U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2010

Buddhist History

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The first Buddhist Council was held during the reign of-

Answer: B

Concept Shortly after the Buddha's death, the first council was convened to codify his oral teachings and establish the rules of the Sangha.

Explanation The council was held at the Saptaparni cave in Rajgir in 483 BCE, patronized by King Ajatshatru of the Haryanka dynasty.

Logical Breakup

Ajatshatru (B): Hosted the council immediately following the Buddha's Parinirvana.

Bimbisara (C): Was a contemporary of the Buddha but had passed away before the first council was convened.

Question

What was the main outcome of the First Buddhist Council?

Answer

Ananda recited the Sutta Pitaka (discourses) and Upali recited the Vinaya Pitaka (monastic rules), preserving the Dhamma for future generations.

The First Council marks the transition of Buddhism from an oral tradition led by a single teacher to a codified institutionalized religion.