Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class Religion Book Solutions Chapter 2 Buddhist Movement upto Ashoka Period Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.
PSEB Solutions for Class 12 Religion Chapter 2 Buddhist Movement upto Ashoka Period
Long Answer Type Questions:
Question 1.
Discuss the contemporary religious conditions of Buddhism at the time of its origin.
Or
Give a brief account of those factors which led to the birth of Buddhism.
Answer:
There were many political, social and religious causes responsible for the origin of Buddhism in India in the 6th century B.C. A brief account of these is as follows :
1. Complexity in the Hindu Religion : During the Rigvedic period the Hindu religion was simple but it became more and more complex down the ages. It had lost its splendour and was plagued with multifarious rituals and superstitions. The philosophy of the Upanishads and of the Vedic texts was beyond the comprehension of the common man. As a consequence they were fed up with such a complex religion. The people yearned for a simple religion which could be easily understood by them and inspire them to lead a simple and pious life. According to eminent historian Dr. Satish K. Kapoor, “The Hindu society had lost its splendour and was plagued with multifarious rituals and superstitions.”
2. Expensive Religion : Initially the Hindu religion was popular among the people for its simplicity. But after the later Vedic period there were numerous changes. It started becoming more and more complex. Its main reason was the stress that was laid upon several yajnas and sacrifices. These yajnas continued for many years and heavy expenditure was incurred. The Brahmans were also given large donations. Besides these yajnas there were several other rites and rituals which had to be performed in the presence of these BrahmAnswer: People had to spend heavily on such ceremonies and these expenses were beyond the ordinary people. Thus they became against this religion.
3. Moral Degeneration of the Brahmans : During the Vedic period the Brahmans led a very simple and pure life. But with the passage of time moral degradation crept into their lifestyle. They became corrupt, greedy and cheats. They were always on the lookout to fool gullible people for their own gains and amass large amount of wealth. Besides this they now led a pampered and extravagant life. Hence people now were keen to be free of their influence on society.
4. Caste System : The Indian caste system by the 6th century had become rigid. The people of the higher castes who were also known as Dvij treated the Shudras worse than animals. These people felt defiled even if a Shudra’s shadow fell on them. The Shudras were not allowed to visit the temples, read Vedic literature, participate in yajnas and they were forbidden from even taking water from their wells.
5. Difficult Language : People were also confused due to the Sanskrit language. This language was considered very pure but due to its being very difficult the ordinary man could not understand it. All the religious texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Brahmans, Ramayana, Mahabharata, etc. were written in Sanskrit. Ordinary people were incapable of reading these religious texts. Taking advantage of this situation the Brahmans started interpreting the religious books according to their will. People started looking for such a religion which would be simple and understandable and its texts would be written in an easy language.
6. Belief in Charms and Spells : People by the 6th century B.C. had started believing blindly in certain things. Their belief in spirits, spells and magic, etc. had greatly increased. It was their belief that with the help of magic and spells they could defeat their enemies, find curse for their maladies and also get the desired progeny. Enlightened people now wanted a religion which would free society from these ills.
7. Birth of Great Personalities : In the 6th century B.C. were born several great personalities who freed mankind from the web of blind beliefs and showed it a new path. The names of Mahavira and Gautama Buddha are the most prominent. Their simple teachings were easily understood by the people and greatly influenced them. Large number of people became their disciple’s and later adopted Jainism or Buddhism. Giving an account of this B. P. Saha and K. S. Behera write, “Infact, birth of Jainism and Buddhism gave a new impetus to the people and significantly moulded social and religious life.”
Question 2.
What do you know about the life of founder of Buddhism?
Or
Describe the life of Lord Buddha.
Or
Throw light on the life of Mahatma Buddha and the origin of Buddhism.
Answer:
Birth and Parents : The birth of Mahatama Buddha was a significant event not only for India but for the entire world. There are several diverse opinions regarding the exact date of his birth. But modern historians agree that he was born in 566 B.C. He was born at Lumbini, near Kapilvastu on the day of Vaishakha Purnima. His mother’s name was Mahamaya and his father, Suddhodana was a Kshatriya of Sakya clan and was the ruler of Kapilvastu. The early name of Mahatama Buddha was Siddhartha.
The astrologer Asit had predicted that the child would become either a great emperor or a great saint. Siddhartha’s mother died seven days after his birth. So he was brought up by Mahamaya’s sister and second queen of Suddhodana, Prajapati Gautami.
2. Childhood and Marriage: Siddhartha was reared with all the comforts of life and for his education all appropriate measures were taken. From the beginning he had a spiritual bent of mind. He showed little interest in worldly affairs. His father wanted him to become a great emperor and so as to divert his mind from spiritual matters he married Siddhartha early at the age of 16 to a beautiful princess Yashodhara. A son was born to them who was named Rahul. Siddhartha however remained sad and contemplative. Even a family life could not divert his attention from spiritual pursuits.
3. Four Major Sights and Renunciation: Siddhartha lived in splendid palaces but he was keen to see the outside world. One day along with his coachman Channa, he left to see the world outside. On the way he saw an old man, a sick man, a dead man and an ascetic. These sights left a deep impression on his mind and proved a turning point in his life. He realised that the world is full of sorrows. He decided to leave home and so one night while his wife and son were sleeping he left his palace in the search of truth. This event is known as the Great Renunciation. At that time Siddhartha was 29 years old.
4. Enlightenment : After leaving home Siddhartha first went to Rajgriha, the capital of Magadha. Here he became the disciple of two religious preachers Arada Kalama and Udraka Ramaputra. However he was disillusioned and soon left. He along with five others then went to the forests of Uruvella. Here he did severe penance for 6 years but did not realise his cherished goal. He then went to Bodh Gaya. There he sat in meditation under a pipal tree.
After 48 days of meditation on the day of full moon night he got enlightenment. From that day he was known as Buddha or the Enlightened One. The tree under which he attained enlightenment is known as the ‘Mahabodhi Tree/ He was 35 years old when he got enlightenment.
5. Religious Preaching : After his enlightenment Lord Buddha decided to dispel the ignorance of the people and to preach the gospel of peace and universal brotherhood of mankind. He first reached Samath, in Banaras. There he preached his first sermon to his five friends who had left him. They became his followers. This event is known as the ‘Dharma Chakra Pravartna’ or Turning the Wheel of Law. For the next 45 years, he travelled extensively from place to place to preach his sermon.
Wherever he went he received unprecedented welcome from all sections of the people. His chief disciples included the rulers of Magdha, Bimbisara and Ajatasatru, king of Kosala, Prasenjit, Udaiyan the king of Kosambi, the famous prostitute of Vaisali named Amrapali, Suddhodana the king of Kapilvastu (Buddha’s father), Queen Prajapati Gautami, Buddha’s wife Yashodhara and son Rahul.
6. Mahapamirvana : Mahatama Buddha showed the right path to mankind through his teachings. When he was 80 in 486 B.C., Gautama Buddha left this mortal world at Kushinagar in Gorakhpur district of U.P. This event is known as Mahapamirvana.
Question 3.
Discuss in brief the basic teachings of Lord Buddha.
Or
Discuss the Ethical teachings of Buddhism.
Or
Explain the basic teachings of Buddhism.
Or
What are the main teachings of Buddhism?
Or
Describe the teachings of Lord Buddha.
Answer:
The teachings of Mahatma Buddha were simple and clear. He inspired the people to lead a simple and pious life. He told the people that the world is an abode of sorrows and man can attain salvation only by following the Eightfold Path. He vehemently opposed the superstitions prevalent in society. He propagated mutual brotherhood. Mahatma Buddha propagated his teachings in Pali the common language of people. He did not preach complex philosophy. It was for this reason that his teachings cast a magical spell on the people and they were converted to Buddhism – in large numbers.
1. Four Noble Truths : The Four Noble Truths formed the crux of Lord Buddha’s teachings. They are referred to as the Arya Satya because they are based on truth. These four truths are as follows:
(1) World is full of Sufferings : According to Lord Buddha the first truth is that this world is full of sufferings. There are sufferings in a man’s life from birth till death. Birth, disease, old age, richness, poverty, more children, childlessness and death etc. are all reasons for sufferings.
(2) There is a cause of Sufferings : The second truth of Lord Buddha is that there is a cause for these sufferings. The cause is human desire. It is these desires which trap man in the cycle of transmigration.
(3) Sufferings can be Stopped : The third truth of Lord Buddha is that these sufferings can be put to an end. This can be done by giving up one’s desire.
(4) There is a way to stop Sufferings : The fourth truth of Lord Buddha is that there is only one way to put an end to one’s sufferings.
This path is called the Eightfold Path or the Middle Path. Man can attain salvation by treading on this path. In the words of the famous scholar J.P. Suda, “The Four Noble Truths expounded by the Master constitute the core of his teachings. They contain his deepest and most considered convictions about human life and its problem.”
2. Eightfold Path: Lord Buddha preached that men should tread on the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path is also called the Middle Path because it was the path in between strict penance and a luxurious life. Following were the principles of the Eightfold Path :
- Right Action : Man should perform pious deeds. He should keep away from stealing, luxury and killing of creatures. He should love all mankind.
- Right Thought : All men should have the right thoughts. They should keep away from all worldly evils and futile customs and traditions.
- Right Belief : Man should have a strong belief that by sacrificing all his desires he can put an end to all his sufferings. They should not deviate from the Eightfold Path.
- Right Living : All men should have the right living. They should not indulge in unscrupulous activities.
- Right Speech : Man’s speech should be pious and sweet. He should not criticize anyone nor should talk evil and should always speak the truth.
- Right Efforts : Man should make the right efforts to condemn evil deeds and work for the welfare of others.
- Right Recollection : Man should spend his life in right recollection and lead a simple life.
- Right Meditation : Man should not think about the vices and should adopt right meditation. According to Dr. S.B. Shastri “This noble eightfold path forms the keynote of Buddha’s teachings for emancipating oneself from the ills of life.”
3. Belief in Karma Theory : Lord Buddha believed in the Karma Theory. He believed that every man is the maker of his own destiny. He gets the fruit of the deeds he performs. We receive the fruit of our deeds of the previous birth in this life and the fruit of our deeds in the present birth in the next life. Just as a man’s shadow is always by his side similarly a man’s Karma does not leave him. Lord Buddha said, “A man cannot escape the fruit of his evil doings by hiding in the sky, or in the ocean or in the caves in the mountains.”
4. Rebirth : Lord Buddha had devout faith in rebirth. He believed that a man was bound to the cycle of transmigration due to his Karma. This cycle continued till a man’s desire and lust did not come to an end. Just as a lamp extinguishes on the burning out of oil and wick, similarly a man is freed from the bondage of Karma when he ends his desire and attains supreme peace.
5. Ahimsa : Lord Buddha believed in ahimsa. He was of the belief that man should show love and sympathy towards all creatures i.e. man, flora-fauna and all living organisms. He considered it a sin not only to kill creatures but also to ill-treat them. Hence he preached against those who killed animals.
