Schools of Buddhism

Buddhist Sects: Sthaviravadins vs Mahasanghikas Guide

The Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of the Mahasanghikas. Their practice of deifying the Buddha directly influenced the development of Mahayana Buddhism.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

Archived: 2020

Updated: 5 Jan 2026

Exam Year

2020

Evidence Source

Link ↗

With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.
2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.
3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered Mahayana Buddhism.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[UPSC CSE Prelims 2020]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Following the Second Buddhist Council, the Sangha split into two major groups: the conservative Sthaviravadins and the more liberal Mahasanghikas.

Authentic Source Evidence

Historical records from the 4th Council and early texts confirm that Sthaviravadins were the precursors to Theravada (Hinayana), while Mahasanghikas developed the concept of the 'Lokottara' (supramundane) Buddha.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Statement 1 is incorrect. Sthaviravadins belong to the Hinayana (Theravada) tradition, not Mahayana.

Logic 2: Statement 2 is correct. The Lokottaravadins were a specific school under the Mahasanghikas who believed the Buddha was transcendental.

Logic 3: Statement 3 is correct. By treating Buddha as a divine, eternal being (deification), the Mahasanghikas paved the way for Mahayana's worship-based practices.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What does the term 'Lokottara' signify in Buddhist sect history?"

It means 'beyond the world', referring to the belief that the Buddha was not a mere human but a supramundane being who only appeared human.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The rise of the Mahasanghikas represents the first major internal challenge to orthodoxy, shifting focus from monastic discipline to theological expansion."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Theravada 5 Mahayana 6

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