Hints of Martiality in Buddhist Sources in the Pāli Language: Reflections on the Basis of Some Historical-Artistic Elements from Gandhāra

This article will discuss some early references to the martial arts as they appear in the Pāli canon from a historical perspective. At first, a passage involving fighting shows occurring during festivals will be analysed, highlighting the early Buddhist attitude connected with its ascetic background. Then, a possible shift in attitude that occurred during the reign of Aśoka (III century BCE) will be discussed, and some evidence from Gandhāran Buddhism will be introduced, highlighting a developed stage in which Buddhism has integrated into society, negotiating values and coming to terms with foreign elements, such as symposia, bacchanals and martial arts. Eventually, a Pāli account which includes a sympotic party and an early reference to martial arts practiced within an Indian Buddhist monastery will be discussed.