The State in Ancient India: A Study in the Structure and Practical Working of Political Institutions in North India in Ancient Times c12.138.2

c12.138.2

"My desire," says the emperor in the Saṃchi Pillar Inscription, "is that the Saṃgha may be united and of long duration." He openly threatened disciplinary action against schismatics. "That monk or nun," so runs the inscription on the Sârnâth Pillar, "who shall break up the Saṃgha should be caused to put on white robes and to reside in a non-residence." The edict is communicated to monks and nuns; a copy of it is to be retained by the Mahâmâtras, another deposited with the lay-worshippers, who should study it on the fast-day service. "And as far as your district (extends), dispatch ye (an officer) according to the letter of this edict. In the same way cause (your subordinates) to dispatch (an officer) according to the letter of this (edict) in all the territories surrounding forts.” Elsewhere in the Calcutta-Bairat Rock Inscription he offers friendly advice and guidance to his co-religionists. “The Mâgadha king salutes the Saṃgha and hopes they are well and comfortable . . . Whatever has been spoken by the Buddha has been well-spoken. But, sirs, what would indeed appear to me, ‘thus the true Dhamma will be of long duration,’ that I feel bound to declare.