READING COMPREHENSION 3

ASHOKA

Ashoka (died 232 BCE) was an Indian emperor. He reigned over most of what is now India. He was dedicated to the propagation of Buddhism across Asia and established monuments marking several significant sites in the life of Gautama Buddha.

One of the more enduring legacies of Ashoka was the model that he provided for the relationship between Buddhism and the state. Throughout southeastern Asia, the model of rulership embodied by Ashoka replaced the older notion of divine kingship. Under this newer model, the king sought to legitimize his rule not through descent from a divine source but by earning the approval of the Buddhist brotherhood. This development ultimately lead to a close association in many Southeast Asian countries between the monarchy and the religious hierarchy, an association that can still be seen today in the state-supported Buddhism of Thailand and the traditional role of the Thai king as both a religious and secular leader.

The reign of Ashoka could easily have disappeared into history as the ages passed by had he not left behind a record of his rule. The testimony of this wise king was discovered in the form of magnificently sculpted pillars and boulders, with a variety of actions and teachings etched into the stone. The wheel "Ashoka Chakra" from the base of one of these sculptures has been placed onto the center of the national flag of India.

1. Ashoka is known for establishing

A. separation of religion and state.
B. a close relationship between religion and state.
C. religious observances.
D. freedom of religion.

2. Ashoka believed that his power came from

A. himself alone.
B. support of his government.
C. a divine source.
D. approval of the Buddhist brotherhood.

3. The Latin origin of divine meant

A. to be inspired by a god.
B. to be blessed.
C. to be saved.
D. to be humble.

4. Propagation means

A. reproduction.
B. influencing.
C. the spreading of something.
D. orating.