Which of the following Mauryan rock edicts explicitly mentions the devastating human cost and intense remorse experienced by Emperor Ashoka following his military campaign against Kalinga, which ultimately inspired his adoption of Dhamma?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Major Rock Edict XIII provides a detailed account of the Kalinga war, recording the deportation of one hundred and fifty thousand people, the death of one hundred thousand, and the profound sorrow that turned Ashoka toward non-violence and moral conquest. Major Rock Edict XI elaborates on the policy of Dhamma and charitable giving. Major Rock Edict VI establishes the king's constant accessibility to petitioners regardless of his location. Minor Rock Edict I records his personal spiritual journey and association with the Buddhist Sangha.