Who among the following was the Greek king of Syria mentioned in Asokan edict?

PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
WBCS Prelims 2022

Answer

Antiochus II Theos

Explanation

In Ashoka's Major Rock Edict XIII, he mentions the Greek king of Syria, Antiochus II Theos, as one of the Hellenistic rulers to whom he sent his missions of Dhamma.

Key Points

  • Mentioned in Ashoka's Major Rock Edict XIII.
  • Antiochus II belonged to the Seleucid dynasty of Syria.
  • The edict proves the international diplomatic outreach of Ashoka.

Additional Information

  • Other kings mentioned include Ptolemy II (Egypt), Antigonus Gonatas (Macedonia), Magas (Cyrene), and Alexander (Epirus).
  • Ashoka referred to himself as 'Devanampiya Piyadassi' in his inscriptions.
History Maurya Empire Hard