Chapter – 7

Ashoka, The Emperor Who Gave Up War

Classwork Assignment

A – Answer the following questions :-

Q1. What were the problems that Ashoka wanted to solve by introducing dhamma?

Ans – Ashoka wanted to solve several problems by introducing dhamma such as –

1. conflicts caused due to differences in religions.

2. sacrifices of animals.

3. Ill treatments towards slaves by their masters.

4. Quarrels in families and among neighbours.

Q2. Why did Ashoka decide to give up war?

Ans – During the Kalinga War several people were killed. Seeing the violence and the bloodshed Ashoka was filled with sorrow and decided not to fight any war after that.

Q3. What was Ashoka’s Dhamma?

Ans – Dhamma is a Prakirt word for the Sanskrit term ‘ Dharma ‘. Ashoka’s Dhamma were based on values such as non-violence , tolerance and respect towards elders.

Q4. What is Dynasty?

Ans – When members of the same family become rulers one after another, the family is often called dynasty.

Q5. What were the means adopted by Ashoka to spread message of Dhamma?

Ans – Ashoka spread his message of dhamma by :

a. Appointing officials known as Dhamma, Mahamatta who went place to place teaching people about dhamma.

b. Inscribing his message on rocks and pillars.

c. Sending messengers to spread ideas about dhamma to other land such as Syria , Egypt etc.

Q6. Explain the term tribute.

Ans – Unlike taxes, which were collected on a regular basis , tribute was collected as and when it was possible from people who gave a variety of things , more or less willingly.

Q7. Why was Ashoka known as an unique ruler?

Ans – Ashoka was known as an unique ruler because :-

a. He was the only king who gave up conquest after winning Kalinga War.

b. He was the first ruler who took his messages to people through inscriptions.

Q8. Describe the governance in the Mauryan Empire ruled by Ashoka.

Ans – Ashoka had direct control over Patliputra whereas other areas were ruled from the provincial capitals such as Taxila and Ujjain. The Emperor supervised the whole administration with the help of royal prince. Officials were appointed for collecting tax and maintaining law and order.

Homework Assignment

Complete Q/A of Ch – 7.