Prelims 2016 · Ancient History · Question 75
With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:<br/>1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism.<br/>2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment.<br/>3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it.<br/><br/>Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer
2 and 3 only
1. Incorrect. The Bodhisattva ideal is central to Mahayana Buddhism, not Hinayana/Theravada, which emphasizes the Arhat ideal.
2. Correct. A Bodhisattva is one who seeks enlightenment and is marked by compassion for all beings.
3. Correct. In Mahayana thought, a Bodhisattva postpones final nirvana/liberation to help all sentient beings attain liberation.
Hence, statements 2 and 3 only are correct.