[Solved] Emergence of Mahayana Buddhism under King Kanishka

'Mahayana' sect and Buddhism emerged during the reign of-

[UPSC CSE Prelims 1993]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Mahayana Buddhism (The Greater Vehicle) became a distinct sect around the 1st century CE, shifting focus toward the worship of Buddha as a deity and the Bodhisattva ideal.

Authentic Source Evidence

Historical records indicate that the Fourth Buddhist Council was held in Kashmir under the patronage of the Kushan Emperor Kanishka. It was here that the formal split between the conservative Hinayana (Theravada) and the progressive Mahayana sects was solidified.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option D is correct. Kanishka provided the royal patronage necessary for the Mahayana transition, which included the use of Sanskrit and the creation of Buddha images.

Logic 2: Ajatshatru (A) oversaw the First Council. Ashoka (B) was the patron of the Third Council (Theravada focus). Dharmapala (C) was a much later Pala ruler who supported Vajrayana.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"How did Mahayana differ from early Buddhist thought?"

Mahayana introduced the deification of Buddha and the concept that all beings possess Buddha-nature and can become Bodhisattvas.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Kanishka's reign transformed Buddhism from a local monastic order into a major world religion capable of spreading across the Silk Road into China."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Fourth Buddhist Council 6 Bodhisattva 3

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