Collection of Prakrit and Sanskrit Inscriptions

Author(s): P Piterson
Publisher: Bhavnagar Archiological Department

Page 66

MAURYA DYNASTY.
13
.. they are to superintend among government officials as among elders, also in Påtaliputra and abroad..... others of (my) relatives are sent every where. This practice of righteousness which is initiated is very ...... Ministers of religion. I'or this end has this Edict been caused to be written.
Edict VI. King Devânâmpriya Priyadarsin says : In past times tbere has never yet existed care for the (civil) interests, nor arrangements for hearing complaints ; thercforc have I instituted the same ; all the time I have been reigning there have been placed everywhere persons appointed to hear complaints in the apartments of women, in sanctuaries, in parks and in similar places in order that they should know the wants of my people and report then to me. In all rospects I further the interests of my people. In whatever I declarc by word of inouth.... ,* or whatever I entrust to my Ministers or Preceptors ...* I always reconsider ..* This have I everywhere and at all time commanded. For to me there is no satisfaction in increasing litigation. Litigation is necessary only for the securing of some (civil) interest. I deem it my duty to do good to all, but would attend to quarrels only so far as they tend to settle any disputed interest. I have no other business, but the little effort that I am constantly doing for the good of all. Thus do I wish to discharge somehow my debt to all beings ...* may attain heaven. This Edict has been caused to be written for tliis purpose, would that I should look after it for long; let my sons, grandsons aud great-grandsons after me also labour for universal good, which is difficult without extreme exertion,
Edict VII. King Devånâmpriya Priyadarsin desires that everywhere the ascetics of all persuasions should remain (in pcacc); he desires in all of them self-control and purity of the soul. But people have different opinions and different likings; they may do all or a part. Neverthless, for one who is not able to make large religious gifts--restrain over senses, purity of mind, gratefulness, and firm devotion which lasts for ever, are good.
Edict VIII. In past times the kings went out on journeys of pleasure ; stag-hunting and other such recrcations were in vogue. But King Devândipriya Priyadaršin, ten years after his inauguration, regards them as improper. Therefore he bere regards as proper and good, only those religious acts (journeys ?)
The prikrila cat be made ont,
Ahol Shrutgyanam