The set of Rock Edicts at Dahuli contain eleven out of the well known 14 Major Rock Edicts of Ashoka between 273 BC to 236 BC. The Rock Edicts found here include Nos. I-X, XIV and two separate Kalinga Edicts. The scripts used is in early Brahmi.
The Kalinga War was the turning point in the life of King Ashoka and he gave up his ambition of Supreme Emperor.
These inscriptions proclaim Ashoka's adherence to the Buddhist philosophy. The inscriptions show his efforts to develop the Buddhist dharma throughout his kingdom. Although Buddhism and the Buddha are mentioned, the edicts focus on social and moral precepts, rather than specific religious practices or the philosophical dimension of Buddhism.
On the rock above the Inscription, is the sculpture forepart of an elephant carved out of live rock which symbolizes Buddha, the 'Best of elephants' as in the form he was believed to have entered his mother's womb in dream.
The Kalinga War was the turning point in the life of King Ashoka and he gave up his ambition of Supreme Emperor.
These inscriptions proclaim Ashoka's adherence to the Buddhist philosophy. The inscriptions show his efforts to develop the Buddhist dharma throughout his kingdom. Although Buddhism and the Buddha are mentioned, the edicts focus on social and moral precepts, rather than specific religious practices or the philosophical dimension of Buddhism.
On the rock above the Inscription, is the sculpture forepart of an elephant carved out of live rock which symbolizes Buddha, the 'Best of elephants' as in the form he was believed to have entered his mother's womb in dream.
Wow these are awesome edicts & sculptures - right out of BC !
ReplyDeleteNice post and clicks
ReplyDeleteI had heard about this. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos!
ReplyDeleteHave a nice day! RW & SK
Wonderful rock carving on the elephant! Sounds historical significant place.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great carving - that elephant emerging from the rock!
ReplyDeleteI have been longing to see an Ashokan edit! and this one is marvellous
ReplyDeleteThese are really cool!
ReplyDeleteGreat photos for SWF,Rajesh!
ReplyDeleteMagnificent temple and lovely blue skies for a backdrop! Great capture for the day, Rajesh!
ReplyDeleteA great serie of photos!
ReplyDeleteWhat a treasure! This are very unique sculptures. Well taken photos Rajesh.
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful weekend.
Alexander
Alex's World! - http://www.kakinan.com/alex
awesome carving!
ReplyDeleteInteresting post, I love reading about history and seeing the sites that remain.
ReplyDeleteA king's journey from ambition to Buddhism is a worthy post indeed.
This is very interesting. It's amazing that the inscription this old can still be seen.
ReplyDeleteSo much history. I like that elephant rock!
ReplyDeleteCarving elephant out of live rock is amazing.
ReplyDeleteSimply breathtaking rock sculpture! Excellent photos!
ReplyDeleteInteresting, how the sculpture is of an elephant. Must be something about humans liking elephants - we visited a famous sculpture of an elephant yesterday called Lucy.
ReplyDeleteWow, very cool.
ReplyDeleteA unique elephant sculpture.
ReplyDeleteLove all the stone work ~ especially the elephant ~ Great photos ~ thanks, carol, xo
ReplyDeleteThank you for this wonderful pictorial bit of history. You are my India guru.
ReplyDeleteAn elephant rock, what a surprise ! Thanks for the inspiring sharing...
ReplyDelete(but I always knew that elephants rock's... :D )
ReplyDeletea lovely photos... Thanks for sharing...
ReplyDeleteAmazing photos -- love the elephant emerging from rock.
ReplyDeleteFascinating history...and the elephant carving is amazing.
ReplyDeletethe carvings are amazing and the history very interesting. Judyx
ReplyDeleteThe elephant seems to be born of the rock. Impressive art represented in this post.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful statues!
ReplyDeleteWow! Lovely architecture.
ReplyDeletewww.rajniranjandas.blogspot.in
Awesome post! Great captures!!
ReplyDelete