6. Three Marks : The teachings of Lord Buddha also included the principle of three marks. These three marks area
- All prohibited things are not permanent.
- All prohibited things cause suffering.
- All these prohibited things are not self (Atman) but are non-self (Anatman).
These are our daily experiences. According to Lord Buddha, everything that is born has a pre-determined end. These are Anit (unstable). What is unstable is also depressed. Man’s birth, disease and death etc. are all reasons for distress. There are some moments of happiness in a man’s life but they are for a very short duration. Anatma implies denial of self. Whatever is unstable is not mine.
7. Panchsheel : Lord Buddha has prescribed five rules to be followed by the householders. These rules are also called shikshapada. These five rules are as follows :
- Do not kill even the smallest of creatures.
- Donate and receive generously, but do not acquire the other person’s possession by greed or fraud.
- Do not give a false testimony, do not criticise anyone and do not tell a lie.
- Save your soul from intoxicants because they hamper one’s thinking.
- Do not think evil of anyone. Save the body from unnecessary evils. To adopt Buddhism, the monks and nuns had to follow five more rules.
These rules are:
- Eat food on time.
- Stay away from song-dance.
- Do not sleep on soft mattresses.
- Do not use body adornments and fragrance.
- Do not get trapped in the vicious cycle of gold and silver.
8. Four Unlimited Virtues : Lord Buddha emphasized on the four social virtues. These virtues are—friendliness, kindness, sympathy and neutrality. These help us to coordinate better with other human beings. It puts an end to mutual jealousy. Man should love his enemy too. Kindness inspires us to help the others in sorrow. Sympathetic happiness is a virtue that trains a man to be capable of being a part of other’s happiness. A person who has this virtue does not envy the other person’s happiness. The spirit of neutrality keeps greed and other vices at bay. Such a man treats all humans equally. In fact these four unlimited virtues are the foundation of the moral values of Buddhism.
9. Universal Brotherhood : Lord Buddha gave the message of universal brotherhood to people. He wanted that people should forget all mutual differences and live peacefully. He was of the view that the hatred in the world can be brought to an end. Lord Buddha eradicated the prevalent system of discrimination in society by admitting the people of all varnas and castes of the various religions into Buddhism. Lord Buddha himself served the desolate and the diseased to present an ideal example.
10. Disbelief in Yajnas and Sacrifices : There were several superstitions prevalent in Hinduism at that time. They emphasised on yajnas and sacrifices for the attainment of salvation. Lord Buddha said that these superstitions were a mere eye-wash. He was of the view that the yajnas could not change one’s Karma and through sacrifice, he only adds to his piles of evil deeds. Hence they cannot please any god or goddess.
11. Disbelief in Vedas and Sanskrit : Lord Buddha did not believe in the sanctity of the Vedas. He also condemned the fact that one could gain the fruit of reading the scriptures only by doing so in Sanskrit. He himself preached in the common language—Pali.
12. Disbelief in Caste System : Lord Buddha stringently opposed the prevalent caste system in the Hindu society. According to him a man is big or small in accordance to one’s Karma and not according to one’s birth. Hence Lord Buddha admitted people of all religions to Buddhism. He said to his disciples, “Go to all the countries and give the message of dharma to all persons and tell them that there is no question of big or small or rich and poor in this religion. Buddhism is open to all castes. All people can join it in the same manner as the rivers join the sea.”
13. Disbelief in Penance : Lord Buddha did not believe in hard penance. According to him, it was futile to observe fast and give trouble to one’s body. He himself had observed penance for six years but all in vain. He believed that one could in one’s married life tread on the Eightfold Path and attain salvation.
14. Disbelief in God : Lord Buddha remained silent about the entity of God. He did not want to get into any controversy regarding God. But he definitely believed that this world is being run by some power. He called that power the dharma.
15. Nirvana : According to Lord Buddha, the highest aim of human life should be the attainment of Nirvana. It is with the attainment of Nirvana that man achieves happiness, pleasure and peace in life. He gets emancipation from the cycle of transmigration. It puts an end to all sorrows. In fact, Nirvana is a state which cannot be described in words. Those who experience this truth do not talk about it and those who talk in this context do not have any knowledge about it. According to Lord Buddha, any person can attain Nirvana by treading on the Eightfold Path. Whereas according to other religions, one can attain salvation after death, in Buddhism its achievement is possible within a lifetime.
In this manner, we see that the teachings of Lord Buddha acted as a pillar of light for mankind wandering in darkness. In the end, we agree with the words of Dr. B. Jinananda, “In fact, the Buddha’s teachings were based on love on the one hand and on logic on the other.”
Question 4.
Describe the life and teachings of Mahatma Buddha.
Answer:
Birth and Parents : The birth of Mahatama Buddha was a significant event not only for India but for the entire world. There are several diverse opinions regarding the exact date of his birth. But modern historians agree that he was born in 566 B.C. He was born at Lumbini, near Kapilvastu on the day of Vaishakha Purnima. His mother’s name was Mahamaya and his father, Suddhodana was a Kshatriya of Sakya clan and was the ruler of Kapilvastu.
The early name of Mahatama Buddha was Siddhartha. The astrologer Asit had predicted that the child would become either a great emperor or a great saint. Siddhartha’s mother died seven days after his birth. So he was brought up by Mahamaya’s sister and second queen of Suddhodana, Prajapati Gautami.
2. Childhood and Marriage : Siddhartha was reared with all the comforts of life and for his education all appropriate measures were taken. From the beginning he had a spiritual bent of mind. He showed little interest in worldly affairs. His father wanted him to become a great emperor and so as to divert his mind from spiritual matters he married Siddhartha early at the age of 16 to a beautiful princess Yashodhara. A son was born to them who was named Rahul. Siddhartha however remained sad and contemplative. Even a family life could not divert his attention from spiritual pursuits.
3. Four Major Sights and Renunciation : Siddhartha lived in splendid palaces but he was keen to see the outside world. One day along with his coachman Channa, he left to see the world outside. On the way he saw an old man, a sick man, a dead man and an ascetic. These sights left a deep impression on his mind and proved a turning point in his life. He realised that the world is full of sorrows. He decided to leave home and so one night while his wife and son were sleeping he left his palace in the search of truth. This event is known as the Great Renunciation. At that time Siddhartha was 29 years old.
4. Enlightenment : After leaving home Siddhartha first went to Rajgriha, the capital of Magadha. Here he became the disciple of two religious preachers Arada Kalama and Udraka Ramaputra. However he was disillusioned and soon left. He along with five others then went to the forests of Uruvella. Here he did severe penance for 6 years but did not realise his cherished goal. He then went to Bodh Gaya. There he sat in meditation under a pipal tree.
After 48 days of meditation on the day of full moon night he got enlightenment. From that day he was known as Buddha or the Enlightened One. The tree under which he attained enlightenment is known as the ‘Mahabodhi Tree/ He was 35 years old when he got enlightenment.
5. Religious Preaching : After his enlightenment Lord Buddha decided to dispel the ignorance of the people and to preach the gospel of peace and universal brotherhood of mankind. He first reached Samath, in Banaras. There he preached his first sermon to his five friends who had left him. They became his followers. This event is known as the ‘Dharma Chakra Pravartna’ or Turning the Wheel of Law. For the next 45 years, he travelled extensively from place to place to preach his sermon. Wherever he went he received unprecedented welcome from all sections of the people.
His chief disciples included the rulers of Magdha, Bimbisara and Ajatasatru, king of Kosala, Prasenjit, Udaiyan the king of Kosambi, the famous prostitute of Vaisali named Amrapali, Suddhodana the king of Kapilvastu (Buddha’s father), Queen Prajapati Gautami, Buddha’s wife Yashodhara and son Rahul.
6. Mahapamirvana : Mahatama Buddha showed the right path to mankind through his teachings. When he was 80 in 486 B.C., Gautama Buddha left this mortal world at Kushinagar in Gorakhpur district of U.P. This event is known as Mahapamirvana.
The teachings of Mahatma Buddha were simple and clear. He inspired the people to lead a simple and pious life. He told the people that the world is an abode of sorrows and man can attain salvation only by following the Eightfold Path. He vehemently opposed the superstitions prevalent in society. He propagated mutual brotherhood. Mahatma Buddha propagated his teachings in Pali the common language of people. He did not preach complex philosophy. It was for this reason that his teachings cast a magical spell on the people and they were converted to Buddhism – in large numbers.
1. Four Noble Truths : The Four Noble Truths formed the crux of Lord Buddha’s teachings. They are referred to as the Arya Satya because they are based on truth. These four truths are as follows:
- World is full of Sufferings : According to Lord Buddha the first truth is that this world is full of sufferings. There are sufferings in a man’s life from birth till death. Birth, disease, old age, richness, poverty, more children, childlessness and death etc. are all reasons for sufferings.
- There is a cause of Sufferings : The second truth of Lord Buddha is that there is a cause for these sufferings. The cause is human desire. It is these desires which trap man in the cycle of transmigration.
- Sufferings can be Stopped : The third truth of Lord Buddha is that these sufferings can be put to an end. This can be done by giving up one’s desire.
- There is a way to stop Sufferings : The fourth truth of Lord Buddha is that there is only one way to put an end to one’s sufferings. This path is called the Eightfold Path or the Middle Path. Man can attain salvation by treading on this path.
In the words of the famous scholar J.P. Suda, “The Four Noble Truths expounded by the Master constitute the core of his teachings. They contain his deepest and most considered convictions about human life and its problem.”
2. Eightfold Path: Lord Buddha preached that men should tread on the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path is also called the Middle Path because it was the path between strict penance and a luxurious life. Following were the principles of the Eightfold Path :
- Right Action: Man should perform pious deeds. He should keep away from stealing, luxury and killing of creatures. He should love all mankind.
- Right Thought: All men should have the right thoughts. They should keep away from all worldly evils and futile customs and traditions.
- Right Belief: Man should have a strong belief that by sacrificing all his desires he can put an end to all his sufferings. They should not deviate from the Eightfold Path.
- Right Living: All men should have the right to live. They should not indulge in unscrupulous activities.
- Right Speech: Man’s speech should be pious and sweet. He should not criticize anyone nor should talk evil and should always speak the truth.
- Right Efforts: Man should make the right efforts to condemn evil deeds and work for the welfare of others.
- Right Recollection: Man should spend his life in right recollection and lead a simple life.
- Right Meditation: Man should not think about the vices and should adopt right meditation. According to Dr. S.B. Shastri
“This noble eightfold path forms the keynote of Buddha’s teachings for emancipating oneself from the ills of life.”
3. Belief in Karma Theory: Lord Buddha believed in the Karma Theory. He believed that every man is the maker of his own destiny. He gets the fruit of the deeds he performs. We receive the fruit of our deeds of the previous birth in this life and the fruit of our deeds in the present birth in the next life. Just as a man’s shadow is always by his side similarly a man’s Karma does not leave him. Lord Buddha said, “A man cannot escape the fruit of his evil doings by hiding in the sky, or in the ocean or in the caves in the mountains.”
