Buddhist History

Who hosted the First Buddhist Council? | Ajatshatru

The first Buddhist Council was held in Rajgir under the patronage of King Ajatshatru in 483 BCE.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class 11 - Ancient India (R.S. Sharma)

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The first Buddhist Council was held during the reign of-

[U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2010]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Shortly after the Buddha's death, the first council was convened to codify his oral teachings and establish the rules of the Sangha.

Authentic Source Evidence


The council was held at the Saptaparni cave in Rajgir in 483 BCE, patronized by King Ajatshatru of the Haryanka dynasty.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Ajatshatru (B): Hosted the council immediately following the Buddha's Parinirvana.

  • Bimbisara (C): Was a contemporary of the Buddha but had passed away before the first council was convened.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What was the main outcome of the First Buddhist Council?"

    Ananda recited the Sutta Pitaka (discourses) and Upali recited the Vinaya Pitaka (monastic rules), preserving the Dhamma for future generations.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The First Council marks the transition of Buddhism from an oral tradition led by a single teacher to a codified institutionalized religion."

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