A Mahamatra (meaning "Officer of high rank")[1] was an "officer of morality" established by the Indian Maurya Emperor Ashoka (reigned 269-233 BCE). Their full title was Dhaṃma Mahāmātā, the "Inspectors of Dharma".[2] They were apparently a class of senior officials who were in charge various aspects of administration and justice.[3]
The Mahamatras are mentioned in several of the Edicts of Ashoka, inscribed on rocks or pillars. They seem to have been an essential part of his government.[3]
Some were called "Dharma-Mahamatras" ("Mahamatras of Virtue"), who seem to have been established in the 14th year of Ashoka's reign (256 BCE).[3] There were also Amta-mahamatras in charge of foreigners, and Stri-adhyaksha- mahamatras, in charge of women.[3][4]
References
- ↑ Early history of Jammu region{{#if:|, {{{last}}}}. Gyan Publishing House(2010). ISBN 9788178357706
- ↑ A Social History of India{{#if:|, {{{last}}}}. APH Publishing(2000). ISBN 9788176481700
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 Ancient Indian History and Civilization{{#if:|, {{{last}}}}. New Age International(1999). ISBN 9788122411980
- ↑ Indian History{{#if:|, {{{last}}}}. Allied Publishers(1988). ISBN 9788184245684