- The inscriptions of Asoka were first deciphered by James Princep in 1837
- They are written in Pali language and in some places Prakrit was used
- The Brahmi script was employed for writing
- In the northwestern India, Asokan inscriptions were found in Kharosthi Script
- Asokan inscriptions remain valuable sources for the study of Asoka and the Mauryan Empire
- There are 14 Major Rock Edicts. The major pillar edicts were erected in important cities
- There are minor Rock Edicts and minor pillar edicts
- These edicts of Asoka deal with Asoka’s dhamma and also instructions given to his officials
- The XIII Rock Edicts gives details about his war with Kalinga
- The pillar edict VII gives a summary of his efforts to promote the Dhamma within his kingdom