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Uttarakhand P.C.S. Prelims 2005

Spread of Buddhism

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which Indian Buddhist monk had been sent to China in the first century A.D.?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Indian Buddhist missionaries played a vital role in transforming Buddhism into a pan-Asian religion during the Kushan era.

Explanation Nagarjuna (1st-2nd Century CE), a contemporary of Kanishka, is traditionally said to have visited China. He is the founder of the Madhyamika (Middle Way) school of Mahayana Buddhism.

Logical Breakup
Nagarjuna (D): Renowned as the 'Indian Einstein' for his theory of relativity in 'Madhyamika Karika'.
Ashvaghosha (B): A poet and vice-president of the 4th Council, but primarily stayed in Kanishka's court.
Vasumitra (C): Presided over the 4th Council.

Active Recall

Question

What is the core philosophy of Nagarjuna's school?

Answer

Sunyavada (The Doctrine of Emptiness), which argues that all things are 'empty' of an independent, permanent essence.

Core Insight

Nagarjuna's influence on Chinese and East Asian thought is unparalleled, making him the most important Indian philosopher after the Buddha himself.

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