Which of the following kings ruled during the lifetimes of both Buddha and Mahavira?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 3: Ajatashatru.
Explanation:
- King Ajatashatru (c. 492–460 BCE) of the Haryanka dynasty ruled over Magadha. His reign was contemporary with both Gautama Buddha and Vardhamana Mahavira.
- Connection with the Buddha: Ajatashatru initially opposed the Buddha but later became his follower. Following the Buddha's Mahaparinirvana, it was Ajatashatru who organized the First Buddhist Council at the 'Saptaparni Cave' in Rajagriha.
- Connection with Mahavira: According to Jain texts, Ajatashatru (referred to as 'Kunika' in Jain scriptures) was a follower of Lord Mahavira and frequently visited him to pay his respects.
- Other Options: The reigns of Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka belong to a much later period (the Mauryan Empire), while Harshavardhana was a king of the 7th century CE.
Key Points:
- Haryanka Dynasty: Ajatashatru ascended the throne by assassinating his father, 'Bimbisara'.
- Imperial Expansion: He waged prolonged wars against Kosala and Vaishali (the Lichchhavis), thereby expanding the Magadha Empire.
- Weaponry: During the war against Vaishali, Ajatashatru employed novel weapons such as the 'Mahashilakantaka' (a stone-throwing catapult) and the 'Rathamusala' (a type of chariot fitted with a mace).
Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: To which dynasty did Ajatashatru belong?
Answer: The Haryanka dynasty.
Question: During whose reign was the First Buddhist Council convened?
Answer: Ajatashatru (in Rajagriha).
Question: What was the name of Ajatashatru's father, who was also a contemporary of the Buddha?
Answer: Bimbisara.