The policy of Dhamma is an all-encompassing concept dealing with all aspects of citizens’ life in Ashokan state. This policy is well propagated by Ashoka himself via his edicts. On the other hand, din-i-Illahi is a religious policy preaching tolerance. These policies have certain similarities and differences.
Similarities between Dhamma and Din-i-Illahi
- Amalgamation of Religions:
- Dhamma draws its principles from Buddhism and Hinduism.
- Din-i-Illahi is an essence of Islam and Hinduism, incorporating elements from Christianity, Jainism, and Zoroastrianism.
- Emphasis on Non-Violence:
- Ashoka’s Rock Edicts promote not killing animals unnecessarily.
- Akbar’s Din-i-Illahi emphasizes kindness, forbidding the slaughter of animals and avoiding cruel punishments.
- Religious Tolerance:
- Ashoka’s Rock Edicts 7 and 12 promote tolerance for different faiths.
- Akbar’s Din-i-Illahi aimed to unite the empire with its religious diversity.
- Vague and Fresh Policies:
- Both doctrines are based on moral interpretation rather than specific religious scriptures.
- Example: Historians still debate whether Din-i-Illahi is a religion or not.
- Humanistic Emperors:
- Both Ashoka and Akbar were rulers who initially fought wars but later adopted policies to win over their subjects through love and tolerance.
- Ashoka’s 13th edict advocates conquest through Dhamma, not war.
- Akbar’s Din-i-Illahi sought to reconcile religious differences between his Muslim and Hindu subjects
Differences between Dhamma and Din-i-Illahi
- Secular vs. Religious Viewpoint:
- Dhamma is secular and taken from prominent religions of the time.
- Din-i-Illahi is a new religion formed by blending aspects of various religions.
- Objectives of the Policy:
- Dhamma aimed to guide people toward morality without rigid doctrines or rules.
- Din-i-Illahi has a doctrinal aspect with rules for followers, including initiation and rituals like eulogic dinner.
- Adoption:
- While Dhamma was more of a social guideline, adopting Din-i-Illahi was a means for nobles to gain favor at Akbar’s court, though it was technically voluntary.
Philosophy
- Din-i-Illahi: Akbar established Din-i-Illahi as a religious policy to promote greater understanding of different religions, and to foster philosophical discussions (like in the Ibadat Khana, a house of worship he created for interfaith dialogues).
- Dhamma: Ashoka’s policy of Dhamma was meant to be implementable and straightforward, designed for easy comprehension by the common people. It was seen as a social policy rather than a deeply philosophical one.
Attitude Towards Other Beliefs
- Din-i-Illahi: Akbar’s policy did not criticize other religions openly, even when their practices conflicted with its own doctrines.
- Example: An imperial farman (edict) explicitly stated that no state-sponsored religious reformation was to take place, emphasizing the importance of tolerance.
- Dhamma: Ashoka’s policy was critical of certain religious practices, particularly those involving animal sacrifices and lavish rituals.
- Example: This criticism is evident in his major rock edicts, which openly express these concerns.