A History of Pali Literature v2.c19.21

v2.c19.21

It is generally accepted by scholars that Buddhism is the basis and source of inspiration in regard to Asoka's Dhamma. The Singālovāda Sutta of the Dīgha Nikāya and the Mahā-mangala Sutta of the Sutta Nipāta enumerate just those courses of conduct which Asoka was never tired of inculcating on the minds of his people and it is easy to understand how greatly the texts of the Rock Edicts, 9 and 11, were inspired by the Mangala Sutta. Now there are the two scriptural texts which have been particularly reserved by Buddhism for the lay people to read, contemplate, and practise.