U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2013

Final Days of Buddha

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who was the last person to get enlightenment from Gautam Buddha?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The final moments of the Buddha's life (Mahaparinibbana) are recorded in detail, including his final act of teaching.

Explanation According to the Mahaparinibbana Sutta, a wandering ascetic named Subhadda approached the Buddha on his deathbed at Kusinara. After clearing his doubts, Subhadda was ordained and became an Arhat.

Logical Breakup
Subhadda (D): Specifically noted in scriptures as the 'last convert' or the last person enlightened by the Buddha himself.
Anand (A): He was the Buddha's personal attendant but only attained Arhatship *after* the Buddha's death.

Active Recall

Question

Where did the conversion of Subhadda take place?

Answer

It took place in the Sala grove of the Mallas in Kusinara, where the Buddha was about to pass away.

Core Insight

The story of Subhadda underscores the Buddha's commitment to teaching 'until his last breath,' symbolizing the compassion of the Dhamma.