UPPCS Prelims 2011

Buddhist Teachings and Travels

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Gautam Buddha gave the maximum sermons at which place?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept While Buddha traveled extensively, he had certain favored locations where he spent long periods during the Vassa (rainy season retreat).

Explanation Shravasti, the capital of the Kosala Kingdom, is where the Buddha is recorded to have delivered the largest number of discourses. He spent 25 rainy seasons here, many at the Jetavana monastery.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option B is correct. The sheer volume of followers in Kosala led to a higher frequency of teachings in its capital.
Logic 2: Although he attained enlightenment at Bodhgaya and first preached at Sarnath, Shravasti was his primary 'base' for preaching later in life.

Active Recall

Question

Who donated the famous Jetavana monastery in Shravasti?

Answer

Anathapindika, a wealthy merchant, purchased the land by covering it with gold coins and donated it to the Buddha.

Core Insight

The concentration of sermons in Shravasti highlights the success of Buddhism among the urban merchant and royal classes of the Kosala region.