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Posted by fascinating (U1944795) on Sunday, 12th June 2011
Have you heard of King Ashoka of India? He ruled India in the 3rd century BC. In early life he was a conqueror but after one battle he became so disgusted at the loss of life that he turned against violence. He practised Buddhism and started ruling for the benefit of his subjects, putting up roadside shelters, importing and growing medicinal herbs. His most (to me) remarkable edict was against cruelty to animals.
Yep, sounds like a helluva guy.
Mmmm - he didn't start that way though - he had a reign of terror first so perhaps it was easier for him to introduce the tenets of his conversion onto a subdued people - possibly in fear that he might have a relapse.
For all of that, the change in him was remarkable and the effects of it long lasting. Though knowing little of it, I think there is not a militant side to Bhuddism as there is in other major faiths.
Regards, P.
Not sure that one can say Buddhism is immune to groups espousing violence as a means of promoting their beliefs. One could look at the role of the Ikko Buddhist Monks during the Sengoku period of Japanese history or for a more recent example the bellicose nature of many Buddhists during Sri Lanka's recent struggles against the Tamil Tigers.
Did you catch this when it was broadcast?
Thank you , Gil,
for once I could catch the I player in Belgium. Or is it only the TV I player we can't receive? And the item was reasonable "quiet" in comparison with some TV Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ documentaries that I saw recently as about the new method of archaeology by infrared survey, commented a few days ago on this board.
For the rest I wanted to comment on Ashoka, Indian history and all that, but it is all about modern geopolitics and that is out of topic overhere.
Kind regards and with esteem,
Paul.
Glad to have been of service, Paul.
Regardss
Gil
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