NCERT 6th Class (CBSE) Social Science: The First Empire: The Mauryas

Question: What were the problems that Ashoka wanted to solve by introducing ‘dhamma’?

Answer: There were a number of problems in the empire that led Ashoka to introduce his ‘dhamma’. People in the empire followed different religious, usually causing conflicts. Animal sacrifice was common. Slaves and servants were ill-treated by their masters. There were quarrels among civilians. To solve these problems, Ashoka introduced his ‘dhamma’.

Question: What were the means adopted by Ashoka to spread the message of ‘dhamma’?

Answer: Ashoka appointed officials (called ‘dhamma mahamatta’) to go from place to place and tell people about ‘dhamma’. Ashoka got his messages inscribed on rocks and pillars too, in a language called as Prakrit which was comprehensible to all. Messengers were also send to other parts of the world.

Question: Why do you think slaves and servants were ill-treated? Do you think the orders of the emperor would have improved their condition? Give reasons for your answer.

Answer: Slaves and servants were ill-treated because their masters felt superior to them. The masters treated them as animals. It was because of the old Varna’ system. The emperor’s orders might have helped to some extent. Ashoka was a king who was loved by his subjects. Moreover his ‘dhamma’ was a realistic innovation.

Question: Write a short paragraph explaining to Roshan why the lions are shown on our currency notes. List at least one other object on which you see them.

Answer: The lions are part of the Lion Capital in Samath. These lions are shown on our currency notes in honour of one of the greatest kings of India, Ashoka, who built the Capital. Moreover, on independence, the lion was recognized as the national animal, so the notes also showed the Lion Capital. Another object which has the lions are shown are the coins of our currency.

Question: Suppose you had the power to inscribe your orders, what four commands would you like to issue?

Ans: To answer this question, use your own imagination and help from friends and teacher.

Some sample points:

1. Slavery be abolished.
2. Animal sacrifice be stopped.
3. People should not fight among themselves.
4. No discrimination be practiced based on gender, caste, creed etc.