Ancient Patronage Systems
What are Votive Inscriptions? Ancient Indian Records
Votive inscriptions in ancient India recorded gifts to religious institutions and highlighted the spiritual concept of merit transference to others.
Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History Part I
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Updated:
Exam Year
2016
Evidence Source
Link ↗Consider the following statements about votive inscriptions in the 2nd century BC:
1. They record gifts made to religious institutions.
2. They tell us about the idea of transference of the meritorious results of the action of one person to another person.
[UPSC CDS 2016 (I)]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
Votive inscriptions are brief records engraved on railings or pillars of stupas and temples by ordinary people to commemorate their donations.
Authentic Source Evidence
In the 2nd century BCE, votive inscriptions (like those at Sanchi or Bharhut) documented the name, profession, and hometown of the donor. They often included the wish that the merit of the gift be shared with family or all living beings (transference of merit).
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"What do votive inscriptions reveal about ancient Indian society?"
They reveal that diverse groups, including craftsmen, merchants, and women, were active patrons of religion, not just kings.
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"Votive inscriptions democratize history by providing the names of common people who participated in the sacred architecture of their time."
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