Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
The earliest inscription on stone was in which language?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
Epigraphy reveals the linguistic preferences of ancient administrations. Rulers often chose languages that were accessible to the common populace for public decrees.Explanation
The Edicts of Ashoka (3rd century BCE) represent the earliest deciphered stone inscriptions in India. They were written in Prakrit using various scripts (primarily Brahmi).Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Prakrit was the 'vernacular' or language of the masses, making it the ideal choice for Ashoka's messages of Dhamma.
Logic 2: Sanskrit was largely a liturgical and scholarly language at this time and did not appear in formal stone inscriptions until several centuries later (e.g., Rudradaman's Junagadh inscription).
Logic 3: Brahmi is a script, not a language, which is a common point of confusion.