Mauryan Empire:
Que. Explain how Ashoka used religion as a tool of political aggrandizement. [UPSC CSE-2019]
Approach:
(1) Introduce the given statement.
(2) Mention the Historian perspective on Ashoka’s religious policy.
(3) Mention how Ashoka’s use of religion as a tool of political aggrandizement.
(4) Conclude by stating its impact.
Introduction:
Ashoka the Great, the renowned Mauryan emperor who ruled over a vast Indian empire in the 3rd century BCE, stands as a pivotal figure in history for his strategic use of religion as a powerful instrument of political aggrandizement.
This introductory overview explores the multifaceted ways in which Ashoka harnessed religion, primarily Buddhism, to advance his imperial ambitions and consolidate his rule.
His adept manipulation of religious principles, propagation of moral governance, and promotion of tolerance not only strengthened his authority but also left an indelible mark on the history of India and the broader world.
In this evaluation, we will delve into the specific strategies and policies employed by Ashoka to achieve his political objectives through religious means.
Ashoka the Great, also known as Ashoka Maurya, was a prominent Indian emperor who ruled the Maurya Empire from approximately 268 BCE to 232 BCE. He is widely recognized for his transformation from a ruthless conqueror to a benevolent and enlightened ruler.
Historian Perspective on Ashoka’s Religious Policy:
“Dhamma” corresponds to the Sanskrit word “Dharma” which literally means “which is to be held fast to” or “adhering strictly”. Many historians consider Ashoka’s “Dhamma” as a tool used by Ashoka for political aggrandizement.
(1) Nilakantha Shastri: He considered Dhamma as an ethical code of conduct formed by Ashoka for his subjects, who were expected to follow it. It was the guiding principles of social behaviour. Dhamma was a social concept which had a definite social objective of societal integration with the aim to bring about social harmony and integration among different religious sects. It would lead to political stability and integration. Ashoka taught the virtue of toleration and non-violence through dhamma at an age when religious tension was high and violence though war was prevalent. It certainly helped him in political stability.
(2) Romila Thapar: Dhamma was an invention of Ashoka based on the moral ethical principles based on both Buddhism and Brahmanism with the aim to consolidate the Empire. Romila Thapar underlines the political rationale behind the propagation of Dhamma. She minimizes the Buddhist elements in Ashoka’s Dhamma. She presents the view that the Dhamma was an ideological tool used by Ashoka to weld and consolidate his far-flung empire. He saw practical advantages in adopting and propagating dhamma, which was basically an ethical concept that focused on the relationship between the individual and the society.
(3) G.M. Bongard Levin: He also indicates the political nature of the policy of dhamma. According to him, “the inculcation of the dhamma was largely dictated by political reasons and the need for consolidating the state. The dhamma was a well-planned policy to weed out the discontent which might prevail among the servants and the labourers. According to him, “it would be one-sided to explain the emperor’s appeal for a kind treatment of slaves and servants in the light of traditional religious beliefs alone. It may have been caused by the intensified exploitation of slaves and dependent labourers, which led to discontent among the exploited groups of the population. Seeking to consolidate the empire, the Central power was trying to find a way of making such conflicts less sharp.”
Ashoka’s use of religion as a tool of political aggrandizement is a fascinating aspect of his reign and can be understood through the following points:
(1) Conversion to Buddhism: One of the most significant ways Ashoka used religion for political purposes was his conversion to Buddhism. After the brutal Kalinga War, in which a vast number of people were killed, Ashoka felt a deep sense of remorse and turned to Buddhism for solace. He embraced Buddhism and made it the state religion of his empire. This conversion allowed him to present himself as a compassionate and enlightened ruler, seeking to promote peace and non-violence.
(2) Promotion of Dharma: Ashoka’s commitment to Buddhism was not just a personal choice but a strategic move. He promoted the concept of “Dharma,” which can be understood as a moral and ethical code of conduct. Ashoka inscribed his edicts on pillars and rocks throughout his empire, spreading Buddhist principles and moral values. These edicts preached tolerance, kindness, and respect for all religious beliefs, portraying Ashoka as a just and inclusive ruler.
(3) Establishment of Dhamma Mahamattas: Ashoka appointed officials known as “Dhamma Mahamattas” or officers of righteousness to propagate his moral and ethical principles. These officials were tasked with ensuring that people followed the principles of Dharma and lived harmoniously. By doing so, Ashoka reinforced his image as a guardian of moral values and social order.
(4) Building Stupas and Monasteries: Ashoka actively supported the construction of stupas (Buddhist monuments) and monasteries across his empire. These structures served both religious and political purposes. They acted as centers of Buddhist worship and pilgrimage, reinforcing the prominence of Buddhism. Additionally, they helped in strengthening his rule by connecting him to the religious institutions and attracting the support of Buddhist monks and communities.
(5) Diplomacy through Religious Missions: Ashoka sent Buddhist missions to various parts of his empire and beyond, including Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and even Greece and Egypt. These missions not only spread Buddhism but also served diplomatic purposes. They helped forge peaceful relations with neighboring states, enhancing Ashoka’s influence without resorting to military conquest.
(6) Use of Symbols: Ashoka’s use of religious symbols, particularly the Ashoka Chakra (the wheel of law), on his edicts, pillars, and coins, was a clever way to associate his reign with Buddhist principles. This symbol remains a significant part of India’s national emblem to this day.
Conclusion:
Ashoka used religion, specifically Buddhism, as a powerful tool for political aggrandizement by presenting himself as a just and compassionate ruler who promoted moral values and religious tolerance. His embrace of Buddhism helped unify his vast empire and contributed to its stability, as well as enhancing his legacy as one of India’s most revered historical figures.