4. Rebirth: Lord Buddha had devout faith in rebirth. He believed that a man was bound to the cycle of transmigration due to his Karma. This cycle continued till a man’s desire and lust did not come to an end. Just as a lamp extinguishes on the burning out of oil and wick, similarly a man is freed from the bondage of Karma when he ends his desire and attains supreme peace.
5. Ahimsa: Lord Buddha believed in ahimsa. He was of the belief that man should show love and sympathy towards all creatures i.e. man, flora-fauna and all living organisms. He considered it a sin not only to kill creatures but also to ill-treat them. Hence he preached against those who killed animals.
6. Three Marks: The teachings of Lord Buddha also included the principle of three marks. These three marks area
- All prohibited things are not permanent.
- All prohibited things cause suffering.
- All these prohibited things are not-self (Atman) but are non-self (Anatman).
These are our daily experiences. According to Lord Buddha, everything that is born has a pre-determined end. These are Anit (unstable). What is unstable is also depression. Man’s birth, disease and death etc. are all reasons for distress. There are some moments of happiness in a man’s life but they are for a very short duration. Anatma implies denial of self. Whatever is unstable is not mine.
7. Panchsheel: Lord Buddha has prescribed five rules to be followed by the householders. These rules are also called shikshapada. These five rules are as follows :
- Do not kill even the smallest of creatures.
- Donate and receive generously, but do not acquire the other person’s possession by greed or fraud.
- Do not give false testimony, do not criticise anyone and do not tell a lie.
- Save your soul from intoxicants because they hamper one’s thinking.
- Do not think evil of anyone. Save the body from unnecessary evils. To adopt Buddhism, the monks and nuns had to follow five more rules.
These rules are:
- Eat food on time.
- Stay away from song-dance.
- Do not sleep on soft mattresses.
- Do not use body adornments and fragrances.
- Do not get trapped in the vicious cycle of gold and silver.
8. Four Unlimited Virtues: Lord Buddha emphasized on the four social virtues. These virtues are friendliness, kindness, sympathy and neutrality. These help us to coordinate better with other human beings. It puts an end to mutual jealousy. Man should love his enemy too. Kindness inspires us to help others in sorrow. Sympathetic happiness is a virtue that trains a man to be capable of being a part of other’s happiness.
A person who has this virtue does not envy the other person’s happiness. The spirit of neutrality keeps greed and other vices at bay. Such a man treats all humans equally. In fact, these four unlimited virtues are the foundation of the moral values of Buddhism.
9. Universal Brotherhood: Lord Buddha gave the message of universal brotherhood to people. He wanted that people should forget all mutual differences and live peacefully. He was of the view that the hatred in the world can be brought to an end. Lord Buddha eradicated the prevalent system of discrimination in society by admitting the people of all varnas and castes of the various religions into Buddhism. Lord Buddha himself served the desolate and the diseased to present an ideal example.
10. Disbelief in Yajnas and Sacrifices: There were several superstitions prevalent in Hinduism at that time. They emphasised on yajnas and sacrifices for the attainment of salvation. Lord Buddha said that these superstitions were a mere eye-wash. He was of the view that the yajnas could not change one’s Karma and through sacrifice, he only adds to his piles of evil deeds. Hence they cannot please any god or goddess.
11. Disbelief in Vedas and Sanskrit: Lord Buddha did not believe in the sanctity of the Vedas. He also condemned the fact that one could gain the fruit of reading the scriptures only by doing so in Sanskrit. He himself preached in the common language—Pali.
12. Disbelief in Caste System: Lord Buddha stringently opposed the prevalent caste system in the Hindu society. According to him a man is big or small in accordance to one’s Karma and not according to one’s birth. Hence Lord Buddha admitted people of all religions to Buddhism. He said to his disciples, “Go to all the countries and give the message of dharma to all persons and tell them that there is no question of big or small or rich and poor in this religion. Buddhism is open to all castes. All people can join it in the same manner as the rivers join the sea.”
13. Disbelief in Penance: Lord Buddha did not believe in a hard penance. According to him, it was futile to observe fast and give trouble to one’s body. He himself had observed penance for six years but all in vain. He believed that one could in one’s married life tread on the Eightfold Path and attain salvation.
14. Disbelief in God: Lord Buddha remained silent about the entity of God. He did not want to get into any controversy regarding God. But he definitely believed that this world is being run by some power. He called that power the dharma.
15. Nirvana: According to Lord Buddha, the highest aim of human life should be the attainment of Nirvana. It is with the attainment of Nirvana that man achieves happiness, pleasure and peace in life. He gets emancipation from the cycle of transmigration. It puts an end to all sorrows. In fact, Nirvana is a state which cannot be described in words.
Those who experience this truth do not talk about it and those who talk in this context do not have any knowledge about it. According to Lord Buddha, any person can attain Nirvana by treading on the Eightfold Path. Whereas according to other religions, one can attain salvation after death, in Buddhism its achievement is possible within a lifetime.
In this manner, we see that the teachings of Lord Buddha acted as a pillar of light for mankind wandering in darkness. In the end, we agree with the words of Dr. B. Jinananda, “In fact, the Buddha’s teachings were based on love on the one hand and on logic on the other.”
Question 5.
Explain the main features of the Buddhist Sangha.
Or
Write a short note on the Buddhist Sangha.
Answer:
Lord Buddha established Buddhist Sangha (organisation) for teaching Buddhism in an organised way. Sangha meants the organisation of monks. The Buddhist Sanghas were established in different parts of the country. Slowly and slowly these Sanghas became powerful institutions and became main centres for spreading Buddhism. In the words of the famous historian Dr. R.C. Majumdar, “The idea of a Church, or a corporate body of men following a particular faith, was not certainly a new one and there were many organisations of this type at and before the times of Gautama Buddha. His credit, however, lies in the thorough and systematic character which he gave to these organisations.”6
1. Membership of the Sangha : The followers of Lord Buddha were of two types. They were called bhikshus (monks) and bhikshunis (nuns) and both male and female worshippers. These wprshippers led family life. Bhikshus and bhikshunis embraced Sangha after renunciation of the world. In the beginning entry into the Sangha was very easy, but afterwards the members of the Sangha began to increase rapidly.
Conse quently, indisciplined people began to seek entry into it, who wanted to lead a life of luxury on the charity of the people. These people included dacoits, murderers and debt¬ors who wanted to escape from punishment by the king. At that time, there was a royal order that no official would harm any Buddhist monk or nun.
Therefore, Lord Buddha prescribed some qualifications for the members to join the Buddhist Sangha. Accord¬ingly the minimum age of 15 years was fixed for any man or woman to join Sangha. It was necessary for them to seek the permission of parents or guardians for becoming the member of Sangha. The criminals, slaves and patients could not become the mem¬ber of Sangha. A person of any caste could get entry into the Sangha. First of all, the head of monk or nun joining the Sangha had to shaved off his head and he or she had to wear yellow clothes. After that the new member had to pledge that “I take refuge of Buddha, I take refuge of dharma, I take refuge of Sangha.”
Thereafter he had to adopt his guru or teacher from one of the members of Sangha and received education from him for 10 years. Such members were called ‘Shramans’. If after 10 years, he was recognized competent, he would become member of Sangha and got the title of bhikshu or bhikshuni.
2. Ten Commandments : The members of the Sangha had to lead a disciplined life. Each member had to obey these rules —
- to abide by brahmcharya
- not to harm creatures
- not to have desires for the property of others
- to speak the truth
- not to use intoxicants
- not to participate in music and dancing
- not to use scented goods
- not to sleep on cushions
- not to keep money
- not to take meals at time others than the fixed one.
3. Special Rules for Nuns: The Buddhist Sanghas of nuns were separate from those of monks. Hence, some more rules were also made for nuns. These rules were as such :
- The nuns should well understand their duties,
- They should bring alms once a fortnight,
- They should not live in those places in the rainy season where there are no monks,
- They should live separate from monks so that they may not see them or their activities,
- They should not tempt monks to corrupt ways,
- They should be free from sins and anger etc.
- They should accept their sins before a monk fortnightly,
- Each nun howsoever old she may be must show respect even to the new monk.
4. Residence: The Buddhist monks and nuns roamed about in different parts of the country except for three months of rainy season and gave teachings to the people. During three months of the rainy season, they lived at one place and did studies. Their residences were called avas. Each avas had many Viharas where there were separate rooms for monks and nuns. They led community life in the Viharas. Whatever alms a monk or nun received, that was distributed among all the members of the Sangha. These Viharas became famous centres for the teachings of Buddhism.
5. Constitution of the Sangha: Each Buddhist Sangha was based on democratic lines. All the members had equal rights. No one was considered high or low. The monks occupied their seats in the Sangha according to their status. For holding session of Sangha, minimum 20 monks were necessary. Without this number, each session was considered invalid. Resolutions were moved in the Sangha on the basis of information given already on each subject.
Thereafter, there used to be debate on each resolution. Voting was held in respect of those resolutions where there was controversy among the members. There were two types of voting, secret and open. If any member had been absent, he could give his opinion beforehand. Some times a resolution was handed over to a sub-committee for its special opinion. All the decisions of the Sanghas, were taken on the basis of majority. It was necessary for each Sangha to hold a meeting twice in a month.
In these meetings, monks and nuns were punished who violated the rules of the Sangha and decisions were also taken with respect to the efforts to be made for the spread of the religion. There were some special authorities in each Sangha who were selected unanimously by the members of the Sangha. These authorities arranged Viharas and food etc. for monks and nuns. In the words of Dr. Aurn Bhattacharjee, “The well disciplined Sangha was the pillar of the success of Buddhism.”
6. Schism in Sangha : The Buddhist Sanghas did a commendable work in popularising Buddhism. But when hundred years after the death of Lord Buddha, the Second Great Council of Buddhism was held at Vaisali, then the Buddhism suffered from schism. Buddhism lost its unity. In the first century B.C., the Buddhism got divided into two main sects, Hinayana and Mahayana. This schism in the Buddhist Sangha became a potent factor for the downfall of Buddhism in India.
Question 6.
Write about Sangha, Nirvana and Panchsheel in Buddhism.
Or
Write about Sangha and Panchsheel in Buddhism.
Or
Write about the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism.
Answer:
The concepts of Sangha, Nirvana and Panchsheel are very important in Buddhism. They appreciably contributed towards the development of Buddhism. A brief description of these is given below :
(A) Sangha
Lord Buddha had established the Buddhist Sangha to consolidate his followers. Sangha implied an association of Buddhist monks. Slowly, the Sangha converted into a powerful institute. Every male or female who was above 15 years of age was admitted to the Buddhist Sangha as a member. The criminals, diseased and slaves were not allowed to become members of the Sangha. It was essential to take the consent of family members before joining the Sangha.
A new monk had to have his head shaved off, dress up in yellow clothes and pledge, “I take refuge of Lord Buddha, I take refuge of dharma, I take refuge of the Sangha”. The members of the Sangha had to lead a very disciplined life. Every member had to follow some rules.
