Inscriptional Excursions in Respect of Asoka Edicts
By B. M. Barua
Summary
This extensive article offers a critical review of the epigraphic corpus attributed to Emperor Aśoka. The author begins by recounting the discovery and decipherment of Aśokan inscriptions and summarises earlier readings by James Prinsep and D. R. Bhandarkar. He then re‑examines the geographical distribution of the rock edicts, pillar edicts and cave inscriptions, correlating them with archaeological sites. The essay investigates linguistic peculiarities, such as the use of the Prakrit vernaculars, and comments on script variants between Kharoshthi and Brahmi. Particular attention is paid to doctrinal passages on dhamma, religious tolerance and welfare, which are compared with Buddhist canonical texts. The author also engages with chronological debates, noting that the edicts were issued over several years and that minor rock edicts may predate the major ones. Footnotes discuss epigraphic disputes and propose new readings for damaged portions.
Conclusion
The excursion underscores the complexity of reconstructing Aśoka’s message from inscriptions scattered across the subcontinent. By synthesising palaeography, linguistics and history, the author shows how the edicts chart the emperor’s evolving spiritual policy and administrative reforms.