| Asoka Priyadarsin |
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| Temples Of India |
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ASOKAS AS A PREACHER |
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| The Law of Piety to which
reference is made quite often in his edicts is the law of Buddha. It lays
down certain principles, the observance of which bestows on the followers, a blissful and sinless
life. It exhorts every one to exercise complete control over passions,
first. Secondly, it enjoins on the followers to cultivate purity of life, in
thought and action, with a particular emphasis on toleration. Thirdly, it
forbids the killing of any living creature, small or big, for any purpose, whatsoever. It
detests causing injury to any living being. It advocates Ahimsa first and last.
Lastly, it lays emphasis on the
proper development of character that extends reverence and decorum to parents, teachers,
ascetics, relatives and friends. And a generous attitude to servants and
slaves. Above all, it gives credence to truthfulness. Thus, his excellent
doctrine embodies all the cardial virtues, like compassion, veneration, non-violence,
truthfulness, gentleness, and lastly saintliness. If compressed further, it
means self-control, sanctity of life, and selfless action. The commendable feature discarnable
in it is, there is no force or compulsion for implementation. |
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