Who among the following presided over the Buddhist Council held during the reign of Kanishka at Kashmir?
✓ Correct answer: d) Vasumitra
ExplanationThe Buddhist Councils were pivotal in preserving and organizing the Buddha’s teachings.The First Council (483 BCE), held under King Ajatasatru, aimed to preserve the Buddha’s teachings, with Mahakassapa presiding.The Second Council (383 BCE) under King Kalasoka led to the split into Early Theravada and Early Mahayana.The Third Council (250 BCE), presided by Mogaliputta Tissa under Emperor Ashoka, focused on purifying Buddhism and compiling the Abhidhamma Pitaka.The Fourth Council (1st century AD) under King Kanishka in Kashmir formalized the division into Mahayana and Hinayana sects.Option (d) is correct: The Fourth Buddhist Council was convened during the reign of Emperor Kanishka of the Kushan dynasty around the 1st century CE in Kundalvana (modern-day Kashmir).The council was presided over by the scholar-monk Vasumitra, with Ashvaghosha serving as his deputy.This council had a significant influence on the development and spread of Mahayana Buddhism.88
Practice more History PYQs
Attempt a free 10-question quiz or browse the full History & Art-Culture previous-year-question bank with instant answers and explanations.
🏛️ History PYQs →