Great Conqueror: Ashoka the Great

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Greetings Enlightened Samurai Readers,

In this edition of Great Conquerors, we journey to ancient India to explore the story of Ashoka the Great—a bloody conqueror who transformed into a devoted champion of peace.

Born around 304 BCE, Ashoka was the grandson of Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Maurya Empire. From a young age, he demonstrated remarkable skill as a warrior, showing both ambition and drive. His education in warfare and statecraft prepared him well for rulership. When his father, King Bindusara, passed away, a fierce power struggle erupted among his sons. After years of conflict, Ashoka emerged victorious, ultimately being crowned emperor of the Maurya Empire.

As emperor, Ashoka embarked on his conquest of India, expanding the Maurya Empire to become the largest indigenous empire the subcontinent had ever seen. For this, he was bestowed the title of Chakravartin (King of Kings).

However, for The Enlightened Samurai, Ashoka's story is significant not for his conquests, but for his personal redemption and pursuit of enlightenment that followed his ruthless conquests.

The city of Taxila attempted to rebel against the Mauryan Empire during the reign of King Bindusara. In response, the young Ashoka was dispatched to crush the uprising. with deadly force, he launched a rapid incursion into the city, overwhelming the rebels and quickly reestablishing imperial control. His desire for conquest would only grow from here.

Personal Redemption

Expanding his dominion across India came at a tremendous cost. Hundreds of thousands perished in his conquests, a reality Ashoka ignored until the tipping point: the Battle of Kalinga. This conflict claimed over one hundred thousand lives and caused widespread devastation. The suffering he witnessed in its aftermath shook him to his core, filling him with profound sorrow.

This moment of deep introspection led to Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism and set him on a path of redemption. Embracing this new way of life, he adopted the policy of Dharma (righteousness or moral duty). This policy promoted morality, non-violence, religious tolerance, kindness to all living creatures, welfare measures, and peaceful coexistence with neighbouring kingdoms.

For Ashoka, the path of Dharma was the only way to atone for his past wrongdoings and live a compassionate life.

The Value 

True strength often lies not in domination but in compassion—for oneself, for others, and for the world. It is found in the realization that one is already strong and capable, without the need to dominate others or chase power. This understanding of one’s own unshakeable strength naturally fosters compassion.

Such a profound realization often arises from a moment of introspection, one that can change the course of a person's life, leading to growth and enlightenment.

Pursuit of Enlightenment

Ashoka felt a deep responsibility to spread the path of Dharma to his subjects. To fulfill this mission, he erected stone pillars across his empire, each inscribed with teachings on moral duty, compassion, and righteousness. These pillars became enduring symbols of his commitment to the welfare and spiritual upliftment of his people.

Through this act Ashoka shifted his legacy from that of a ruthless conqueror to a wise and benevolent ruler, remembered for his compassion and dedication to peace.

The Value

Those on the journey of spiritual enlightenment often feel a deep need to give to others. In the case of Ashoka, he desired to share the path of moral rightness and guide others along it. This journey of personal and spiritual growth is defined by an internal desire to share your unique gift with the world. These gifts come in many forms, and understanding what yours is becomes essential.

Furthermore, Ashoka teaches us that true leadership is not about wielding authority but about guiding those under your care toward a righteous and virtuous path. Leaving a positive imprint on your subjects is a far greater legacy than a hundred conquests.