Ashoka (304-232 BCE), also known as Ashoka the Great, was an Indian emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who ruled from 268 to 232 BCE. He is renowned for his conversion to Buddhism after the brutal Kalinga War, leading him to adopt principles of non-violence and tolerance. Ashoka played a pivotal role in spreading Buddhism across India and beyond, promoting welfare policies and religious tolerance. His rock and pillar edicts, inscribed with his teachings, provide valuable historical insights into his reign.
Early Life and Background
Ashoka, also known as Ashoka the Great, was born in 304 BCE to the Mauryan Emperor Bindusara and his queen, Subhadrangi (also known as Dharma). His birthplace is believed to be Pataliputra, present-day Patna in Bihar, India. Ashoka belonged to the Maurya dynasty, which was founded by his grandfather Chandragupta Maurya, who established the first significant empire in ancient India after overthrowing the Nanda dynasty.
Ashoka had several half-brothers, and from a young age, he was known for his exceptional skills in combat, military strategy, and governance. His early education included training in various arts and sciences, which was customary for princes of that era. Despite his capabilities, Ashoka was not initially the primary heir to the throne, as his older brothers were ahead in the line of succession.
Ascension to the Throne
The circumstances of Ashoka’s rise to power are marked by intrigue and internal conflict. According to historical records, including accounts by Buddhist chroniclers, Ashoka was appointed as the governor of Ujjain, a significant province of the Mauryan Empire, during his father’s reign. His administration in Ujjain demonstrated his aptitude for governance and military affairs.
Upon the death of Bindusara around 273 BCE, a struggle for succession ensued. According to the Dipavamsa and Mahavamsa, ancient Buddhist chronicles from Sri Lanka, Ashoka engaged in a brutal conflict with his brothers. It is believed that he emerged victorious through a series of battles, leading to his coronation as emperor around 268 BCE. Some historical texts suggest that Ashoka’s path to the throne involved considerable bloodshed, earning him the epithet “Chand Ashoka” or “Ashoka the Fierce.”
Early Reign and the Kalinga War
Ashoka’s early reign continued the expansionist policies of his predecessors. The most significant military campaign during his rule was the conquest of Kalinga, a prosperous and strategically located kingdom in present-day Odisha. The Kalinga War, which took place around 261 BCE, was a pivotal event in Ashoka’s life and reign.
According to Ashoka’s own inscriptions, particularly the 13th Rock Edict, the war resulted in massive casualties: over 100,000 soldiers and civilians were killed, and more than 150,000 were displaced. The sheer scale of suffering caused by the war profoundly affected Ashoka. Witnessing the devastation and hearing accounts of the anguish among the survivors led to a profound transformation in his outlook.
Conversion to Buddhism and Dharma
Following the Kalinga War, Ashoka underwent a significant personal and ideological transformation. He embraced Buddhism, influenced by Buddhist monks such as Upagupta and possibly Moggaliputta Tissa. Ashoka’s conversion was not merely a personal spiritual change but also marked a shift in his administrative policies and approach to governance.
Ashoka adopted the principle of “Dhamma” (Pali: “Dharma”), which he described as a moral code based on virtues such as truthfulness, compassion, non-violence, and respect for all life forms. His interpretation of Dharma was influenced by Buddhist teachings but also incorporated elements of existing Indian philosophies and ethical principles. Ashoka sought to propagate these values throughout his empire, aiming to create a just and harmonious society.
Edicts and Propagation of Dharma
One of the most remarkable aspects of Ashoka’s reign was his use of inscriptions, known as the Edicts of Ashoka, to communicate his policies and beliefs across the empire. These edicts, inscribed on rocks, pillars, and caves, were written in various languages and scripts, including Prakrit, Greek, and Aramaic, to reach diverse populations within the empire.
The edicts covered a wide range of topics, including moral and ethical guidelines, administrative orders, social welfare measures, and religious tolerance. They emphasized non-violence (Ahimsa), respect for all religious traditions, humane treatment of animals, and the importance of family and social harmony. Some of the key edicts include:
- Rock Edict XIII: This edict reflects Ashoka’s remorse over the Kalinga War and his resolve to follow and promote Dharma.
- Pillar Edict VII: It expresses Ashoka’s desire to ensure that his officials practice Dharma and treat the people with kindness and justice.
- Major Rock Edict XII: It emphasizes religious tolerance and encourages respect for other sects and religious traditions.
Ashoka also established a network of officers known as “Dhamma Mahamatras” to oversee the implementation of his policies and to ensure the welfare of his subjects.
Social and Administrative Reforms
Ashoka’s commitment to Dharma extended beyond religious and moral teachings to practical governance. He initiated several social and administrative reforms aimed at improving the lives of his people. These reforms included:
- Public Welfare: Ashoka built roads, hospitals, rest houses, and wells to facilitate trade, travel, and healthcare. He also promoted the cultivation of medicinal plants and herbs.
- Animal Welfare: Reflecting his Buddhist principles, Ashoka banned animal sacrifices and regulated the slaughter of animals. He also established veterinary clinics and promoted humane treatment of animals.
- Justice and Governance: Ashoka focused on ensuring justice and fairness in his administration. He instructed his officials to be accessible to the public and to resolve disputes with compassion and integrity.
- Religious Tolerance: Ashoka promoted religious harmony by respecting all religious traditions and encouraging interfaith dialogues. He provided patronage to Buddhist monasteries and supported other religious institutions.
Ashoka’s Role in the Spread of Buddhism
Ashoka played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism both within and beyond the Indian subcontinent. He convened the Third Buddhist Council around 250 BCE in Pataliputra, with the aim of purifying the Buddhist Sangha (community) and resolving doctrinal disputes. This council, presided over by the monk Moggaliputta Tissa, helped to codify Buddhist teachings and scriptures.
Ashoka’s efforts to propagate Buddhism extended to various regions through missionary activities. He sent emissaries to different parts of Asia, including Sri Lanka, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia, to spread Buddhist teachings. Notable among these missions was the one led by his son Mahinda and daughter Sanghamitta to Sri Lanka, which resulted in the establishment of Buddhism on the island and the planting of the sacred Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura.
Later Years and Legacy
Ashoka’s later years were marked by continued dedication to the principles of Dharma and efforts to maintain peace and harmony within his empire. He remained a patron of Buddhism, supporting the construction of stupas, viharas (monasteries), and other religious structures. Despite facing challenges and resistance from certain quarters, Ashoka’s policies laid the foundation for a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Ashoka’s reign is considered one of the most significant periods in Indian history, and his legacy has endured for centuries. His adoption of non-violence and ethical governance set a precedent for future rulers. The symbols associated with Ashoka, such as the Ashoka Chakra (a 24-spoke wheel) and the Lion Capital of Ashoka, continue to hold national and cultural significance in India. The Ashoka Chakra is featured at the center of the Indian national flag, and the Lion Capital is the national emblem of India.