Q. With reference to the development of various sects in Buddhism, consider the following statements:
The Sthaviravādins split away from Mahāsāmghikas during the Second Buddhist council
Lokottaravāda is a sub-school of Mahāsāmghika
Present day Theravādins are the successors of Sthaviravādins
Which of the above is / are correct?
Answer: 1, 2 & 3
Notes:
- Second Buddhist Council was held in 383 BC at Vaishali under King Kalasoka and presided by Sabakami. Its main objective was to settle a dispute on Vinaya Pitaka, the code of discipline. The dispute was not settled and first schism in Buddhism appears with this council for the first time.
- The Buddhism got divided into three subgroups viz. Sthaviravada, Mahasanghika and Sarvastivada. The Sthaviravādins or Elders were adamant on strict rules and current day Theravādins are their successors.
- Mahasamghika or Great community later spread in almost all over India and developed into various sub-schools such as Lokottaravāda and Bahuśrutīya. The key aspect of Mahasamghika school was the divine nature of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
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