Ashoka the Great

Definition

Ashoka the Great was an Indian emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who reigned from 268 to 232 BCE and is best known for his promotion of Buddhism and non-violence. After witnessing the horrors of war during his conquest of Kalinga, he adopted a policy of Dhamma, emphasizing moral values, compassion, and peaceful coexistence, which helped in the spread of Buddhism throughout Asia.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ashoka's reign marked a significant shift in governance as he moved from a militaristic approach to one centered on peace and moral governance after the Kalinga War.
2. He was responsible for building numerous stupas and monasteries, which became crucial centers for Buddhist learning and practice.
3. Ashoka established a vast network of trade routes to promote economic prosperity and cultural exchange throughout his empire.
4. His edicts were inscribed in multiple languages, including Brahmi and Greek, demonstrating his commitment to effective communication with diverse populations.
5. Ashoka's promotion of Buddhism had a lasting influence, helping to spread the religion beyond India into regions like Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.

Review Questions

• How did Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism influence his policies and governance?
  • After converting to Buddhism following the brutal Kalinga War, Ashoka implemented policies rooted in non-violence and moral governance. His commitment to Dhamma led him to promote ethical behavior among his subjects, which significantly shifted the focus from military conquest to the welfare of his people. This change not only redefined how he ruled but also established a legacy that emphasized compassion and respect for all living beings.
• Discuss the significance of the Edicts of Ashoka in understanding his approach to governance and the spread of Buddhism.
  • The Edicts of Ashoka are vital for understanding how he communicated his policies and ethical values to his subjects. These inscriptions articulate his dedication to Dhamma, including principles such as tolerance, respect for elders, and compassion toward animals. By making these edicts public in various languages, Ashoka ensured that diverse populations within his empire understood his message, thereby facilitating the spread of Buddhism and promoting social harmony.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Ashoka's reign on the development of Buddhism both in India and beyond.
  • Ashoka's reign had profound long-term effects on Buddhism's development by transforming it into a major world religion. His extensive promotion of Buddhist ideals through edicts, monastic establishments, and missionary activities helped establish a framework for Buddhist thought that transcended regional boundaries. This not only solidified Buddhism's presence within India but also led to its diffusion into Sri Lanka, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia, ultimately contributing to its global influence.

Related terms

Dhamma: A set of moral and ethical principles based on Buddhist teachings that Ashoka promoted as a guide for personal conduct and governance.

Edicts of Ashoka: A series of inscriptions on pillars and rocks that communicate Ashoka's policies, principles, and commitment to spreading Buddhism and Dhamma across his empire.

Maurya Dynasty: An ancient Indian dynasty founded by Chandragupta Maurya that reached its zenith under Ashoka the Great, becoming one of the largest empires in Indian history.