Buddhist Canon (Tripitaka)

Sutta Pitaka: Content and Buddha's Teachings

The Sutta Pitaka is the Buddhist scripture that contains the Buddha's discourses on ethics, social behavior, and spiritual doctrine.

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

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Which of the following Buddhist literature contains the Buddha's sermons on matters of ethics and doctrine?

[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2014]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


The Buddhist canon (Tripitaka) is divided into three 'baskets' with distinct thematic focuses.

Authentic Source Evidence


The Sutta Pitaka consists of over 10,000 suttas (discourses) delivered by the Buddha, covering the core spiritual philosophy and ethical codes of the Dhamma.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Vinaya Pitaka (A) deals with monastic rules/discipline.

  • Logic 2: Abhidhamma Pitaka (C) deals with metaphysical and psychological analysis of the teachings.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What are the five Nikayas of the Sutta Pitaka?"

    Digha, Majjhima, Samyutta, Anguttara, and Khuddaka Nikaya.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The Sutta Pitaka is the most accessible part of the canon for the lay person, providing practical ethical guidance through narratives and dialogues."

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