Ashoka, also known as Ashoka the Great, was an emperor of the Maurya Dynasty who ruled over much of the Indian subcontinent from 268 to 232 BCE. He played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism throughout the region, and his principle of Dhamma was central to his efforts.

Principle of Dhamma

Dhamma can be roughly translated as "righteousness" or "duty," and it was at the core of Ashoka's philosophy. Ashoka believed that all people, regardless of their status, should uphold certain moral values and live a virtuous life. Some key elements of his principle of Dhamma include:

- Nonviolence: Ashoka renounced violence and encouraged his subjects to do the same. He declared that he would no longer be a conqueror, and instead sought to rule through moral authority.
- Social welfare: Ashoka believed that it was his duty as a ruler to provide for the welfare of his people. He built hospitals, dug wells, and established rest houses for travelers.
- Religious tolerance: Although Ashoka was a devout Buddhist, he believed in religious tolerance and encouraged his subjects to practice their own faiths.
- Respect for elders and parents: Ashoka believed that respecting one's elders and parents was crucial to maintaining social harmony.
- Kindness to animals: Ashoka was known for his compassion towards animals, and he declared that hunting was no longer allowed in his kingdom.

Promotion of Buddhism

Ashoka's own conversion to Buddhism was a significant factor in his promotion of the religion. He believed that Buddhism could serve as a unifying force for his diverse subjects, and he sought to spread its teachings throughout the land. Some of the ways in which Ashoka promoted Buddhism include:

- Building stupas: Ashoka constructed numerous stupas, or Buddhist shrines, throughout his kingdom. These structures were often built at sites associated with important events in the life of the Buddha.
- Sending missionaries: Ashoka sent Buddhist missionaries to various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.
- Inscribing edicts: Ashoka's edicts, which were inscribed on pillars and rocks throughout his kingdom, often contained Buddhist teachings. These edicts were intended to educate his subjects about the principles of Dhamma and encourage them to live a virtuous life.
- Patronage of Buddhist institutions: Ashoka provided financial support to Buddhist monasteries and other institutions, allowing them to thrive and spread their teachings.

In conclusion, Ashoka's principle of Dhamma and his promotion of Buddhism played a significant role in shaping the religious and cultural landscape of India. His legacy continues to inspire people today, and his teachings on nonviolence, social welfare, and religious tolerance remain relevant in our modern world.

••Four principles of Dhamma are:
1. Respect towards elders.
2. Generosity towards Brahmanas and those who renounced worldly life.
3. Treating slaves and servants with generosity.
4. Respect for other's religions and traditions.