Remarks on the Fourth Rock Edict of Asoka

Summary

The fourth Rock Edict of Ashoka focuses on promoting *ahimsa* (non-violence) and ethical conduct, emphasizing the decline of Buddhist principles before Ashoka’s reforms. The author argues that the phrase "for many centuries" in the edict refers not to a literal timeline but to a period of moral decay following the Buddha’s death, which Ashoka reversed through his policies. The expression *atikrantam amteram* (in times past) is linked to the resurgence of Buddhist doctrine under Ashoka, paralleling the Rummindei inscription’s reference to his awareness of the Buddha’s birthplace. The analysis interprets *bherighoso aho dharmaghosa* as the "sound of drums" heralding the proclamation of Buddhist teachings, akin to Jataka tales where drums announce significant events. This aligns with Ashoka’s emphasis on *ahimsa* and moral behavior for laypeople. The edict critiques past rulers for failing to uphold these values, contrasting them with Ashoka’s efforts to revive *dhamma*. Scholarly debates are noted, including critiques of earlier interpretations of *bherighoso* and parallels with Jataka narratives where drum sounds signal divine or royal pronouncements. The author concludes that the edict’s core message underscores Ashoka’s role in revitalizing Buddhism through law and moral instruction, supported by references to Hultsch’s inscriptions and Bhandarkar’s insights.