U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2000

Buddhist Councils

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

First Buddhist Conference after the death of Buddha was presided over by:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Following the Mahaparinirvana of the Buddha, the Sangha needed to codify his teachings to prevent sectarian drift.

Explanation Buddhist chronicles record that Mahakashyapa (the senior-most monk) presided over the First Council held at the Saptaparni cave in Rajagriha.

Logical Breakup

Mahakashyapa (A): Chosen for his spiritual seniority and authority.

Ajatashatru (C): He was the royal patron/host of the council, not the presiding monk.

Nagasen (D): Known for the 'Milindapanha', lived much later during the Indo-Greek period.

Active Recall

Question

What were the two main Pitakas compiled in this council?

Answer

The Sutta Pitaka (discourses recited by Ananda) and the Vinaya Pitaka (rules recited by Upali).

Core Insight

The leadership of Mahakashyapa ensured that the Sangha remained a unified and disciplined entity during its first major crisis of succession.

First Buddhist Conference after the death of Buddha was presided over by:

Solution & Analysis

Active Recall

Core Insight

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