These rules were:
- Observe brahmacharya.
- Do not trouble other living creatures,
- Not to desire other’s wealth,
- To always speak the truth,
- Not to use intoxicants,
- Not to sleep on cushioned mattresses,
- Not to keep any wealth with self,
- Not to have food at a time other than the one prescribed.
The monks and nuns who joined the Sangha had to first undertake training for ten years from any monk in the Sangha. If successful, they became the members of the Sangha. All the members of the Sangha led a simple and pious life. They earned their livelihood by collecting bhiksha. Except for the three months of the monsoon, the members of the Sangha used to travel to various parts of the country to propagate Buddhism. Special meetings of the Sangha were held to take important decisions of the Sangha. All the members of the Sangha were allowed to take part in the important decisions.
All decisions were based on majority consent. In case of conflict over any issue, the decision was left to a sub-committee. Infact, the Buddhist Sangha had an important role to play in the growth of Buddhism. According to Dr. S.N. Sen, The phenomenal success of Buddhism was due to the organisation of the Sangha.”
(B) Nirvana
According to Lord Buddha, the supreme objective of human life is to attain Nirvana. Buddhism in context of Nirvana says that it is neither life nor death. It is no heaven where the gods gain happiness. It has always been called the source of happiness and peace. It is the end to all sorrows, desires and greed. Its reality is totally imaginary. It cannot be described. To know about its truth and its meaning, it is essential to attain it. Those who are aware of its truth do not talk about it and those who talk about it do not actually have any knowledge about it.
According to Lord Buddha, any person can attain Nirvana by treading on the Eightfold Path. Where the other religions talk of Nirvana after death, Buddhism says it is possible to attain salvation even in one’s life-time.
(C) Panchsheel : Lord Buddha has prescribed five rules to be followed by the householders. These rules are also called shikshapada. These five rules are as follows :
- Do not kill even the smallest of creatures.
- Donate and receive generously, but do not acquire the other person’s possession by greed or fraud.
- Do not give a false testimony, do not criticise anyone and do not tell a lie.
- Save your soul from intoxicants because they hamper one’s thinking.
- Do not think evil of anyone. Save the body from unnecessary evils. To adopt Buddhism, the monks and nuns had to follow five more rules.
These rules are:
- Eat food on time.
- Stay away from song-dance.
- Do not sleep on soft mattresses.
- Do not use body adornments and fragrance.
- Do not get trapped in the vicious cycle of gold and silver.
Question 7.
Write a detailed note on early Buddhist sects and society.
Answer:
(A) Early Buddhist Sects
After the Nirvana of Lord Buddha, Buddhism was divided into more than 18 sects. Most of these sects were small and they had no great importance. A brief description of some important sects of Buddhism is as follows :
1. Sthaviravadins and Mahasanghikas : In 387 B.C., at Vaishali, 100 years after the attainment of Nirvana by Lord Buddha, when the Second Great Council was convened, there was a schism in the Buddhist Sangha due to the adoption of the 10 Commandments. Consequently Sthaviravadins or Theravadins and the Mahasanghika came into existence. Sthaviravadin monks were supporters of the traditional rules of Buddhism. They were not in favour of changes of any form in any of the Commandments.
The Mahasanghikas were in favour of adoption of new Commandments. In this Great Council, the Sthavirvadins emerged victorious and the Mahasanghikas were compelled to leave the Great Council. Soon the Sthaviravadins were divided into 11 sects and the Mahasanghikas were divided into 7 sects.
2. Hinayana and Mahayana: During Kanishka’s reign in the 1st century A.D. at Jalandhar, the Fourth Great Council of the Buddhist monks was held. It was in this Great Council that the Hinayana and Mahayana sects were formed. Yana literally means the way to attainment of salvation. Hinayana meant a small vehicle. Mahayana meant a big vehicle. The Hinayanas continued to support the traditional commandments of Buddhism whereas the Mahayanas adopted new principles.
The Hinayanas propagated their religion in the southern countries of Asia such as India, Sri Lanka and Burma (Myanmar) etc. Mahayanas propagated their religion in the northern countries of Asia such as China, Japan, Nepal and Tibet etc. The following were the differences between the Hinayanas and the Mahayanas :
- The Hinayana sect considered Lord Buddha to be a pious soul whereas the Mahayana sect considered him as a form of God.
- The Hinayana sect was against idol worship whereas the Mahayana sect was not against idol worship.
- The Hinayana sect did not believe in the Bodhisattvas. According to them a person could attain salvation only through one’s effort. No god can help anyone to attain Nirvana. The Mahayanas had complete faith in the Bodhisattvas. Bodhisattvas were those great people who took birth again and again with the objective to help people attain salvation.
- The Hinayana sect preached Buddhism in Pah language which was the language of the common people. The Mahayana sect preached Buddhism in Sanskrit language.
- According to the Hinayana sect the supreme objective of human life is to attain Nirvana whereas according to the Mahayana sect, the ultimate goal of human life is to acquire the heaven.
- The Hinayana sect had no relation with Hinduism whereas the Mahayana sect adopted several principles of Hinduism with a view to make their religion popular.
- The Hinayana sect was against any changes in the teachings of Lord Buddha whereas the Mahayana sect made changes in the Commandments of Buddhism according to time. Hence the Mahayana sect becajne more popular than the Hinayana sect.
- The main texts of Hinayana sect were Tripitakas, Milindpanho and Mahamangalsutra etc. The main texts of Mahayana .sect were Lalitvistara, Budhacharita and Saunderananda etc.
3. Vajrayana : A new sect of Buddhism came into existence in Bengal and Bihar in the eighth century B.G. This sect was associated with magic spells and incantations. This sect believed that magical powers could help to attain salvation. The magical powers were called Vajra. Hence the sect was called Vajrayana. Males and females of any caste could join this group. This sect emphasised on the importance of goddesses. It was believed that these goddesses could help to reach the Bodhisattvas.
These goddesses were called Tara. ‘Mahanirvana Tantra’ was the most famous religious book of the Vajrayanas. This religious title of Vajrayanas was also called the Tantrik. The most important Vihara of Vajrayana is situated at Vikramashila in Bihar. The Vajrayana sect allowed its followers to consume intoxicants, meat etc. and sexual pleasures, thus sounding the death knell of Buddhism. According to N.N. Ghosh, “The chief cause of disappearance of Buddhism was the prevalence of Vajrayana which sapped its foundation by destroying all mental strength.”
(B) Society
Buddhist ideology imagined the establishment of an ideal society. The main rules of this society were :
- Social equality and religious autonomy were established in society. Buddhism has vehemently opposed casteism. Buddhism had its doors open to all religions, castes and creeds.
- It propagated the equality of women to men.
- It is essential for a Buddhist to have a pure heart and good character in his life.
It inspired people not to give a false testimony, not to lie, not to speak evil, not to use intoxicants, not to steal, not to commit other sins and not to kill even the smallest of living creatures. Lord Buddha said, “A life time of even a hundred years is futile if one does not find supreme truth but one who finds the supreme truth has a useful life even if it is a single day.”
In brief, if we follow these principles of Lord Buddha, then undoubtedly this earth of ours shall become a glowing example of heaven.
Question 8.
What do you know about the main sects of Buddhism?
Or
What thoughts and, ideas are represented by Hinayana and Mahayana? Discuss.
Or
What is meant by Hinayana and Mahayana? Distinguish between the two.
Or
What do you understand by Mahayana and Hinayana sects of Buddhism?
Or
Explain the basic teachings of Mahayana and Hinayana sects of Buddhism.
Or
Write a detailed note on the Buddhist sects named Mahayana and Hinayana.
Or
Throw light on the origin and growth of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism.
Or
What do you know about the development of Mahayana? Discuss.
Answer:
Hinayana and Mahayana: During Kanishka’s reign in the 1st century A.D. at Jalandhar, the Fourth Great Council of the Buddhist monks was held. It was in this Great Council that the Hinayana and Mahayana sects were formed. Yana literally means the way to attainment of salvation. Hinayana meant a small vehicle. Mahayana meant a big vehicle. The Hinayanas continued to support the traditional commandments of Buddhism whereas the Mahayanas adopted new principles.
The Hinayanas propagated their religion in the southern countries of Asia such as India, Sri Lanka and Burma (Myanmar) etc. Mahayanas propagated their religion in the northern countries of Asia such as China, Japan, Nepal and Tibet etc. The following were the differences between the Hinayanas and the Mahayanas :
- The Hinayana sect considered Lord Buddha to be a pious soul whereas the Mahayana sect considered him as a form of God.
- The Hinayana sect was against idol worship whereas the Mahayana sect was not against idol worship.
- The Hinayana sect did not believe in the Bodhisattvas. According to them a person could attain salvation only through one’s effort. No god can help anyone to attain Nirvana. The Mahayanas had complete faith in the Bodhisattvas. Bodhisattvas were those great people who took birth again and again with the objective to help people attain salvation.
- The Hinayana sect preached Buddhism in Pah language which was the language of the common people. The Mahayana sect preached Buddhism in Sanskrit language.
- According to the Hinayana sect the supreme objective of human life is to attain Nirvana whereas according to the Mahayana sect, the ultimate goal of human life is to acquire the heaven.
- The Hinayana sect had no relation with Hinduism whereas the Mahayana sect adopted several principles of Hinduism with a view to make their religion popular.
- The Hinayana sect was against any changes in the teachings of Lord Buddha whereas the Mahayana sect made changes in the Commandments of Buddhism according to time. Hence the Mahayana sect becajne more popular than the Hinayana sect.
- The main texts of Hinayana sect were Tripitakas, Milindpanho and Mahamangalsutra etc. The main texts of Mahayana .sect were Lalitvistara, Budhacharita and Saunderananda etc.
Question 9.
Give a brief account of the Early Buddhist scriptures.
Or
What do you know about the Buddhist literature? Explain.
Answer:
The Buddhist literature is an important source of information about Buddhism. Although Buddhist literature has been written in several languages but most of it has been written in Pali and Prakrit. The literature associated with the Hinayana sect of Buddhism has been written in Pali and the literature associated with the Mahayana sect has been written in Sanskrit.
(A) Literature written in Pali
The early Buddhist texts associated with Buddhism were written in Pali. A brief description of the Buddhist texts is as follows :—
1. The Tripitakas : The Tripitakas are the most ancient texts of Buddhism. Their names are Vinayapitaka, Suttapitaka and Abhidhammapitaka. The Tripitakas have an important position in Buddhist literature. Pitaka literally means ‘basket’ in which one can carefully place these texts.
(а) The Vinayapitaka : The Vinayapitaka throws a ample light on the rules associated with the behaviour of the Buddhist monks and nuns. It has three parts
- The Suttavibhanga: It gives the list of crimes committed by the Buddhist monks and nuns and their expiation. These rules are called Patimokkha.
