My EDICTS

 I have carved edicts into walls and pillars throughout the empire. To promote Buddhist values, general welfare, justice, and security. I hope we will all follow these edicts and learn from them. Here is an example of security and general welfare.

• My officers have been appointed  for the welfare [safety] and  happiness of the . . . people. I  have given them . . . authority in judgment and punishment. But it is desirable that there should be uniformity [sameness] in judicial [trial] procedure and punishment.

• On the roads . . . trees have been planted for the enjoyment of animals and men. I have had ponds dug and shelters erected along the roads. Everywhere I have had wells dug.