Why did Asoka build stone pillars across his empire?

Answer 1

Ashoka, also known as Emperor Ashoka the Great, erected stone pillars across his empire for various reasons:

1. Edicts and Communication: The pillars mainly served as a medium to communicate Ashoka's edicts and policies to his people. These edicts contained moral instructions, religious teachings, and announcements of welfare measures for the welfare and governance of his vast empire.

2. Uniformity: The pillars helped in creating a sense of uniformity across the empire since they were erected in various regions. This helped in spreading Ashoka's message and policies widely and ensuring consistency in their implementation.

3. Accessibility: The stone pillars were strategically placed in populated areas, along trade routes, and near major cities to ensure maximum visibility and accessibility to the public. They were often placed near sources of water, providing a central meeting point for people to gather, read, and understand the edicts.

4. Credibility and Authority: The stone pillars, made of enduring stone material, symbolized the everlasting authority and power of Ashoka. By erecting these pillars, he aimed to establish his credibility and authority as a benevolent ruler whose edicts should be followed.

5. Legacy and Remembrance: Ashoka wanted to be remembered as a great ruler who prioritized welfare, ethical conduct, and religious harmony. By erecting these pillars, he ensured that his legacy would endure beyond his reign and that future generations would learn about his teachings and policies.

Overall, the stone pillars were a means for Ashoka to communicate and enforce his policies, establish his authority, and create a lasting legacy as a ruler who promoted peace, justice, and moral conduct.