Ashoka's Means to Spread the Message of Dhamma

Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor, adopted various means to spread the message of Dhamma (also known as Buddhism) throughout his empire. These means aimed at promoting peace, morality, and social welfare among his subjects. Here are the methods he used:

1. Inscriptions
Ashoka engraved his messages on rocks and pillars located in different regions of his empire. These inscriptions were written in Prakrit language and Brahmi script. They were meant to communicate his policies, principles, and teachings to the people. The inscriptions primarily focused on moral behavior, non-violence, and the practice of Dhamma.

2. Edicts
Ashoka issued a series of edicts that were displayed in public places. These edicts were written in various languages such as Prakrit, Greek, and Aramaic. They contained Ashoka's instructions on righteous conduct, welfare measures, and the importance of Dhamma. The edicts were displayed to reach a wider audience and ensure that the message of Dhamma was accessible to all.

3. Missionaries
Ashoka sent missionaries to different parts of his empire as well as to neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Afghanistan. These missionaries were Buddhist monks who propagated the teachings of Dhamma and preached moral values. They played a crucial role in spreading the message of peace, non-violence, and righteousness among the masses.

4. Pilgrimage Sites
Ashoka identified and developed several pilgrimage sites associated with the life of Buddha. He erected stupas, monasteries, and pillars at these sites to commemorate Buddha's teachings and promote the practice of Dhamma. These pilgrimage sites attracted devotees from far and wide, enabling the message of Dhamma to reach a larger audience.

5. Social Welfare Measures
Ashoka implemented various welfare measures for the well-being of his subjects. He built hospitals, rest houses, and veterinary clinics to provide medical care to both humans and animals. He also established gardens and planted trees for beautification and environmental conservation. These measures were aimed at promoting social welfare and reflecting the principles of Dhamma.

6. Personal Example
Ashoka set a personal example by embracing the principles of Dhamma in his own life. He renounced violence, practiced compassion, and promoted moral conduct among his officials and subjects. By leading through his own actions, he inspired others to follow the path of righteousness and Dhamma.

Through these means, Ashoka successfully spread the message of Dhamma and established a legacy of moral governance that influenced generations to come. His efforts contributed to the widespread acceptance and practice of Buddhism in his empire and beyond.