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It is under Ashoka’s aegis that Indian civilisation, in…

“It is under Ashoka’s aegis that Indian civilisation, in the sense of a shared culture embracing everything from administration to art and architecture, makes a great leap forward, with tolerance as its watchword. One of his edicts is entirely devoted to this subject, with the great emperor under…” quote by Charles Allen
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““It is under Ashoka’s aegis that Indian civilisation, in the sense of a shared culture embracing everything from administration to art and architecture, makes a great leap forward, with tolerance as its watchword. One of his edicts is entirely devoted to this subject, with the great emperor under his regnal name of Piyadasi calling on his subjects to respect all religions. It ends with these words: Whoever praises his own religion, due to excessive devotion, and condemns others with the thought ‘Let me glorify my own religion’, only harms his own religion.””

Charles Allen

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Ashoka promoted religious tolerance, urging respect for all faiths and warning against self‑glorification.

In simple terms: Respect all religions, avoid favoritism.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate tolerance and humility.

Themes

tolerance leadership religion

Mood

inspirational thoughtful

Type

historical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • interfaith dialogue
  • education
  • community building

Key Concepts

ethics cultural integration

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance tradition and tolerance?
  • What role does leadership play in fostering respect?
A Different Perspective

Historical context differs from modern pluralism.

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