Ashokavadana: 1 definition

Introduction:

Ashokavadana means something in Buddhism, Pali. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

In Buddhism

General definition (in Buddhism)

[«previous next»] — Ashokavadana in Buddhism glossary
Source: WikiPedia: Buddhism

The Ashokavadana ("Narrative of Ashoka") is a 2nd century CE text related to the legend of the Maurya Emperor Ashoka the Great. The legend was translated into Chinese by Fa Hien in 300 CE.

The Ashokavadana isone of the texts contained in the Divyavadana("Divine Narrative"), a compilation of several such narratives.

The Ashokavadana is an account of the birth and reign of King Ashoka. According to the legend, the birth of Ashoka was predicted by the Buddha, in the story, "The Gift of Dust":

"A hundred years after my death there will be an emperor named Ashoka in Pataliputra. He will rule one of the four continents and adorn Jambudvipa with my relics, building eighty four thousand stupas for the welfare of people. He will have them honored by gods and men. His fame will be widespread. His meritorious gift was just this: Jaya threw a handful of dust into the Tathaagatas bowl." Sayings of the Buddha according to the Ashokavadana

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