Final answer:
King Ashoka used rock and pillar edicts to display laws and convey messages of compassionate rule throughout his empire, having officials explain them to enhance understanding and governance.
Step-by-step explanation:
King Ashoka used rock and pillar edicts to display laws throughout his empire so people could understand and obey them. This was part of his commitment to governance based on Buddhist principles of peace and non-violence. Local officials at the foot of the pillars would explain the messages to the populace, effectively using the edicts as a means of communication and administration across his vast empire. These edicts were not merely legal pronouncements but also conveyed Ashoka's promises of compassionate rule, benevolence, and a commitment to improving the welfare of his subjects. The use of the local language instead of Sanskrit, which was the court language, was one strategy to ensure his messages were understood by a wider audience. Also, the erection of such pillars demonstrated Ashoka's presence and united his empire by making every subject aware of their ruler and his policies.