[Solved] 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?

Q42. 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?

a. 1 and 2only

b. 2 and 3only

c. 3 only

d. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B

Buddhist Councils

Hinayana

• Hinayana is the orthodox, conservative school of Buddhism emphasizing on strict personal discipline.
• It is known as the ‘lesser vehicle’ as lesser amount of people can reach enlightenment through it.
• It does not believe in idol worship.
• It was patronized by Asoka.
• Hinayana scholars used Pali as a medium of propagation.
• Mahayana
• Mahayana is the liberal school of Buddhism which interprets Buddha’s teachings logically.
• It is known as the ‘greater vehicle’ as it promises spiritual liberation to a large number of people.
• This sect believes in Idol Worship.
• It was patronized by Kanishka.
• Mahayana scholars used Sanskrit as a medium of propagation.

Lokottarvadin whose philosophy was based on the concept of Lokottara Buddha or Supernatural Buddha. Hence, The Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of the Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.