- The Khandhaka: The Khandhaka is divided into two parts Mahavaga and Chullavaga. It gives a detailed description of the Commandments of the Sangha. Besides this, they also discuss the stories related to Lord Buddha.
- The Parivara: This is the last part of the Vinaya Pitaka. It is a summary of the first two parts and it has been written in the form of a question-answer.
(b) The Suttapitaka : It is the most important part of the Tripitakas. It is divided into five sections or parts:
- The Digha Nikaya : It has 34 long sutras which are complete in themselves. It gives a description of the different teachings of Lord Buddha.
- The Majjhima Nikaya : It has 152 sutras which are medium sized. It gives a description of the conversations of Lord Buddha. In the end, it gives the teachings.
- The Sanyutta Nikaya: It has 7762 sutras. There is a description of spiritual issues in this. There are stories of Lord Buddha and other gods-goddesses in it. Besides these, it condemns the opposing religions.
- The Anguttara Nikaya : It has 2308 sutras. Most of it is in prose though a part of it is in poetry form. It gives a description of Buddhism and its philosophy.
- The Khuddaka Nikaya : It discusses about the various subjects pertaining to Buddhism. It has a compilation of 15 different books. These books were written at different times. Popular among them were Khuddak Path, Dhammapada, Jataka and Sutranipat. Khuddhak Path is the smallest composition.
It has 9 sutras in it which were read at the time of diksha. Dhammapada is considered to be the most sacred book related to Buddhism. The Boddhi Dhammapada is- read everyday just as the Japji Sahib is read by the Sikhs and Gita by the Hindus: Dhammapada is popularly known as the Boddhi Gita. It has been translated into several languages of the world. The Jataka describes 549 stories pertaining to the time before the birth of Lord Buddha. Suttanipata was written in the form of a poem. It gives information about the early history of Buddhism.
(c) The Abhidhammapitaka: Abhidhamma implies, ‘Great Teachings’. Most of this text has been written in question-answer form. There is a discussion of spiritual subjects in it. There is a description of 7 books in it. Most popular among them are Dhammasangini and Kathavathu. Dhammasangini is a great creation related to Buddhist psychology. Kathavathu was written by Moggliputta Tissa. It describes the Commandments related to the Sthaviravadin sect of Buddhism.
2. Milind Panho : It is an important work associated with Buddhism. It was written in 100 B.C. in Punjab. It gives an account of the religious conversation between the Greek emperor Minander and the Buddhist monk Nagasena. Ample light has been thrown on the Buddhist philosophy in this work.
3. Dipavansa and Mahavansa : Both these Buddhist texts were created in Sri Lanka. These were written in the 5th century. These Buddhist texts give a description of the Buddhist tales of the area.
4. Mahamangalsutra: In this creation, there is an account of good and evil deeds as given by Lord Buddha. A Buddhist recites this everyday.
(B) Literature written in Sanskrit
Most of the literature related to the Mahayana sect .of Buddhism has been written in Sanskrit. A brief description of the famous Buddhist texts is as follows :
- The Lalitvistara: This is one of the early Buddhist texts related to the Mahayana sect of Buddhism. It gives a description of the life of Lord Buddha in an extremely interesting style.
- The Lankavatara: It is a sacred text of the Mahayanas. The Chinese and Japanese Buddhists recite it everyday.
- The Saddharmapundarika: This text gives a detailed description of the Commendments of the Mahayana sect. It reflects Lord Buddha as the supreme soul who has created this world.
- The Prajnaparamita: It is most popular text of the Mahayana sect. It gives a detailed description of Buddhist philosophy.
- The Avadana Books: These are those books that give an explicit description of the Buddhist saints related to the Mahayana sect, the moral and brave deeds of the pious males and females. Divyavadana and Avadana are the most popular works of this category.
- The Buddha Charita: This text was created by the great poet Ashvaghosha. In this the life of Lord Buddha has been depicted in the form of an epic.
- The Saundrananda: This text was also created by Ashvaghosha. It is a text par excellence. In this, there is a description of those events of Lord Buddha’s life which have been briefly described or not described at all in the Buddha Chrita.
- The Madhyamaksutra: This is the most popular text of the famous Buddhist Nagaijuna. It has emphasised on the fact that this world is a myth.
- The Sikshasamuchchaya: This famous text was created by Shanti Deva. It is a compilation of the teachings of Lord Buddha. These have been extracted from several Mahay ana texts.
- The Bodhicharyavatara: This was also a creation of Shanti Deva. It has been written in the form of a poem. This describes the high ideals of Boddhisattva.
Question 10.
Discuss the origin and development of Buddhism.
Or
Discuss in brief but meaningful the progress made by Buddhism before Ashoka.
Or
Describe in detail the progress made by Buddhism till the time of king Ashoka.
Or
Give introductory information about origin and expansion of Buddhism before Ashoka.
Or
What do you know about the origin and development of Buddhism?
Or
Write a detailed note on the origin and development of Buddhism.
Or
Explain the development of Buddhism before Ashoka.
Answer:
I. Origin of Buddhism
There were many political, social and religious causes responsible for the origin of Buddhism in India in the 6th century B.C. A brief account of these is as follows :
1. Complexity in the Hindu Religion : During the Rigvedic period the Hindu religion was simple but it became more and more complex down the ages. It had lost its splendour and was plagued with multifarious rituals and superstitions. The philosophy of the Upanishads and of the Vedic texts was beyond the comprehension of the common man. As a consequence they were fed up with such a complex religion. The people yearned for a simple religion which could be easily understood by them and inspire them to lead a simple and pious life. According to eminent historian Dr. Satish K. Kapoor, “The Hindu society had lost its splendour and was plagued with multifarious rituals and superstitions.”
2. Expensive Religion : Initially the Hindu religion was popular among the people for its simplicity. But after the later Vedic period there were numerous changes. It started becoming more and more complex. Its main reason was the stress that was laid upon several yajnas and sacrifices. These yajnas continued for many years and heavy expenditure was incurred. The Brahmans were also given large donations. Besides these yajnas there were several other rites and rituals which had to be performed in the presence of these BrahmAnswer: People had to spend heavily on such ceremonies and these expenses were beyond the ordinary people. Thus they became against this religion.
3. Moral Degeneration of the Brahmans : During the Vedic period the Brahmans led a very simple and pure life. But with the passage of time moral degradation crept into their lifestyle. They became corrupt, greedy and cheats. They were always on the lookout to fool gullible people for their own gains and amass large amount of wealth. Besides this they now led a pampered and extravagant life. Hence people now were keen to be free of their influence on society.
4. Caste System : The Indian caste system by the 6th century had become rigid. The people of the higher castes who were also known as Dvij treated the Shudras worse than animals. These people felt defiled even if a Shudra’s shadow fell on them. The Shudras were not allowed to visit the temples, read Vedic literature, participate in yajnas and they were forbidden from even taking water from their wells.
5. Difficult Language : People were also confused due to the Sanskrit language. This language was considered very pure but due to its being very difficult the ordinary man could not understand it. All the religious texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Brahmans, Ramayana, Mahabharata, etc. were written in Sanskrit. Ordinary people were incapable of reading these religious texts. Taking advantage of this situation the Brahmans started interpreting the religious books according to their will. People started looking for such a religion which would be simple and understandable and its texts would be written in an easy language.
6. Belief in Charms and Spells : People by the 6th century B.C. had started believing blindly in certain things. Their belief in spirits, spells and magic, etc. had greatly increased. It was their belief that with the help of magic and spells they could defeat their enemies, find curse for their maladies and also get the desired progeny. Enlightened people now wanted a religion which would free society from these ills.
7. Birth of Great Personalities : In the 6th century B.C. were born several great personalities who freed mankind from the web of blind beliefs and showed it a new path. The names of Mahavira and Gautama Buddha are the most prominent. Their simple teachings were easily understood by the people and greatly influenced them. Large number of people became their disciple’s and later adopted Jainism or Buddhism. Giving an account of this B. P. Saha and K. S. Behera write, “Infact, birth of Jainism and Buddhism gave a new impetus to the people and significantly moulded social and religious life.”
II. Development of Buddhism
Due to untiring efforts of Lord Buddha, the foundation of Buddhism had become strong in the East India. After his death, Buddhist Sangha held Four Great Councils from time to time for compiling the .doctrines of Lord Buddha, for making new laws concerning Sangha and with objects of spreading Buddhism. The different rulers played important role in organising these Councils. Consequently, Buddhism spread not only in India but even in foreign countries.
1. First Great Council 487 B.C.: Immediately after tlie death of Lord Buddha the First Great Council was held at Rajgriha in 487 B.C. Rajgriha was the capital of Ajatshatru, the ruler of Magadha. This Great Council was organised under the patron-age of Ajatshatru. The object of this Council was to compile main teachings of Lord Buddha. 500 Buddhist monks participated in this Great Council. Mahakashyap was its chairman. Tripitakas, Vinaypitaka, Suttapitaka and Abhidhampitaka were written in it.
In Vinaypitaka, there are rules regarding Buddhist monks, teachings of Lord Buddha are contained in Suttapitaka and Buddhist philosophy had been described in Abhidhamapitaka. In this council Ananda, the most devoted disciple of Lord Buddha was exonerated of the charges levelled against him after thorough investigation whereas Channa, his charioteer was punished for his rude behaviour.
2. Second Great Council 387 B.C.: Exactly 100 years after the First Great Coun¬cil the Second Great Council of the Buddhism was held at Vaisali in 387 B.C. This Council was organised by Kalasoka, the ruler of Magadha. 700 Buddhist monks par¬ticipated in this Great Council. Sabhakami was the chairman of this Great Council.4 The reason for the organising this council was that ten rules of the Buddhist Sangha had created controversy among the monks. A debate continued for many days regard¬ing these rules. But the controversy among the monks could not be cleared.
Consequently, the Buddhist monks were split into two sects. Their names were Sthviravadins or Theravadins and Mahasanghikas. Sthviravadins were against the new rules. They did not want any change in the doctrines of Buddha. Mahasanghikas wanted to introduce some changes in the traditional doctrines so that the rigidity of discipline in the Buddhist Sangha may be relaxed to some extent. The Sthviravadins got victorious in this Great Council and Mahasanghika monks were turned out of it.
3. Third Great Council 251 B.C.: After the Second Great Council, Buddhism got divided into 18 branches. Their differences caused a great .set back to the progress of Buddhism. The emperor Ashoka organised the Third Great Council of Buddhism in 251 B.C. in his capital, at Pataliputra in order to re-invigorate Buddhism and to remove the shortcomings which had crept into this religion. One thousand Bud¬dhist monks participated in this Great Council. Moggliputta Tissa was the chair¬man of the Great Council. This Great Council remained in function for nine months. It succeeded to a great extent in removing many of the ills of Buddhism. Those monks were turned out of this Council who did not agree to the principles of Theravadin monks. A scripture named Kathavathu was compiled in this Great Council. The most important decision taken in it was to send the Buddhist preachers to foreign countries.
