Significance of King Asoka
King Asoka is described in Theravada as a significant figure who played a crucial role in the promotion of Buddhism by excavating and disseminating the Buddha's relics across the Southern Island Continent. Additionally, he is portrayed as a ruler with authority, particularly in a story where he shows interest in the karavika bird and commands its capture. This dual depiction highlights his influence on both Buddhist practices and the exertion of power.
Synonyms: Emperor ashoka, Ashoka the great, Ashoka maurya
In Finnish: Kuningas Asoka; In Spanish: Rey Asoka
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'King Asoka'
King Asoka in Buddhism represents a powerful ruler showcasing authority through the karavika bird narrative, while also acting as a pivotal figure who excavated and disseminated Buddha's relics, greatly enhancing the religion's influence.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A later ruler who excavated and spread the Buddha's relics across the Southern Island Continent, significantly promoting Buddhism.[1] (2) The ruler in the story, who is interested in the karavika bird and commands its capture, showcasing his authority.[2]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The ruler who lavishly supported the Buddhadhamma, leading to heretics joining the Buddhist sangha for material benefits.[3] (2) A historical figure whose interaction with Moggaliputtatissa thera is mentioned, highlighting the debate on moral purity and kammic actions.[4]
The concept of King Asoka in local and regional sources
King Asoka is depicted as a ruler who organized efforts to explore and understand infrastructure, as seen in the employment of men to assess the depth of ladders, showcasing his commitment to governance and public works.
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) A ruler who, as a lad, met Sakya Buddha; he later became an iron-wheel king who ruled over Jambudvipa.[5] (2) A historical figure who wished to destroy and replace the existing towers.[6] (3) The ruler who reigned in the town of Pataliputra and commissioned the construction of the royal palace.[7] (4) The ruler who employed men to dig and examine the depth of the ladders.[8]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) The text refers to the Edicts of this King, providing insight into his reign and the history of the period.[9]