The State in Ancient India: A Study in the Structure and Practical Working of Political Institutions in North India in Ancient Times c12.135

c12.135

In the course of his propagation of Dhamma, Aśoka attempted a few reforms which were necessary in his eyes. He prohibited the slaughter of animals at sacrifices, in defiance of Brahmanic sentiment. He prohibited Samâjas or festive gatherings where they indulged in excesses and where probably animal fights took place.⁴ He condemned many “vulgar and useless ceremonies” which women often practised “during illness, at the marriage of a son or daughter or when setting out on a journey.” In place of them he recommended the practice of Dhamma.⁵