Ashoka the Great (c. 304–232 BCE) was the third emperor of the Mauryan Dynasty and one of the most remarkable rulers in Indian history. His reign, which lasted from approximately 268 BCE to 232 BCE, is noted for the significant cultural and political achievements that took place under his rule, as well as for his profound transformation following the Kalinga War.
1. Early Life and Ascension to the Throne
- Ashoka was born to Bindusara, the second Mauryan emperor, and was one of his many sons. Initially, he was not the heir apparent and spent much of his early life in military campaigns, which gave him experience in warfare and administration.
- After the death of his father, Ashoka ascended to the throne around 268 BCE. His rise to power is said to have been marked by intrigue and political struggles, possibly involving the elimination of rivals within the royal family.
- Ashoka began his reign with a focus on military conquest and the expansion of the Mauryan Empire. He initially followed in the footsteps of his forefathers, seeking to extend the empire’s borders, including waging a brutal war against the Kalinga region (modern-day Orissa) in the Kalinga War (c. 261 BCE).
2. The Kalinga War and Its Aftermath
- The Kalinga War was a pivotal event in Ashoka’s life and reign. Kalinga (modern-day Orissa) had long been an independent region, and Ashoka sought to annex it to expand his empire.
- The war was marked by extreme brutality. 100,000 people were killed, and many more were wounded or exiled. The scale of the destruction and the human suffering deeply affected Ashoka.
Ashoka’s Conversion to Buddhism:
- After witnessing the aftermath of the Kalinga War and the immense loss of life, Ashoka was deeply troubled and repented his actions. According to Ashoka’s own accounts in the Ashokan Edicts, he became filled with remorse for the violence and sought a path of peace, morality, and spiritual redemption.
- Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism is often attributed to this experience. He adopted the teachings of Buddha, which emphasized non-violence (Ahimsa), compassion, and respect for all living beings.
- Ashoka’s Dhamma (meaning “moral law” or “righteousness”) became the guiding principle of his governance. He sought to govern with justice, compassion, and respect for all religions, focusing on the welfare of his people.
3. Ashoka’s Dhamma and Policy of Tolerance
- Dhamma, as followed by Ashoka, was not a religion in itself but a set of moral and ethical principles that sought to foster peace, harmony, and social welfare.
- Ashoka’s Dhamma emphasized:
- Non-violence (Ahimsa): Ashoka adopted and promoted the principles of Ahimsa, encouraging his subjects to refrain from violence, especially towards animals, and to live peaceful lives.
- Tolerance of All Religions: Ashoka believed in the tolerance of all religions and wanted to foster respect for different faiths. He encouraged people to practice their own religions and live peacefully with others, regardless of belief.
- Compassion and Welfare: The emperor encouraged acts of charity, kindness, and compassion towards others, especially towards the poor, sick, and elderly.
- Respect for parents, teachers, and elders: Ashoka emphasized the importance of respecting family bonds and the elderly in society.
- Social Justice: He worked to ensure justice and fairness in the empire, advocating for the fair treatment of all subjects, regardless of their social status.
4. The Ashokan Edicts
One of Ashoka’s most significant contributions to Indian history is the Ashokan Edicts, a series of inscriptions carved on stone pillars, rock faces, and caves throughout his empire. These inscriptions provide insights into his policies, governance, and the moral principles he upheld.
Types of Edicts:
- Major Rock Edicts:
- These are among the most important of Ashoka’s inscriptions, found at various locations across India and beyond. They include moral directives, ethical guidelines, and Ashoka’s personal reflections.
- Some of the Major Rock Edicts highlight his efforts to promote Buddhism, while others are more focused on the principles of Dhamma and the imperial governance that he followed.
- Minor Rock Edicts:
- These are smaller in scale and found in remote locations. They often describe Ashoka’s efforts to spread his messages and promote Dhamma to his subjects.
- Pillar Edicts:
- The most famous of these is the Lions’ Pillar at Sarnath, where Ashoka proclaimed his conversion to Buddhism. The inscription on the pillars emphasizes Ashoka’s moral code and his determination to spread the teachings of Buddha across his empire.
- Other pillar inscriptions also mention Ashoka’s administrative reforms and his desire to be seen as a benevolent and just ruler.
Notable Ashokan Edicts:
- Rock Edict I: Proclaims Ashoka’s policy of religious tolerance and his rejection of the caste system, promoting equality for all people.
- Rock Edict II: Describes Ashoka’s effort to spread Buddhism and his recognition of its principles.
- Rock Edict XIII: Describes Ashoka’s remorse for the Kalinga War and his desire for peace and spiritual development.
- Pillar Edict I: Emphasizes the promotion of righteousness (Dhamma), moral conduct, and the importance of compassion.
- Pillar Edict VII: Talks about Ashoka’s efforts to stop animal sacrifices and promote kindness towards animals.
5. Ashoka’s Efforts in Public Welfare
In addition to promoting Dhamma, Ashoka’s reign is known for the welfare measures he implemented to improve the lives of his subjects. These included:
- Building infrastructure: Ashoka built a network of roads, rest houses, wells, and hospitals for both humans and animals. His interest in public health and the welfare of his subjects was revolutionary for the time.
- Promotion of education: Ashoka encouraged education and the spread of knowledge, particularly in the form of religious teachings and moral conduct.
- Buddhist Monasteries: Ashoka built many Buddhist monasteries and stupas, and he supported Buddhist missionaries to spread Buddhism not only within India but also to Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and other regions.
6. Ashoka’s Legacy and Decline of Dhamma
Ashoka’s reign marked the zenith of the Mauryan Empire. His efforts in spreading Buddhism and promoting moral governance had a lasting impact on India and the broader world.
- Spread of Buddhism: Ashoka played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism across India and even beyond, sending missions to Sri Lanka, Greece, and Central Asia.
- Cultural Legacy: The Ashokan Edicts, with their clear moral directives and religious tolerance, left a lasting legacy on Indian governance, inspiring rulers and thinkers for centuries.
However, after Ashoka’s death, the Mauryan Empire began to decline, and his policy of Dhamma gradually lost prominence in the empire. Over time, the focus shifted to more political and military concerns, and the Mauryan dynasty eventually fell around 180 BCE.
Despite this, Ashoka’s legacy as a ruler who prioritized peace, compassion, and ethical governance has been widely remembered and celebrated throughout history. His commitment to non-violence, Buddhism, and tolerance continues to inspire generations of leaders and thinkers.
Conclusion
Ashoka the Great remains one of India’s most iconic rulers, not just for his military conquests, but for his profound transformation from a ruthless conqueror to a benevolent ruler who embraced Buddhism and promoted moral governance. His commitment to Dhamma, the welfare of his people, and the spread of Buddhist principles made him one of the most revered figures in Indian history, and his edicts continue to be a symbol of compassionate leadership and tolerance.