Ashoka

Lore & Background

Ashoka's inscriptions state that during his eighth regnal year (c. 260 BCE), he conquered Kalinga after a brutal war. He subsequently devoted himself to the propagation of 'dhamma' or righteous conduct, the major theme of the edicts. Ashoka's edicts suggest that a few years after the Kalinga War, he was gradually drawn towards Buddhism. Buddhist legends credit Ashoka with establishing a large number of stupas, patronising the Third Buddhist council, supporting Buddhist missionaries, and making generous donations to the sangha.

Information about Ashoka comes from his inscriptions, other inscriptions that mention him or are possibly from his reign, and ancient literature, especially Buddhist texts. These sources often contradict each other. Ashoka's inscriptions are the earliest self-representations of imperial power in the Indian subcontinent, but they focus mainly on dhamma and provide little information about other aspects of the Maurya state or society. Some scholars view the inscriptions as propaganda by a politician aiming to present a favourable image.

Buddhist legends about Ashoka exist in several languages and can be traced to two primary traditions: the North Indian tradition (e.g., Divyavadana, Ashokavadana) and the Sri Lankan tradition (e.g., Dipavamsa, Mahavamsa). There are significant differences between the two traditions; for example, the Sri Lankan tradition emphasizes Ashoka's role in convening the Third Buddhist council and dispatching missionaries, while the North Indian tradition does not mention these events.

Reader's Guide

Ashoka's significance lies in his transformation from a conqueror to a proponent of non-violence and righteous conduct, as recorded in his Edicts. These inscriptions are the earliest self-representations of imperial power in the Indian subcontinent and provide key insights into early Buddhist statecraft. His patronage of Buddhism is credited with helping spread the religion across ancient Asia. Ashoka's existence as a historical emperor had almost been forgotten until the decipherment in the 19th century of sources written in the Brahmi script. Since then, he has held a reputation as one of the greatest Indian emperors. His legacy endures in modern India: the State Emblem of the Republic of India is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka, and the Ashoka Chakra is adopted at the centre of the National Flag of India. However, much of the information about Ashoka comes from Buddhist legends composed after his time, which often contradict each other and must be treated with caution. The exact date of his birth is uncertain, and his own inscriptions make no mention of his ancestors.

Did You Know?

• Ashoka's name literally means 'without sorrow' according to an Ashokavadana legend.
• The Edicts of Ashoka state that he conquered Kalinga during his eighth regnal year (c. 260 BCE).
• Ashoka's inscriptions mention his title Devanampiya ('Beloved of the Gods'), and the identification of Devanampiya and Ashoka as the same person is established by the Maski and Gujarra inscriptions.
• The State Emblem of the modern Republic of India is an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka.

Notable Quotes (Wikiquote)

"Using primarily Girnar version of the edicts, issued in 257 B.C." — Ashoka "in V.A. Smith 2009: 171) quoted from Malhotra, R., & Infinity Foundation (Princeton, N.J.). (2018). Being different: An Indian challenge to western universalism." — Ashoka "Durant, Will (1963). Our Oriental heritage. New York: Simon & Schuster." — Ashoka "Malhotra, R., & Infinity Foundation (Princeton, N.J.). (2018). Being different: An Indian challenge to western universalism." — Ashoka