Q. 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 Mahayana Buddhism.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer : b) 2 and 3 only
Question from UPSC Prelims 2020 GS Paper
Explanation:
Sthaviravadins and Mahayana Buddhism
The statement that Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism is incorrect. Sthaviravadins, also known as the School of the Elders, are associated with the early schools of Buddhism, which later evolved into Theravada Buddhism. Mahayana and Theravada are two major branches of Buddhism that developed after the initial split in the Buddhist community. The Sthaviravadins favored a more conservative view of Buddhist teachings, while Mahayana Buddhism developed from the Mahasanghikas, who had different beliefs.
Lokottaravadin Sect and Mahasanghika Sect
The Lokottaravadin sect was indeed an offshoot of the Mahasanghika sect. The Mahasanghikas were one of the early schools that split from the original Sangha due to doctrinal differences. The Lokottaravadins, within the Mahasanghika school, believed in the supramundane nature of the Buddha, emphasizing his transcendence above the mundane world. This belief contributed to the development of Mahayana Buddhism.
Deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas and Mahayana Buddhism
The deification of the Buddha by the Mahasanghikas played a significant role in fostering the development of Mahayana Buddhism. They introduced the concept of the Buddha as a transcendent and almost divine figure, departing from the earlier portrayal of the Buddha as a more human figure. This ideal of the Buddha, along with the emphasis on bodhisattvas and the development of new sutras, formed the foundation of Mahayana Buddhism. The Mahasanghikas’ views contributed to the Mahayana tradition’s emphasis on the universal potential for Buddhahood and the compassionate goal of saving all sentient beings.
