Chandragupta Maurya and His Times c9.161

c9.161

It may be noted that Asoka also in one of his Edicts [Pillar Edict V] proclaims the protection of certain animals and birds mentioned in its list which is similar to that of Kauṭilya. Asoka's principle of protection is that 'the living must not live on the living' (*jīvena jīve no pusitaviye*), but his actual ordinance is based on Kauṭilya's principle in limiting protection to the harmless and nonviolent creatures. In general, Asoka also protects "all quadrupeds which do not lend themselves to any use nor are eaten" (*Paṭibhogam no eti na cha khādiyati*). The creatures mentioned in common for protection are *Haṁsa*, *Śuka*, *Śārika*, *Chakravāk*, and *Palasate* (Rhino). Kauṭilya has another principle of protection: it is to be extended to all creatures which are considered auspicious (*maṅgalyāḥ*).