Question

Why were most of the Ashoka inscriptions inscribed in the Prakrit language?

A Because it was the language of the State
B Because it was used by the tathagata Buddha
C Because it was understood by a majority of the people
D Because it was the only language known at that time

Answer & Explanation

Answer: [C]

Most of the Ashoka inscriptions were inscribed in the Prakrit language because it was understood by a majority of the people.

Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor who ruled a vast empire in the 3rd century BCE, wanted to spread his message and edicts to as many people as possible. Prakrit was a vernacular language that was widely spoken and understood by the common people in various regions of the Mauryan Empire. By using Prakrit in his inscriptions, Ashoka ensured that his messages would be accessible and comprehensible to a large number of his subjects.

While Sanskrit was the classical language of ancient India and was used in certain contexts, Prakrit was the spoken language of the common people. Ashoka's decision to use Prakrit in his inscriptions demonstrates his desire to communicate directly with the masses and make his edicts accessible to a wide audience.

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