Kanishka convened the Fourth Buddhist Council at which of the following place?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 4: Kundalavana.
Explanation:
Kanishka, the great ruler of the Kushan dynasty, organized the Fourth Buddhist Council at Kundalavana in Kashmir.
• Time: This council was held approximately in the 1st century CE (72 CE).
• Presidency: It was presided over by Vasumitra, while Ashvaghosha served as its Vice-President.
• Key Outcome: During this council, Buddhism clearly split into two main sects—Hinayana and Mahayana. Kanishka himself was a patron of the Mahayana sect.
• Cultural Significance: Difficult passages of Buddhist texts were deliberated upon during this council, and commentaries known as the 'Vibhasha Shastra' were compiled.
Brief Overview of the Buddhist Councils:
Information regarding all four councils is crucial for competitive examinations:
Council | Location | President | Patron Ruler
First | Rajagriha | Mahakasyapa | Ajatashatru
Second | Vaishali | Sabakami | Kalashoka
Third | Pataliputra | Moggaliputta Tissa | Ashoka
Fourth | Kundalavana | Vasumitra | Kanishka
Additional Facts (About Kanishka):
• Shaka Era: Kanishka initiated the 'Shaka Era' (Shaka Samvat) in 78 CE, which serves as India's National Calendar today.
• Capital: Kanishka's first capital was Purushapura (present-day Peshawar), and his second capital was Mathura.
• Charaka: The renowned Ayurvedic scholar Charaka served as Kanishka's royal physician.
Potential Questions for Upcoming Exams:
Question: After which Buddhist Council did Buddhism split into Hinayana and Mahayana?
Answer: The Fourth Buddhist Council.
Question: Who was the Vice-President of the Fourth Buddhist Council?
Answer: Ashvaghosha (who authored the 'Buddhacharita').
Question: What is the year of the Shaka Era initiated by Kanishka?