The State in Ancient India: A Study in the Structure and Practical Working of Political Institutions in North India in Ancient Times c12.109

c12.109

The liberalising element in Aśokan ethics is the precept and example of universal toleration. Buddhist Śramaṇas and Brāhmaṇas alike are to be revered and supported.⁴ Intolerance is declared to be a very short-sighted policy. "For whoever praises his own sect, or blames other sects,—all this out of devotion to his own sect,—if he is acting thus, he rather injures his own sect very severely. Therefore concord alone is very meritorious, (i.e.) that they should both hear and obey each other's morals. For this is the desire of Devānāmpriya (viz.) that all sects should be full of learning and should be pure in doctrine."⁵ Aśoka himself honoured all religions.⁶ He declared that "all sects may reside everywhere."⁷ He should like the doctrine of all sects to be pure.⁸ As part of the regard for others, Aśoka inculcates politeness towards relations, friends and acquaintances.⁹