King of India, 268-232 BCE
Converted to Buddhism
Ruled as Buddhist King
Spread Buddhism through missionaries to Syria, Egypt, Macedonia
Visited many Buddhist sites, erected many stupas
Started as a warring king
Witnessed death during last war after converting to Buddhism and then fully embraced Buddha's teachings
Dharma of King Asoka
All people equal, all should follow a moral code of compassion and sincerity
Respect the lives of all sentient beings
Animals, medicinal plants, tree-lined streets, wells, "rest areas"
Obedience to parents, teachers, superiors, elders
Proper treatment of friends, scholars, brahmans, sramanas, poor people, servants, slaves
Conduct of Government highest responsibility of a king
All problems should be reported to him immediately
Edicts
Asoka had many edicts carved into stone tablets and pillars located throughout India to enforce Buddhist teachings