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CHARACTER OF ASOKA
Buddhist church. Tradition affirms that a Buddhist Council was convened at Paṭaliputra in the seventeenth year of his reign for the purpose of suppressing heresy and making a compilation of the true Buddhist doctrine (Saddhammasamgaha). The Sārnāth Edict and its variants may perhaps be regarded as embodying the resolution of this Council.1
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Aśoka as a Builder.
The gift of cave dwellings to the Ajivika monks affords us a glimpse into another side of Aśoka's activity. As late as the fifth century A.D., sojourners in Pataliputra were struck with wonder at the magnificence of the emperor's architectural achievements. Tradition credits him with the construction of a splendid palace besides numerous relic mounds, monasteries and temples. He is actually known to have enlarged the stupa of Konakamana, a 'former Buddha' and a predecessor of Sakyamuni. He also set up. 'pillars of morality' Dharma-stambhas. Modern critics are eloquent in their praise of the polished surface of his columns and the fine workmanship of their crowning sculptures. 2
Character of Aśoka. His Success and Failure.
Aśoka is one of the most interesting personalities in the history of India. He had the energy of a Chandragupta, the versatility of a Samudragupta and the catholicity of an Akbar. He was tireless in his exertion and unflagging in his zeal-all directed to the promotion of the spiritual and material welfare of his people whom he looked upon as his children. His illustrious grandfather
1 Smith, Aśoka, third., ed. p. 55.
2
For Asoka's achievements in the domain of art, see Smith, HFAIC, 13, 57 ff.; Aśoka. pp. 107 ff.; CHI, 618 ff: Havell, ARI, 104 ff., etc.
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