4. Fourth Great Council 100 A.D. : After the death of the emperor Ashoka, controversies among the Buddhist monks had again increased. Kanishka, the Kushana ruler organised the Fourth Great Council in 100 A.D. at Jalandhar, in order to remove these controversies. Some historians are of the opinion that this Council was organised at Jalandhar. 500 Buddhist monks participated in it. Vasumitra was its chairman.
Vasumitra composed Mahavibhasa which is called an encyclopaedia of Buddhism. Ashvaghosha, an other scholar of this Great Council composed the scripture Buddha Charita. The life of Lord Buddha has been described in it. Buddhism got divided into two main sects, Hinayana and Mahayana because of the controversies in this Great Council. Kanishka patronised the Mahayana sect.
Question 11.
What contribution Maharaja Ashoka made for the development of Buddhism? Discuss.
Or
Discuss the development made by Buddhism during the time of Emperor Ashoka.
Or
Throw light on the contribution of Ashoka to the spread of Buddhism.
Or
Discuss the role of Emperor Ashoka in the development of Buddhism.
Or
Discuss the contribution of Emperor Ashoka in the spread of Buddhism.
Or
Describe the services rendered by Ashoka to the development of Buddhism.
Or
What methods were adopted by Ashoka to spread Buddhism?
Or
How did Emperor Ashoka spread Buddhism?
Or
Describe the spread of Buddhism.
Or
“Buddhism was more developed during the period of Maharaja Ashoka.” Elucidate.
Answer:
Ashoka’s name is very well known for the propagation of Buddhism not only in the Indian history but also in the history of the world. It was as a result of his untiring efforts that the Buddhism soon became the most popular religion of the world. In the words of Dr. D.C. Sircar, “Ashoka was a patron of the Buddha’s doctrine and was responsible for raising Buddhism fftr the status of a local sectarian creed of Eastern India to that of one of the principal religions of the world.”
1. Personal Example : Blood-shed of Kalinga War made a deep impact on the mind of Ashoka. As a result Ashoka adopted the Buddhism after leaving the Hinduism. For the propagation of this religion Ashoka presented his own example before the people. He left all the luxuries of the palace. He stopped eating meat and hunting. He bade farewell to wars for ever and adopted a policy of peace and love. On account of adoption of the principles of Buddhism by Ashoka, there was deep impact on his subjects and they started making efforts to follow his footsteps.
2. Buddhism was declared as the State Religion: With the objective of making Buddhism more popular Ashoka declared it a state religion. As a result people started joining the Buddhism in a large number. Its reason was that at that time people very much respected their king and felt it their pride to obey his orders.
3. Administrative Steps : Ashoka also took some administrative steps for the propagation of the Buddhism. He banned the slaughter of animals during the religious festivals. He also banned the slaughter of animals for the royal kitchen and fixed 56 days in a year when animals could not be slaughtered. He issued edicts regarding the teachings of Buddha from time to time. He also directed his employees to render maxi-mum service to the people.
4. Wide Publicity : Ashoka arranged wide publicity for the propagation of the Buddhism. He got inscribed the principles of Buddhism on edicts, rocks and stones. These were placed along the highways and at conspicuous places so that the passers-by could read them thoroughly. By this way the government publicity proved helpful in popularizing the Buddhism.
5. Dharm Yatras : Ashoka made pilgrimages of all the places connected with the life of Buddha. He made pilgrimage to Lumbini—where-Buddha was bom, Bodh Gaya— where Buddha was enlightened, Samath where Buddha delivered first discourse, Kushinagar where Buddha attained Nirvana. The Buddhism attained further glory on account of these pilgrimages of Ashoka.
6. Appointment of Dhamma Mahamatras : With a view to propagating the Buddhism, Ashoka appointed employees named as Dhamma Mahamatras. They left no stone unturned for the propagation of Buddhism. On this account Buddhism got further fillip.
7. Building of Viharas and Stupas: Ashoka got built Viharas (Buddhist Mathas) throughout the state. The Buddhist scholars and students coming over there were openly patronized by the state. Besides this thousands of Stupas were got built throughout the state. Relics of Buddha were kept in these Stupas. On account of these reasons the Buddhism became more popular.
8. Works of Public Welfare : After adoption of the Buddhism Ashoka spent his whole life to win over the hearts of the people. Ashoka got built roads and got planted shady trees along the roads for providing amenities to subjects. Wells were got dug for drinking water. Inns w§re got built for the facility of passengers throughout the state. Ashoka got opened hospitals not only for human beings but also for animals as well. The Buddhism got an opportunity, directly and indirectly, to expand on account of these deeds of Ashoka.
9. Third Buddhist Council: Ashoka convened Third Buddhist Council of Buddhism in 251 B.C. in Pataliputra to resolve current differences in the Buddhism. 1,000 Buddhist monks had participated in this Council. Moggliputta Tissa was the president of this Council. This Council remained in session for about 9 months. A new treatise Kathavathu connected with Buddhism was written in this Council. This Council remained successful in instilling a new enthusiasm in the Buddhist monks and they started propagating the Buddhism more rigorously.
10. Foreign Missions : Ashoka sent his preachers to foreign countries to propagate the Buddhism. These preachers went to countries like Sri Lanka, Burma, Nepal, Egypt and Syria etc. Ashoka had, sent his daughter Sanghmitra and his son Mahendra to Sri Lanka for preaching. These preachers made a deep impact on the minds of the people and they joined Buddhism in a large number. Dr. R.C. Msyumdar is hilly right in saying, “ He appeared as the torch bearer, who led the gospel from village to village, from city to city, from province to province, from country to country and from continent to continent.”
Question 12.
What is the legacy of Buddhism to Indian Civilization?
Or
Discuss the legacy of Buddhism.
Answer:
Even though Buddhism has disappeared from India yet it left its abiding mark on Indian Civilization and culture. It made important contributions in several spheres.
1. Political Legacy : Buddhism played an important role in preserving political harmony, stability and unity in India. The powerful rulers of that time were deeply influenced by the Buddhist principles of peace and universal brotherhood and they renounced war and devoted that time for the welfare of the people. This established peace in the region and people prospered. Kings like Ashoka and Kanishka also sent missionaries to spread and preach Buddhism in other countries.
They established friendly relations amongst them. However the principles of peace and brotherhood had certain destructive effects also on Indian politics. Due to prolonged peace the Indian soldiers became lethargic and rusted. As a result they could not face foreign invaders and lost their independence and remained under foreign domination for long time.
2. Religious Legacy : Buddhism greatly influenced the Indian religion. Prior to it people had forgotten the original purity of religion. Its place was taken by empty rituals, yajnas, superstitions and sacrifices. Brahmans had gained supremacy in society and without them no ceremony was considered complete. But these Brahmans had become corrupt and greedy. Their main aim was to lead a life of luxury and cheat the people. Thus the Hindu religion had become one of mere show. Buddha vehemently criticised the malpractices prevalent in Hinduism, the unnecessary dominance of the Brahmans and the belief that only Sanskrit was a holy language.
He said that one could conduct religious practices without a Brahman and read the holy books in any common language. Thus Hinduism received a jolt and Buddhism became popular. As a result Hinduism was given a fresh look by Brahmans to regain its lost glory. After the death of Buddha some Buddhist monks started the worship of his idols. Thus was bom the idol worship prevalent to this day.
3. Social Legacy : Buddhism left a deep impact on society. Before the origin of Buddhism, casteism had become very rigid in the society. People of one caste hated those of the other. Shudras were treated in an inhuman manner. Buddha denounced casteism and preached his followers to have feelings of universal brotherhood and love. By admitting people from all castes and religions into Buddhism he gave a new form to Indian society. It infused a new confidence among down-trodden people of society. Influenced by Buddhism people forsook use of wine, meat and became fond of leading a simple and pure life. Later when Hinduism was reformed many Buddhists joined Hinduism. It now included people from various stratas of society. Buddhism thus inaugurated a new era in the society.
4. Cultural Legacy : Buddhism left a deep impression on the cultural life of India. The Buddhist Sanghas were not only for the spread of Buddhism but also became important educational institutions. Universities of Taxila, Nalanda and Vikramshila became internationally famous. Many foreign students came here to study. The Buddhist texts like Tripitakas, Jatakas, Buddhacharita, Mahavibhasa, Milind Panaho etc. gave an invaluable gift to Indian literature. Even in the fields of architecture and sculpture an indelible impact was left. During the time of Ashoka and Kanishka several Stupas and pillars were made. The Stupas at Sanchi and Bharhut are splendid. During the time of Kanishka the Gandhara and Mathura style of art were born.
Beautiful idols in the various forms of the Buddha produced during this time leave one spell bound and display the artistic growth at that time. One can also gauge the growth of art seeing the sculptures in the Ajanta Caves. The Buddhist monks of those times visited countries like China, Japan, Sri Lanka, Burma, Indonesia, Java, Sumatra and Tibet which not only was responsible for the spread of Buddhism but also Indian Civilization to these countries. Even today several Indian customs are prevalent there which is a matter of pride for India. In the end we agree with Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, “Buddhism has left a permanent mark on the culture of India. Its influence is visible on all sides.”
Short Answer Type Questions (Type 1):
Question 1.
Emergence of Buddhism.
Answer:
During the 6th century B.C., many evils were prevalent in the Hindu society and religion. Caste system had acquired a bad form. Shudras were treated worse than animals. The birth of a girl child was now considered a reason of sorrow. Many superstitions prevailed. The expenses of Yajnas and sacrifices had greatly increased. The priests became corrupt and selfish. Hinduism just remained as a commodity with outer show. Due to these reasons, Buddhism emerged.
Question 2.
Give a short account of the life of Lord Buddha.
Answer:
Mahatma Buddha was the founder of Buddhism. He was born T’ 566 B.C. at Lumbini. His mother’s name was Mahamaya and father’s name was Suddhodana. He was married to Yashodhara. He renounced the world at the age 29, At the age of 35, he got enlightenment at Bodh Gaya. For 45 years, he kept preaching his sermon. Its famous centres were Magdha, Kosala, Kosambi, Vaishali i Kapilvastu. At last, in 486 B.C., he left his mortal world at Kushi Nagar.
Question 3.
Lumbini.
Answer:
Lumbini is one of the most sacred places of the Buddhists. Lumbini is situated at Terai in Nepal wihch is 10 kms away from the Punjab Nepal border. It is also called Vartman or Rumindayial. In 566 B.C., Mahatma Buddha was bom on the full moon of Vaisakha. Gods from heaven showered flowers on his birth. King Ashoka got a pillar constructed here in the memory of Lord Buddha. The Chinese writers Fa Hein and Huien Tsang have praised this place in their writings.
Question 4.
Bodh Gaya.
Answer:
Bodh Gaya holds the same place for Buddhists as Harmandir Sahib, Amritsar for the Sikhs, Benaras for Hindus and Mecca for the Muslims. This is situated forwards south of Gaya in Bihar. It is that place where under one peepal tree, Siddhartha ‘ Mahatma Buddha) attained enlightenment. At that time, Siddhartha was 35 years old. This event happened on the full moon of Vaisakha. A 170 ft. high MahaBodhi temple is constructed here.
