The Great Emperor Ashoka Maurya Quotes

The Great Emperor Ashoka Maurya

Emperor Ashoka the Great (r. 268–232 BCE) was one of India’s most powerful and influential rulers. He was the third emperor of the Maurya Dynasty and is best known for his transformation from a ruthless conqueror to a benevolent ruler after embracing Buddhism. His reign marked an era of peace, prosperity, and religious tolerance in ancient India.

Early Life & Ascension to the Throne

• Born around 304 BCE, Ashoka was the son of Emperor Bindusara and grandson of Chandragupta Maurya (founder of the Maurya Empire).

• He was a skilled warrior and administrator, gradually rising in power within the empire.

• After a brutal struggle for succession, he became emperor around 268 BCE.

The Kalinga War & Ashoka’s Transformation

• In 261 BCE, Ashoka waged war against the kingdom of Kalinga (present-day Odisha).

• Though victorious, he was deeply disturbed by the massive loss of life and suffering caused by the war.

• This led him to renounce violence and embrace Buddhism, dedicating his life to Dharma (righteousness).

Ashoka’s Administration & Welfare Policies

• Ashoka ruled with compassion, justice, and welfare-oriented policies.

• He built hospitals, roads, rest houses, and irrigation systems for the well-being of his people.

• He appointed Dhamma Mahamatras (officials) to promote moral values and social welfare.

Promotion of Buddhism & Religious Tolerance

• Ashoka actively promoted Buddhism but encouraged religious tolerance for all faiths.

• He sent missionaries to Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, Egypt, Greece, and Central Asia to spread Buddhism.

• His famous Rock Edicts and Pillar Inscriptions (written in Prakrit, Greek, and Aramaic) emphasized non-violence, truth, and ethical governance.

Ashoka’s Legacy

• Considered one of the greatest rulers in world history, Ashoka's principles influenced Indian culture and governance for centuries.

• His Lion Capital of Ashoka (at Sarnath) was adopted as India’s national emblem.

• The Ashoka Chakra (24-spoke wheel) in the Indian national flag represents his ideals of Dharma.

• His model of non-violence and ethical rule continues to inspire leaders and thinkers worldwide.

Death & Decline of the Maurya Empire

• Ashoka passed away around 232 BCE, and after his death, the Maurya Empire gradually declined.

• However, his teachings and contributions remain immortal in Indian and world history.

Ashoka’s reign symbolizes the power of transformation, compassion, and wisdom, making him The Great Emperor of India.

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Here are some powerful quotes and edicts attributed to Emperor Ashoka Maurya, reflecting his wisdom, compassion, and dedication to Dharma (righteousness):

1. On Peace and Non-Violence

"All men are my children. What I desire for my own children, I desire for all men."

"One must not exalt one's creed discrediting all others, but one should honor other creeds for various reasons. By so doing, one helps his own creed to grow and benefits the creeds of others."

"The only victory that brings peace is the victory of Dharma."

2. On Dharma (Righteousness)

"The greatest conquest is not by war, but by the conquest of the heart through Dharma."

"The basis of all religions is compassion, kindness, and self-control."

"He who does reverence to his own sect while disparaging the sects of others wholly from attachment to his own, with intent to enhance the splendor of his own sect, in reality, by such conduct inflicts the severest injury on his own sect."

3. On Governance and Welfare

"The welfare of the people is my welfare, and whatever pleases them pleases me too."

"The king should rule for the happiness of his people, just as a father cares for his children."

"I have appointed officials to oversee the welfare of people, to ensure justice and righteousness prevail."

4. On Religious Tolerance

"All religions should reside everywhere, for all of them desire self-control and purity of heart."

"Contact (between religions) is good. One should listen to and respect the doctrines professed by others."

5. On Self-Improvement

"One should strive to conquer oneself rather than winning a thousand battles."

"A man must cultivate patience, truthfulness, and a gentle nature to attain true success."

These quotes are inspired by Ashoka’s Edicts, inscribed on pillars and rocks across his vast empire. They reflect his transformation from a ruthless conqueror to a compassionate ruler after embracing Buddhism.