[Buddha-l] Buddhism & War

[L.S. Cousins]

But let us note that this account dates from at least 500 years after 
the event. There is no particular reason to believe any of this.

Lance

>Hi,
>   
>   It is said that there is no war in Buddhism.
>   
>   Chapter 25, Mahavamsa, we find:
>
>Arrived at Mahiyangana he overpowered the Damila Chatta. When he had 
>slain the Damilas in that very place he came then to Ambatitthaka, 
>which had a trench leading from the river, and (conquered) the 
>Damila Titthamba; fighting the crafty and powerful foe for four 
>months he (finally) overcame him by cunning,' since he placed his 
>mother in his view. When the mighty man marching thence down (the 
>river) had conquered seven mighty Damila princes in one day and had 
>established peace, he gave over the booty to his troops. Therefore 
>is (the place)called Khemäräma.
>http://www.vipassana.com/resources/mahavamsa/mhv25.php
>
>   Apparently it is legitimate to use someone's mother as a hostage 
>in Buddhism. No?
>   
>   Dutthagamani is reported also to have said:
>"Not for the joy of sovereignty is this toil of mine, my striving 
>(has been) ever to establish the doctrine of the Sambuddha."
>http://www.vipassana.com/resources/mahavamsa/mhv25.php
>
>   I am interested in how would Buddhists explain theses passages to 
>non-Buddhist/skeptics?
>
>   Thanks,
>   Rahula