Buddhism in the Sultanate Period | Vajrayana Prominence
Vajrayana Buddhism was the prominent form of the faith during the early Sultanate period, particularly in the academic and religious centers of Eastern India.
Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2013
Evidence Source
UPSC Level
Which form of Buddhism was prominent during the Sultanate period?
[Jharkhand P.C.S. Prelims 2013]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
In the centuries preceding and during the early Sultanate, Buddhism in India had largely evolved into a complex system of rituals and esoteric practices known as Tantric or Vajrayana Buddhism.
Authentic Source Evidence
Historical analysis shows that Vajrayana (The Diamond Vehicle) was the dominant form of Buddhism in the major universities like Nalanda and Vikramshila, which were the final strongholds of the faith during the initial Turkish invasions.
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"What does 'Vajrayana' mean?"
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"Vajrayana's focus on ritual and occult practices made it distinct from the earlier monastic focus of Theravada and Hinayana."
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