Q23 (c)

Criteria	Marks
Provides a thorough evaluation of how ONE significant person or school of thought, other than the Buddha, provides direction for a meaningful life for Buddhist adherents<br>Uses clear and relevant evidence to support the response<br>Integrates relevant and accurate terminology	7
Provides a sound evaluation of how ONE significant person or school of thought, other than the Buddha, provides direction for a meaningful life for Buddhist adherents<br>Uses relevant evidence to support the response<br>Integrates relevant terminology	5–6
Provides an explanation of how ONE significant person or school of thought, other than the Buddha, provides direction for a meaningful life for Buddhist adherents<br>Uses relevant evidence in the response<br>Uses some terminology	3–4
Outlines how ONE significant person or school of thought, other than the Buddha, provides direction for Buddhist adherents<br>May use evidence and/or terminology	2
Makes general statements about Buddhism	1

Answers could include:

• Asoka, the third emperor of the Maurya dynasty, is one of the most significant figures in the history of Buddhism, providing crucial direction for adherents, much like a map guides travellers on a journey toward a meaningful life.
• His personal conversion to Buddhism following the brutal Kalinga War marked a pivotal shift in his reign, and he became a model of Buddhist ethical leadership.
• Asoka’s Edicts, inscribed on pillars and rock faces across India, explicitly promoted key Buddhist values, such as ahimsa (non-violence), compassion (karuna), and respect for all living beings. These principles encouraged Buddhist followers to live harmoniously with others, fostering moral conduct in both personal and societal contexts.
• In addition to promoting ethical teachings, Asoka’s commitment to the Dhamma (the Buddhist path) helped integrate these values into governance.
• He established hospitals for both humans and animals, promoted religious tolerance, and supported Buddhist monasteries and education.
• His efforts in spreading the Buddha’s teachings across India and beyond (to Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia) helped establish a global community of Buddhists, further guiding adherents on the path to enlightenment.
• Asoka’s reign demonstrated how Buddhist principles could be applied in leadership and governance, thus offering adherents practical guidance for living a meaningful, ethical life in line with Buddhist ideals.