Question 5.
Samath.
Answer:
Sarnath is another holy pilgrimage of the Buddhists. It is situated 7 km east of Benaras city. It is this place where Mahatma Buddha preached his first sermon to his five old friends. This event is remembered in history as ‘Dharma Chakra Pravartna’. King Ashoka built a very famous pillar here. Many idols of Buddha belonging to Gupta and Kushan dynasties have been found here.
Question 6.
Major Sights.
Answer:
One day along with his coachman Channa, ‘Siddhartha left to see the world outside. On the way he saw an old man, a sick man, a dead man and an ascetic. These sights left a deep impression on his mind and proved a turning point in his life. He realised that the world is full of sorrows. He decided to leave home. This event is known as the Great Renunciation. At that time Siddhartha was 29 years old.
Question 7.
Dharma Chakra Pravartna.
Answer:
After attaining enlightenment, Mahatma Buddha first reached Samath near Benaras. He preached his first sermon to his five old friends here and they became his followers. Here Mahatma Buddha taught them about Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. This event is known as the Dharma Chakra Pravartna.
Question 8.
Teachings of Lord Buddha.
Answer:
The basis of teachings of Lord Budha are Four Noble Truths and Eightfold path. They believed in Transmigration, Karma, Ahimsa and Mutual brotherhood. He inspired his followers to lead a simple and pure life. He did not believe in caste system, yajna, sacrifice, vedas, Sanskrit language and rigorous meditation. He remained silent on existence of God.
Question 9.
What were Lord Buddha’s views about Karma Theory?
Answer:
Buddha believed in the theory of actions or Karma. He believed that one is \e architect of one’s own destiny. A man gets rewards according to his deeds. We get e reward of our past actions in the present life and for the actions in our present we lall get rewards in the future. Karma follows a man like his shadow.
Question 10.
What were Lord Buddha’s views about Morality?
Answer:
Buddha laid great emphasis on morality. He felt that religion without Morality was merely a show. He laid down a code of conduct for his followers:
- Always speak the truth.
- Never steal.
- Do not use intoxicants,
- Stay away from women.
- Stay away from a life of luxury,
- Show no interest in music and dance,
- Stay away from wealth,
- Do not use perfumes,
- Do not covet another’s property,
- Do not hurt anyone.
Question 11.
Lord Buddha’s view about God.
Answer:
Lord Buddha did not believe in the existence and power of God. He said that world has not been created by God. But he believed that a power governs the workings of the world. He named this power ‘Dharma’. He did not want to put his religion in any controversy.
Question 12.
What is meant by Nirvana in Buddhism?
Answer:
According to Buddha the greatest aim of man’s life is to attain Nirvana. Man attains happiness, peace and tranquility through Nirvana. He attains salvation from the cycle of birth and death. It brings an end to sorrows. This condition cannot be described in words. In other religions, Nirvana can only be attained after death but in Buddhism, it can also be achieved during one’s lifetime.
Question 13.
Hinayana.
Answer:
Hinayana was an important sect of Buddhism. Hinayana means a small circle or small chariot. The people of the sect strongly opposed any changes to be brought in the teachings of Lord Buddha. They opposed idol worship. They did not believe in Bodhisattvas. They preached in Pali language. They had separate religious scriptures.
Question 14.
Mahayana.
Answer:
Mahayana was a major sect of Buddhism. Mahayana means big circle or big chariot. This sect did changes in the teachings of Buddha as time advanced. They did believe in Bodhisattvas and idol worship. They emphasized an devotion. They considered worship as an important part of religion. They preached in Sanskrit language. They had separate religious scriptures.
Question 15.
First Buddhist Council.
Answer:
The First Buddhist Council was held at Rajgriha in 487 B.C. by ruler of Magadha. The objective of this council was to collect the teachings of Mahatma Buddha, 500 Bhikshus participated in it. This council was headed by Mahakashyap. The scriptures named Tripitakas were written. In this council, the charges levelled against Mahatma Buddha’s disciple Ananda were enquired into and he was declared innocent.
Question 16.
Second Buddhist Council.
Answer:
The Second Buddhist Council was held in 387 B.C. at Vaisali organised by the ruler Kalasoka. Its aim was to remove the conflict of ideas regarding rules of the 700 monks took part in it. It was led by Sabhakami. The 10 rules adopted by Buddhist monks became a reason for conflict among them. They were divided into two groups Eastern and Western. The eastern monks were called Mahasanghikas and wester monks were called Theravadins.
Question 17.
Third Buddhist Council.
Answer:
The Third Buddhist Council was organised by Emperor Ashoka in 251 B.C. at Pataliputra. Its aim was to eradicate the evils which crept in Buddhism. 1000 monks took part in it. It was headed by Moggliputta Tissa. He prepared a holy text named Kathavathu. It was decided to sent Buddhist preachers to foreign countries. This helped a lot in removing the evils from Buddhism.
Question 18.
Fourth Buddhist Council.
Or
Why was the Fourth Buddhist Council convened?
Answer:
The Fourth Buddhist Council was covened by Emperor Kanishka in the first century at Kashmir. The objective of this council was to remove the conflicts among the Buddhist monks. 600 monks participated in this council. This council was presided by Vasumitra. He prepared the text named Mahavibhasa. The Vice-President of this council was Ashvaghosha. He composed the famous text called Buddha Charita. As a result of efforts of this council, not only the discrepancy ended but also it spread Buddhism in Middle Asia.
Question 19.
What do you understand by Buddhist Sangha?
Answer:
Mahatma Buddha laid the foundation of Buddhist Sanghas in order to consolidate his followers form of a powerful organisation. All men and women above the age of 15 years could become a member of the Buddhist Sangha. Criminal people, people suffering from chronic diseases and slaves could not become members. Prior to membership one had to attain parental permisson. At the time of initiation a new monk had to shave off his hair to wear saffron robes and take the following vow—“I seek refuge in the Buddha, I seek refuge in the Dharma, I seek refuge in the Sangha.” The decisions of the Sangha were taken by majority.
Question 20.
The Tripitakas.
Answer:
The Tripitakas were given a supreme place in Buddhism. They were written in Pali. Their names are Vinayapitaka, Suttapitaka and Abhidhammapitaka. The daily rules of Buddhist monks are mentioned inVinayapitaka, principles of Buddhism in Suttapitaka and spiritual subjects in Abhidhammapitaka. Tripitaka refers to three baskets in which these texts are kept.
Question 21.
Spread of Buddhism.
Answer:
The teachings of Buddhism were very simple. Superstitions had no place in Buddhism. It had a magical effect on people due to its simple and common language. The personality of Mahatma Buddha was very attractive. Whosoever came in contact with him could never break their bond with Buddha. Buddhism became popular because of equality for all religions, untiring efforts of Buddhist Sanghas, royal patronage, changing with time and a lack of opposing religions.
Question 22.
What were the causes of the downfall of Buddhism?
Or
Describe any five causes of the downfall of Buddhism.
Answer:
Many factors were responsible for the downfall of Buddhism. In the beginning, buddhism was a very simple religion. But later it became very complex. The Buddhist anghas became centres of corruption. The Buddhist monks spent their time in merry- aaking and ravishment. The Buddhist sect was divided into several smaller sects. Due to the internal conflict, a lot of problems empted in the propagation of religion. In the beginning they attracted royal patronage which declined with time.
Question 23.
Legacy of Buddhism.
Answer:
Buddhism lent valuable contributions in many fields. It spread the message of peace and non-violence. This led to the beginning of a new era. It opposed the superstitions prevalent in the religion and gave a new light to people. It inspired people to lead a simple and pure life. It condemned caste system and spread the message of universal brotherhood. Buddhism contributed in the field of Buddhist stupas and viharas. Buddhist literature made the Indian literature very rich.
Short Answer Type Questions (Type 2):
Question 1.
What were the reasons of origin of Buddhism?
Answer:
The main cause of origin of Buddhism in 6th century B.C. was the prevalent evils in Hinduism. In later Vedic period, much stress was given on yajnas and superfluous rituals in Hinduism. A large number of Purohits or priests joined these yajnas. They had to be given much charity. In fact, Hinduism had become so expensive that it had gone out of the reach of common people. The Brahmans had become very corrupt and greedy. They engaged themselves in befooling and exploiting the common people on one excuse or the other.
All the scriptures of the Hindus were in Sanskrit language, and as such, they were beyond the comprehension of common people. The caste system had become very complicated. The people of one.caste hated the people of other caste. A grave injustice was done to Shudras. Consequently, they became mentally prepared to convert to other religion. Several rulers of those times gave patronage to Buddhism. Hence Buddhism began to progress rapidly.
Question 2.
Write a short note on Lord Buddha.
Answer:
Lord Buddha was the founder of Buddhism. He was born at Lumbini near Kapilvastu in 566 B.C. The name of his mother was Mahamaya and the name of his father was Shudhodhana. His childhood name was Siddhartha. He was very thoughtful since his childhood. He preferred loneliness. He was married with a beautiful princess at the age of sixteen. A son was bom to them and he was named Rahul. At the age of 29, Siddhartha renounced the world and set out in search of truth. He got enlightenment at Bodh Gaya at the age of 35. He delivered his first sermon at Samath.
This event is known as Dharmachakra Privartana. Lord Buddha continued preaching his sermons for 45 years. Magadha, Kosala, Kosambhi, Vaisali and Kapilvastu were his famous preaching centres. Lord Buddha preached the Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, non-violence and universal brotherhood of mankind- He did not believe in the sanctity of yajnas, sacrifices, caste-system and Sanskrit language. Lord Buddha attained his Mahapamirvana (great salvation) at the age of 80 in Kushinagar.
Question 3.
How and where the Buddha realised Great Enlightenment?
Answer:
After leaving home Siddhartha first went to Rajgriha, the capital of Magadha. Here he became the disciple of two religious preachers Arada Kalama and Udraka ‘ Ramaputra. However he was disillusioned and soon left. He along with five others then went to the forests of Uruvella. Here he did severe penance for 6 years but did not realise his cherished goal. He then went to Bodh Gaya. There he sat in meditation under a peepal tree. After 48 days of meditation on the day of full moon night he got enlightenment. From that day he was known as Buddha or the Enlightened One. The tree under which he attained enlightenment is known as the ‘Mahabodhi Tree.’ He was 35 years old when he got enlightenment.
Question 4.
Discuss briefly the teachings of Lord Buddha.
Or
Explain any six teachings of Buddhism.
Answer:
The teachings of Lord Buddha were very simple and self-explanatory. The Four Great Noble Truths are the basis of his teachings :
- The world is full of sufferings,
- The desires are the cause of these sufferings,
- There can be end to the sufferings of man by giving up his desires,
- These desires can be ended by following Eightfold Path (Ashtamarga). Lord Buddha believed in non-violence.
