Part of the Sarnath pillar edict of King Asoka. This text and many similar was carved into stone at several sites around India c. 250 BCE. They were probably the first widely distributed 'scriptures'.

Below: A fragment from another of Asoka's pillars using the standard lettering of the imperial edicts. The texts generally read: 'Do not harm animals, be generous to your friends, do not argue, be pure of heart, humble and faithful, remember your good points and also your bad - try to put them right'.

Above: One slab of four from a reliquary box with the names of various saints - some mentioned in scripture.

Two sides of a 7th century stone stamp with the handle bearing a lotus. The lettering is engraved in reverse for stamping clay tablets. The text praises Sakyamuni Buddha and suggests the clay tablet be interred in a stupa for the merit of the donor.

The mantra 'Om mani padme hum' is very popular in Tibet and is commonly found carved on 'mani' stones. These ones are built into a wall.