rituals
Correct answer: Gradual reduction and prohibition of certain sacrifices
Major Rock Edict I prohibits animal sacrifice and lists specific animals that were no longer to be killed for the royal kitchen. This reflects the principle of 'Ahimsa' (non-violence) in his Dhamma.