2.7.3. Historical evidence from inscriptions

To find out how epigraphists and historians work, let us look at two Asokan inscriptions more closely. Note that the name of the ruler, Asoka, is not mentioned in the inscription. What is used instead are titles adopted by the ruler – devanampiya, often translated as “beloved of the gods” and piyadassi, or “pleasant to behold.” The name Asoka is mentioned in some other inscriptions, which also contain these titles.

Inscriptions are important artifacts that provide insight into historical events and figures. In the case of Asokan inscriptions, the name 'Asoka' is often not present, but instead, titles such as 'devanampiya' and 'piyadassi' are used. These titles suggest a strong identification of the ruler with the divine and suggest how he wished to be perceived by his subjects. This emphasizes the ruler's connection with godliness and benevolence, providing a more profound understanding of leadership during that time.

Think of this like a modern-day leader who prefers to be referred to by their title or honorific rather than their name, such as 'Your Excellency' or 'Honorable.' This can create a sense of respect and authority, similar to how Asoka wanted his titles to resonate with his subjects.

After examining all these inscriptions, and finding that they match in terms of content, style, language, and palaeography, epigraphists have concluded that they were issued by the same ruler. You may also have noticed that Asoka claims that earlier rulers had no arrangements to receive reports.

Scholars, known as epigraphists, study inscriptions to understand their historical significance. By analyzing various inscriptions for similar characteristics, they can attribute them to a particular ruler. In Asoka's case, he also acknowledges that his predecessors lacked a system for receiving regular reports about their people. This claim showcases a level of administrative advancement during his rule, highlighting his intent to improve governance and the welfare of the populace.

Imagine a school principal who supports a new system for teachers to report on student progress regularly, contrasting with previous principals who rarely checked in. The principal’s commitment to open communication could imply a more proactive approach to education, much like Asoka's reforms in governance.

Historians have to constantly assess statements made in inscriptions to judge whether they are true, plausible or exaggerations.

Epigraphists and historians must critically evaluate the information inscribed by rulers. Since these inscriptions often served specific purposes, such as showcasing achievements or justifying rule, it is crucial to determine the truthfulness of the claims made. This assessment process involves comparing information from various inscriptions and considering the historical context in which they were created.

This is similar to reading historical speeches or documents today; we would analyze the content, check against known facts, and consider who wrote it and why. For example, a politician might exaggerate achievements in a speech to gain public favor, and historians would scrutinize these claims against objective data.

While Asokan inscriptions have been found in present-day Orissa, the one depicting his anguish is missing. In other words, the inscription has not been found in the region that was conquered.

The absence of certain inscriptions, especially those that might reflect the realities of conquered territories, can limit our understanding of historical narratives. This raises important questions about the representation of past events; when analyzing inscriptions, historians must consider that not all significant events or sentiments were recorded equally, leading to incomplete histories.

Think of a movie that tells a story from one character's perspective. This viewpoint may leave out crucial aspects of other character’s experiences, making it a biased retelling of events. Similarly, the lack of inscriptions from certain places means the history we understand is incomplete and often skewed towards the agency that created these inscriptions.

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