Question

Although he had been one of the fiercest warrior kings in India, King Ashoka became disillusioned with violence and accepted the teachings of Buddhism. He also opened one of the first animal hospitals in India. What conclusions can be drawn about how Ashoka's attitude toward animals had most likely changed?

1) King Ashoka wanted to experiment with horses and elephants used in war to create the healthiest resources possible.
2) King Ashoka believed that all life was sacred once he adopted Buddhism and wanted to preserve even animal life.
3) King Ashoka's establishment of the animal hospital shows that he had put away religion in favor of science.
4) King Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism had no effect on his decision to open animal hospitals in India.

Answer 1

After converting to Buddhism, King Ashoka's actions, such as opening animal hospitals, indicate he began to see all life as sacred and sought to protect and preserve it, in alignment with Buddhist teachings.

Step-by-step explanation:

After experiencing the immense bloodshed of the battle of Kalinga around 262 BCE, King Ashoka underwent a profound transformation. He converted to Buddhism, a religion that emphasized non-violence (Ahisma) and compassion for all living beings. His subsequent actions, including the establishment of animal hospitals, were indicative of a drastic change in his attitude towards animals and life. This change was consistent with Buddhist teachings that regard all life as sacred.

The most accurate conclusion about how Ashoka's attitude toward animals had most likely changed would be that King Ashoka believed that all life was sacred once he adopted Buddhism and wanted to preserve even animal life. It reflects his broader commitment to the welfare of all his subjects, adherence to Buddhist principles, and his dedication to creating a more benevolent and ethical society.