Significance of Royal edict
Royal edict encompasses various interpretations across different traditions, primarily recognized as a formal decree or command from a ruler. In Tibetan Buddhism, it symbolizes the authoritative teachings of the Tathagatas. In Purana, it signifies official proclamations by a king that govern subjects, with severe consequences for falsification. Dharmashastra relates it to judicial matters impacting witness admissibility. Mahayana views it as orders either discouraging reverence towards the Buddha or preparing for his arrival. In Indian history, royal edicts require enforcement by local leaders.
Synonyms: Royal decree, Official proclamation, King's order, Decree, Proclamation, Command, Ordinance
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Royal edict'
The Royal edict in Buddhism encompasses a monarch's formal commands, from discouraging Buddha's followers to acknowledging teachings' authority, highlighting both societal resistance and the significance of devotion and respect for the Buddha's arrival.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A formal decree or command issued by a monarch; in this context, it is questioned whether the concept of validity being tied to relation can be justified as a genuine royal command.[1] (2) A formal decree issued by a ruler or authority dictating that something must be the case.[2]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) A formal decree or command, used here as an analogy for the authoritative nature of the teachings sealed by the Tathagatas.[3]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) An official order issued by a king, in this case, to discourage people from feeding the Buddha or listening to his teachings, representing societal resistance.[4] (2) A formal order issued by the king to prepare the city for the arrival of the Buddha, emphasizing devotion and respect towards the Buddha.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Royal edict'
In Hinduism, a Royal edict is a formal decree from a king that mandates strict adherence, affects judicial proceedings, and governs subjects, with falsification leading to severe penalties.
From: Agni Purana
(1) An official order or decree issued by a king or ruler.[6] (2) A decree or command by the king which if falsified or manipulated, incurs severe punishment.[7]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Official proclamations issued by the new king to govern his subjects across the realm.[8]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A formal decree by a ruler which impacts the admissibility of certain witnesses in judicial matters.[9]
The concept of Royal edict in local and regional sources
Royal edict signifies official commands from the king that require communication and enforcement by village headmen, highlighting the hierarchical governance structure and the king's authority in regional administration.
From: Impact of Vedic Culture on Society
(1) Official commands or decrees issued by the king, which needed to be communicated and enforced by village headmen.[10]