History of Buddhism

Who organized the Second Buddhist Council? | Kalasoka

The Second Buddhist Council was organized by King Kalasoka and was held at Vaishali around 383 BCE.

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

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Second Buddhist- Council was organized by-

[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 1994]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Identifying the royal patrons of the four major Buddhist councils is critical for understanding the institutional growth of the religion.

Authentic Source Evidence


The Second Council was held at Vaishali in 383 BCE, exactly 100 years after the Buddha's death, under the patronage of King Kalasoka (Shishunaga Dynasty).

Analytical Breakdown


  • Kalasoka (B): Hosted the council to resolve the ten points of dispute in monastic rules.

  • Ajatashatru: 1st Council.

  • Ashoka: 3rd Council.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What was the significance of the Second Buddhist Council?"

    It saw the first major schism in Buddhism between the orthodox Sthaviravadins and the more liberal Mahasanghikas.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The Second Council reflects the growing regional diversity and the first ideological cracks within the Buddhist Sangha."

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