The Reign of Ashoka

3rd-century BC Indian emperor and patron of Buddhism.

Ashoka, often referred to as Ashoka the Great, was the third ruler of the Mauryan Empire, reigning from 268 to 232 BC. He is remembered for his significant contributions to Buddhism and his efforts to spread the religion throughout his empire and beyond.

Ashoka's Early Reign and the Kalinga War

Ashoka ascended to the throne in 268 BC, succeeding his father, Bindusara. His early reign was marked by a series of military conquests, the most notable of which was the Kalinga War. The war took place around 262 BC, when Ashoka sought to annex the independent feudal republic of Kalinga, present-day Odisha.

The Kalinga War was one of the bloodiest in Indian history, with casualties reported to be in the hundreds of thousands. The brutality and mass loss of life deeply affected Ashoka, leading to a profound transformation in his outlook.

Ashoka's Conversion to Buddhism and Its Impact

Deeply moved by the devastation of the Kalinga War, Ashoka converted to Buddhism. He was influenced by the teachings of the Buddhist monks, who preached non-violence, compassion, and the Eightfold Path. This conversion marked a significant turning point in his reign and the history of Buddhism.

Ashoka became a patron of Buddhism, building stupas (religious monuments) and viharas (Buddhist monasteries) across his empire. He also sent Buddhist missionaries to regions beyond his empire, including Sri Lanka, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. This helped spread Buddhism far and wide, making it a world religion.

Ashoka's Dhamma and the Edicts of Ashoka

Following his conversion, Ashoka sought to govern in accordance with the principles of Buddhism. He formulated a policy known as "Dhamma," which was essentially a code of ethical conduct. Dhamma emphasized respect for all life forms, tolerance of all religions, honesty, and kindness.

To disseminate his Dhamma, Ashoka issued a series of edicts, known as the Edicts of Ashoka. These were inscriptions carved on pillars and rocks throughout his empire. The edicts outlined his policies and moral principles, and they serve as valuable historical records of his reign.

In conclusion, Ashoka's reign marked a significant period in the history of the Mauryan Empire and Buddhism. His conversion to Buddhism following the Kalinga War led to the spread of the religion beyond the Indian subcontinent. His policy of Dhamma and the Edicts of Ashoka reflect his commitment to ethical governance and the principles of Buddhism.