The song "Emperor Ashoka" by Mason Jennings tells the story of Ashoka Maurya, an Indian emperor from the state of Orissa. It describes how he conquered the kingdom of Kalinga, resulting in the deaths of many men. However, Ashoka was deeply affected by the violence and made a vow to never fight again. As Ashoka's power grew across his empire, he prioritized love over violence and sought to resolve conflicts with silence. He introduced new policies and appointed overseers of the law in every corner of his kingdom. These policies aimed to befriend his enemies and create a more peaceful society. The lyrics also highlight the unity and support from the people, who sang songs praising the positive changes brought about by Ashoka's rule. The song emphasizes the importance of raising up things that bring us together and putting down weapons that divide us. The chorus repeats the statement, "I ain't gonna study this world no more," which can be interpreted as the singer's refusal to engage with the negative aspects of the world and a commitment to peace. The song also includes the line, "I'm gonna lay down my sword and shield, down by the riverside," reinforcing this idea of abandoning violence and embracing tranquility. The lyrics end with a wish for strength, fullness of heart, and a long life. The repetition of "oh don't cry no more" conveys a sense of comfort, suggesting that with Ashoka's rule, people can find peace and harmony. Overall, the song "Emperor Ashoka" praises Ashoka Maurya's transformation from a conqueror to a ruler focused on peace and love. It highlights the era of imperialist Buddhist rule under his reign and encourages listeners to abandon violence and embrace a more compassionate way of living.
