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R.A.S./R.T.S. Prelims 2012

Buddhist Canonical Literature

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

'Tripitaka' texts are related to which religion?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept The Tripitaka (literally 'Three Baskets') is the oldest and most complete collection of Buddhist scriptures, originally transmitted orally and later written in Pali.

Explanation It consists of: 1. Vinaya Pitaka (Monastic rules), 2. Sutta Pitaka (Teachings/Sermons of Buddha), and 3. Abhidhamma Pitaka (Philosophical analysis of teachings).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option B is correct. The Tripitaka is the foundational authority for all branches of Buddhism, particularly the Theravada school.
Logic 2: Vedic religion (A) uses the Vedas; Jainism (C) uses the Agamas; and Shaivism (D) uses the Agamas/Puranas.

Active Recall

Question

What is the primary difference between the Sutta and Abhidhamma Pitaka?

Answer

The Sutta Pitaka contains the general sermons of Buddha, while the Abhidhamma Pitaka provides a highly technical, scholastic analysis of those same teachings.

Core Insight

The Tripitaka serves as a 'time capsule' of the Buddha's original message, organized and standardized by the early Buddhist Councils.

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