This question focuses on a unique policy of moral and ethical conduct, known as "Dhamma," and the method used for its propagation by a famous ancient Indian emperor.
Understanding the Question, Key Concepts, and Approach
The question asks to identify the emperor who used inscriptions to promote the concept of "Dhamma." The approach is to link the policy of Dhamma and the extensive use of edicts for public communication to a specific ruler.
Detailed Solution
Step 1: Define the concept of "Dhamma". The term "Dhamma" (a Prakrit form of the Sanskrit "Dharma") refers to a code of righteous conduct and moral principles. As a state policy, it emphasized non-violence, tolerance towards all sects, respect for elders, and humane treatment of all beings. It was a secular ethical code rather than a specific religious doctrine.
Step 2: Identify the ruler and his method of propagation. The Mauryan emperor Ashoka adopted and actively propagated the policy of Dhamma, especially after the bloody Kalinga War, which led to his personal transformation. To spread these principles among his subjects, he had them inscribed on rocks and pillars throughout his vast empire. These inscriptions, known as Ashoka's Edicts, are found across the Indian subcontinent.
Step 3: Eliminate other options.
Chandragupta Maurya was the founder of the empire, but his policies were more aligned with the political statecraft of Kautilya's Arthashastra.
Bindusara did not have a comparable policy of public moral instruction.
Samudragupta was a Gupta ruler known for his military conquests, as detailed in the Prayag Prashasti, not for a policy of Dhamma.
Step 4: Conclusion. Emperor Ashoka is uniquely associated with the popularization of Dhamma through his widespread inscriptions.