"This Dhamma edict was written by me after I had been consecrated twenty-six years. I have caused this Dhamma edict to be inscribed for the following purpose: that it may endure for a long time, and th…"

"No living beings are to be slaughtered or offered in sacrifice. Nor are gatherings to be held where many animals are killed. For King Priyadarsin, Beloved of the Gods, sees much evil in such gathering…"

"Thus speaks King Priyadarsin, Beloved of the Gods: I have had this Dhamma edict written so that my sons and grandsons may not think of new conquests, and that if a conquest by arms should become neces…"

"The Beloved of the Gods, King Piyadasi, speaks thus: The people of the unconquered territories beyond the borders might think: 'What does the king desire with regard to us?'"

"I consider the promotion of the people's welfare my highest duty, and its exercise is grounded in work and constant application."