Question

Why did Ashoka decry violence in 261 BC and turn to Buddhism?

Answer 1

Small communities of monks and =nuns, known as =bhikkus, =sprung up along the roads that Buddha traveled. Devoted to his teachings, they dressed in yellow and wandered the countryside to meditate quietly. For almost 200 years, these humble disciples were overshadowed by the dominant Hindu believers. But in the 3rd century B.C.E., several ambitious leaders built the expansive Mauryan empire and fought many blo;ody battles were fought to extend its boundaries of control.

One king, named Ashoka, was so troubled by the effects of the conquests on humanity that he converted to Buddhism. Adopting a code of nonviolence, he renounced all warfare and incorporated principles of Buddhism in his ruling practices.

Answer 2

Small communities of monks and =nuns, known as =bhikkus, =sprung up along the roads that Buddha traveled. Devoted to his teachings, they dressed in yellow and wandered the countryside to meditate quietly. For almost 200 years, these humble disciples were overshadowed by the dominant Hindu believers. But in the 3rd century B.C.E., several ambitious leaders built the expansive Mauryan empire and fought many blo;ody battles were fought to extend its boundaries of control.