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UPSC CSE Prelims 2001, Paper I

History of Buddhism

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who among the following presided over the Buddhist Council held during the reign of Kanishka in Kashmir?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Buddhist Councils were organized to codify teachings and resolve sectarian differences. The 4th council marked a major turning point in Buddhist history.

Explanation Chinese and Tibetan records confirm that Vasumitra was the president, while the famous poet Ashvaghosha served as the vice-president.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Moggaliputta Tissa presided over the 3rd council (Ashoka).
Logic 2: Vasumitra led the deliberations that resulted in the 'Mahavibhasha' (commentary) and formalized the Mahayana sect.

Active Recall

Question

What was the most significant outcome of the 4th Buddhist Council?

Answer

The formal split of Buddhism into Mahayana and Hinayana (Theravada) sects and the use of Sanskrit for Buddhist texts.

Core Insight

Vasumitra's leadership solidified the Sarvastivada school's influence, which heavily shaped the future of Buddhism in Central Asia and China.

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