- Deification of the Buddha
- Treading the path of Bodhisattvas
- Image worship and rituals
Answer: 1, 2 and 3
Notes: The correct answer is [D] 1, 2 and 3. These three elements represent the fundamental shift from the early Theravada (Hinayana) school to the more populist and devotional Mahayana Buddhism.
- Deification of the Buddha (Statement 1 – Correct): While early Buddhism viewed Gautama Buddha as a human teacher who attained enlightenment, Mahayana Buddhism elevated him to a divine status. He came to be regarded as an eternal, god-like figure who could be prayed to for salvation. This gave rise to the concept of the "Trikaya" (Three Bodies of Buddha).
- Treading the path of Bodhisattvas (Statement 2 – Correct): In Mahayana, the ideal shifted from the "Arhat" (one who seeks personal nirvana) to the Bodhisattva. A Bodhisattva is an enlightened being who voluntarily delays their own final nirvana to remain in the cycle of rebirth and help all sentient beings achieve liberation. Popular Bodhisattvas include Avalokiteshvara (compassion) and Manjusri (wisdom).
- Image Worship and Rituals (Statement 3 – Correct): With the deification of Buddha and Bodhisattvas, the symbolic representation (like the Stupa or Footprints) was replaced by Idol Worship. Elaborate rituals, chanting, and the construction of massive statues became central to religious practice, heavily influenced by the Gandhara and Mathura schools of art.
- Mahayana Buddhism gained official patronage during the reign of Kanishka (Kushan Empire).
- The Fourth Buddhist Council in Kashmir formalised the division between the Mahayana and Hinayana sects.
- The use of Sanskrit instead of Pali became more common in Mahayana scriptures (e.g., Lotus Sutra).
