Civil Services Prep

Prelims 2020 · Ancient History · Question 42

With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:

  1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.
  2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.
  3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered the Mahayana Buddhism.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer

2 and 3 only

1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism. Sthaviravada was an early Buddhist school associated with the Hinayana/Theravada tradition, not Mahayana. Verdict: Incorrect.

2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism. Lokottaravada is recognized as a sub-school/offshoot of the Mahasanghika tradition. Verdict: Correct.

3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered the Mahayana Buddhism. Mahasanghikas emphasized the transcendental (lokottara) nature of the Buddha, and this helped shape later Mahayana ideas. Verdict: Correct.

Hence, statements 2 and 3 only are correct.

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