Devanampriya Ashoka, also known as Ashoka the Great, was one of the most remarkable emperors of ancient India, belonging to the Maurya Dynasty. His name is frequently associated with the spread of Buddhism and his unique method of governance rooted in ethical principles. One of the most enduring legacies of Ashoka is his series of edicts inscribed on rocks and pillars throughout the Indian subcontinent. These inscriptions not only shed light on his reign but also frequently refer to him as ‘Devanampriya,’ meaning Beloved of the Gods. Understanding which edicts contain this title helps in uncovering the historical identity and philosophies of Ashoka, as well as the geographical and cultural extent of his rule.
Understanding the Title Devanampriya
Meaning and Significance
The term ‘Devanampriya’ translates directly to ‘Beloved of the Gods.’ Ashoka adopted this title as a mark of both humility and divine favor. It was a political and spiritual statement suggesting that his rule was aligned with higher moral and cosmic principles. This designation appears repeatedly in his edicts and helps scholars identify the true authorship of these inscriptions.
Why Ashoka Used the Title
By using the title Devanampriya, Ashoka intended to distinguish himself from previous rulers. After the brutal Kalinga War, he experienced a deep personal transformation and embraced Dhamma (Dharma). This title became a part of his new identity, symbolizing his role as a compassionate, just, and morally upright monarch who was favored by divine forces.
Ashokan Edicts: An Overview
Types of Edicts
Ashoka’s inscriptions are classified into several groups based on their content, location, and material form:
- Major Rock Edicts Larger inscriptions found on natural rock surfaces.
- Minor Rock Edicts Shorter messages inscribed on rocks, often with more personal messages.
- Major Pillar Edicts Inscribed on monolithic pillars, usually placed in important cities or crossroads.
- Minor Pillar Edicts Contain limited messages, often about practical governance or moral instructions.
Languages and Scripts
These edicts were written in several languages and scripts, including Prakrit, Greek, and Aramaic. The use of local languages ensured that the messages were accessible to a diverse population. The script used was mostly Brahmi in the Indian subcontinent, with Kharosthi in the northwest regions.
Edicts Mentioning Devanampriya Ashoka
Major Rock Edicts
Many of theMajor Rock Edictsbegin with the phrase ‘Devanampriya Priyadarshi Raja,’ confirming that Ashoka is the speaker. The term ‘Priyadarshi’ means ‘He who looks with kindness’ and is believed to be another title or epithet used by Ashoka. Notable edicts in this category include:
- Major Rock Edict I Introduces the concept of Dhamma and calls for moral living.
- Major Rock Edict XIII Reflects deeply on the Kalinga War and Ashoka’s remorse, beginning with Devanampriya.
- Major Rock Edict II Contains information on public health and the treatment of people, using the title Devanampriya.
These edicts are found in locations such as Girnar (Gujarat), Kalsi (Uttarakhand), and Dhauli (Odisha), confirming the wide spread of Ashoka’s influence.
Major Pillar Edicts
TheMajor Pillar Edictsalso consistently use the title Devanampriya. These inscriptions were often more formal and erected in highly visible places to reinforce state authority and ethical governance.
- Pillar Edict I Declares Ashoka’s commitment to Dhamma and urges officials to behave justly.
- Pillar Edict VII Summarizes the purpose of Ashoka’s edicts and moral policies, signed under the name Devanampriya Priyadarshi.
Examples of these pillars can be seen in places like Lauriya-Nandangarh, Delhi-Topra, and Vaishali. These massive monolithic columns are among the finest examples of Mauryan craftsmanship and also include artistic elements like the famous lion capital of Sarnath.
Minor Rock Edicts
In theMinor Rock Edicts, Ashoka sometimes drops the title Priyadarshi but consistently refers to himself as Devanampriya. These are more personal and often written in first person, showing a more intimate side of his rule.
One prominent example is theBrahmagiri Edictin Karnataka, where he uses Devanampriya to urge people to follow the path of Dhamma. These messages often focus on moral behavior, compassion, and religious tolerance.
Confirmation of Identity
Devanampriya as a Clue
For many years, historians debated whether ‘Devanampriya Priyadarshi’ referred to Ashoka or another ruler. The mystery was resolved by the discovery of edicts atMaskiandGurjarain which the name Ashoka appears along with the title Devanampriya. This confirmed that the king referred to in the inscriptions was indeed Ashoka of the Maurya Dynasty.
Maski Edict and Its Importance
TheMaski Edictlocated in present-day Karnataka is especially significant. It explicitly names the ruler as ‘Devanampriya Ashoka,’ ending centuries of speculation and anchoring the historical identity of the emperor with certainty. This discovery allowed historians to attribute the entire corpus of inscriptions bearing the title Devanampriya to Emperor Ashoka.
Philosophical Messages in the Edicts
Dhamma and Governance
Through the voice of Devanampriya, Ashoka promoted a unique vision of rulership based on moral responsibility rather than conquest. The edicts emphasize:
- Non-violence (Ahimsa)
- Respect for all religions
- Welfare of people and animals
- Justice and fairness in administration
Legacy and Historical Relevance
The frequent use of the title Devanampriya across such a wide geographical area signifies the power and reach of Ashoka’s moral message. It marks a radical shift from traditional monarchic authority to ethical and welfare-driven kingship, setting an example for future rulers across Asia.
The name ‘Devanampriya Ashoka’ appears in numerous edicts across India, especially in the Major Rock Edicts, Major Pillar Edicts, and Minor Rock Edicts. These inscriptions serve as historical proof of Ashoka’s identity, philosophy, and rule. The discovery of the Maski Edict solidified the association between the name Devanampriya and Ashoka the Great, helping modern historians attribute this vast body of moral and administrative literature to him. Through these edicts, Ashoka not only ruled a vast empire but also left behind a powerful message of peace, tolerance, and righteous governance that resonates even today.