He believed in doctrine of karma and the cycle of the birth and re-birth. He asserted that a man gets reward according to his deeds. The deeds of a man follow him like his own shadow. Lord Buddha inspired his followers to lead a simple and pure life. He condemned caste-system in strong words. He preached the feelings of universal brotherhood of mankind. He criticized exploitation by the BrahmAnswer: According to him, man cannot attain salvation through yajnas and sacrifices. He did not believe in the sanctity of Vedas and Sanskrit language. He was not in favour of hard penance. He remained silent with regard to the existence of God. According to him, the ultimate aim of a man’s life is to attain Nirvana (salvation).
Question 5.
What is meant by Three Marks in Buddhism?
Answer:
The teachings of Lord Buddha also included the principle of three marks. These three marks area
- All prohibited things are not permanent.
- All prohibited things cause suffering.
- All these prohibited things are not self (Atman) but are non-self (Anatman).
These are our daily experiences. According to Lord Buddha, everything that is bom has a pre-determined end. These are Anit (unstable). What is unstable is also depressed. Man’s birth, disease and death etc. are all reasons for distress. There are some moments of happiness in a man’s life but they are for a very short duration. Anatma implies denial of self. Whatever is unstable is not mine.
Question 6.
Write a short note on Panchsheel.
Answer:
Lord Buddha has prescribed five rules to be followed by the householders. These rules are also called shikshapada. These five rules are as follows:
- Do not kill even the smallest of creatures.
- Donate and receive generously, but do not acquire the other person’s possession by greed or fraud.
- Do not give a false testimony, do not criticise anyone and do not tell a lie.
- Save your soul from intoxicants because they hamper one’s thinking.
- Do not think evil of anyone. Save the body from unnecessary evils. To adopt Buddhism, the monks and nuns had to follow five more rules.
These rules are:
- Eat food on time.
- Stay away from song-dance.
- Do not sleep on soft mattresses.
- Do not use body adornments and fragrance.
- Do not get trapped in the vicious circle of gold and silver.
Question 7.
What is meant by Four Unlimited Virtues in Buddhism?
Answer:
Lord Buddha emphasized on the four social virtues. These virtues are friendliness, kindness, sympathy and neutrality. These help us to coordinate better with other human beings. It puts an end to mutual jealousy. Man should love his enemy too. Kindness inspires us to help the others in sorrow. Sympathetic happiness is a virtue that trains a man to be capable of being a part of other’s happiness. A person who has this virtue does not envy the other person’s happiness. The spirit of neutrality keeps greed and other vices at bay. Such a man treats all humans equally. In fact these four unlimited virtues are the foundation of the moral values of Buddhism.
Question 8.
Write a note on Buddhist Sangha.
Answer:
Any man or woman above the age of fifteen could be the member of Buddhist Sangha. They had to take permission from their family members for becoming a member of the Sangha. Anybody from any caste could become the member of the Sangha, but the criminals, sick people and slaves were not allowed to become members. Before entering the Sangha, every person had to wear three yellow clothes and after ‘mundan’ ceremony he had to pronounce three Ratnas :
- I pledge that I come under the shelter of Buddha,
- I come under the shelter of Dharma.
- I come under the shelter of Sangha. After this, the monks had to follow the ten commandments.
The monk had to take instructions from another monk for teh years and if he succeeded in obeying the rules, he was made a member of the Sangha. Those who did not obey the rules were expelled from the Sangha. The Sanghas were organised on democratic principles.
Question 9.
Write a brief note on the Nirvana in Buddhism.
Answer:
According to Lord Buddha, the highest aim of human life should be the attainment of Nirvana. It is with the attainment of Nirvana that man achieves happiness, pleasure and peace in life. He gets emancipation from the cycle of transmigration. It puts an end to all sorrows. In fact, Nirvana is a state which cannot be described in words. Those who experience this truth do not talk about it and those who talk in this context do not have any knowledge about it. According to Lord Buddha, any person can attain Nirvana by treading on the Eightfold Path. Whereas according to other religions, one can attain salvation after death, in Buddhism its achievement is possible within a lifetime.
Question 10.
Write a note on Hinayana and Mahayana.
Or
Describe the sects Hinayana and Mahayana of Buddhism.
Or
Describe the distinctiveness of Hinayana and Mahayana.
Answer:
During Kanishka’s reign in the 1st century A.D. at Jalandhar, the Fourth Great Council of the Buddhist monks was held. It was in this Great Council that the Hinayana and Mahayana sects were formed. Yana literally means the way to attainment of salvation. Hinayana meant a small vehicle. Mahayana meant a big vehicle. The Hinayanas continued to support the traditional commandments of Buddhism whereas the Mahayanas adopted new principles.
The following were the differences between the Hinayanas and the Mahayanas :
- The Hinayana sect considered Lord Buddha to be a pious soul whereas the Mahayana sect considered him as a form of God.
- The Hinayana sect was against idol worship whereas the Mahayana sect was not against idol worship.
- The Hinayana sect did not believe in the Bodhisattvas. According to them, a person could attain salvation only through one’s effort. No god can help anyone to attain Nirvana. The Mahayanas had complete faith in the Bodhisattvas. Bodhisattvas were those great people who took birth again and again with the objective to help people attain salvation.
- The Hinayana sect preached Buddhism in Pali language which was the language of the common people. The Mahayana sect preached Buddhism in Sanskrit language.
- According to the Hinayana sect, the supreme objective of human life is to attain Nirvana whereas according to the Mahayana sect, the ultimate goal of human life is to acquire the heaven.
- The Hinayana sect had no relation with Hinduism whereas the Mahayana sect adopted several principles of Hinduism with a view to make their religion popular.
Question 11.
What do you know about the Vajrayana sect of Buddhism?
Answer:
A new sect of Buddhism came into existence in Bengal and Bihar in the eighth century B.C. This sect was associated with magic spells and incantations. This sect believed that magical powers could help to attain salvation. The magical powers were called Vajra. Hence the sect was called Vajrayana. Males and females of any caste could join this group. This sect emphasised on the importance of goddesses. It was believed that these goddesses could help to reach the Bodhisattvas. These goddesses were called Tara. ‘Mahanirvana Tantra’ was the most famous religious book of the Vajrayanas.
This religious title of Vajrayanas was also called the Tantrik. The most important Vihara of Vajrayana is situated at Vikramashila in Bihar. The Vajrayana sect allowed its followers to consume intoxicants, meat etc. and sexual pleasures, thus sounding the death knell of Buddhism.
Question 12.
Buddhist Sources.
Answer:
Just like Vedic literature, the Buddhist literature is also quite detailed. The Buddhist literature has been composed in Pali and Sanskrit languages. Tripitakas have the most important position in Buddhist literature. They are the most important and ancient texts of Buddhism. The names of the Tripittakas are Sutpittaka, Vinaypitaka and Abhidhampitaka. The Sutpitaka consists of the sermons of Mahatma Buddha, Vinaypitaka consists of the rules for the Buddhist monks and the Abhidammpitaka gives information about Buddhist philosophy.
The Jataka tales which are 549 in number describe the previous births of Buddha. It gives a description of the religious, social, political and economic condition of Indian-society from third century B.C. to second century B.C. The text Milindpanho gives us important information about the Greek ruler Menander. Kathavathu which was composed by Moggliputta Tissa gives us information about Ashoka. Buddhacharita, Saundaranand and Mahavibhash give us information about the Kushana dynasty. Deepvansha and Mahavansha render light on the relations between India and Sri Lanka.
Question 13.
What are Tripitakas,? What is their historical importance?
Answer:
Tripitakas are the oldest scriptures of Buddhism. Pitaka means “basket’ in which these scriptures were kept safe. Suttapitaka, Vinayapitaka and Abhidhammapitaka are the names of Tripitakas. These were written in Pali language. Suttapitaka has been accepted as the most significant of all Pitakas. The teachings of Lord Buddha have been described in it. It has been divided into five parts—Digha Nikaya, Majjhima Nikaya, Sanyutta Nikaya, Anguttara Nikaya and Khuddaka Nikaya. Description of Dhammapada has been given in Khuddaka Nikaya. Dhammapada is recited daily by Buddhists in the same way as Japji Sahib and Gita are recited by the Sikhs and the Hindus respectively.
The rules of behaviour of the Buddhist monks and nuns have been given in Vinayapitaka. It has also been mentioned therein as to which things are sinful for the Buddhist monks and their mode of penance. Information regarding Buddhist philosophy has been given in Abhidhammapitaka. The study of Tripitakas not only gives us information regarding Buddhism, but it also gives very valuable information of contemporary political, social and economic life.
Question 14.
What do you know about the First Great Council of Buddhism?
Answer:
Immediately after the death of Lord Buddha the First Great Council was held at Rajgriha in 487 B.C. Rajgriha was the capital of Ajatshatru, the ruler of Magadha. This Great Council was organised under the patronage of Ajatshatru. The object of this Council was to compile main teachings of Lord Buddha. 500 Buddhist monks participated in this Great Council. Mahakashyap was its chairman.
Tripitakas, Vinaypitaka, Suttapitaka and Abhidhampitaka were written in it. In Vinaypitaka, there are rules regarding Buddhist monks, teachings of Lord Buddha are contained in Suttapitaka and Buddhist philosophy had been described in Abhidhamapitaka. In this council Ananda, the most devoted disciple of Lord Buddha was exonerated of the charges levelled against him after thorough investigation whereas Channa, his charioteer was punished for his rude behaviour.
Question 15.
Write a short note on the Second Great Council of Buddhism.
Answer:
Exactly 100 years after the First Great Council, the Second Great Council of the Buddhism was held at Vaisali in 387 B.C. This Council was organised by Kalasoka, the ruler of Magadha. 700 Buddhist monks participated in this Great Council. Sabhakami was the chairman of this Great Council. The reason for organising this council was that ten rules of the Buddhist Sangha had created controversy among the monks. A debate continued for many days regarding these . rules. But the controversy among the monks could not be cleared. Consequently, the Buddhist monks were split into two sects.
Their names were Sthviravadins or Theravadins and Mahasanghikas. Sthviravadins were against the new rules. They did not want any change in the doctrines of Buddha. Mahasanghikas wanted to introduce some changes in the traditional doctrines so that the rigidity of discipline in the Buddhist Sangha may be relaxed to some extent. The Sthviravadins got victorious in this Great Council and Mahasanghika monks were turned out of it.
Question 16.
Write a short note on the Third Buddhist Council.
Answer:
After the Second Great Council, Buddhism got divided into 18 branches. Their differences caused a great set back to the progress of Buddhism. The emperor Ashoka organised the Third Great Council of Buddhism in 251 B.C. in his capital, at Pataliputra in order to re-invigorate Buddhism and to remove the shortcomings which had crept into this religion. One thousand Buddhist monks participated in this Great Council. Moggliputta Tissa was the chairman of the Great Council.
This Great Council remained in function for nine months. It succeeded to a great extent in removing many of the ills of Buddhism. Those monks were turned out of this Council who did not agree to the principles of Theravadin monks. A scripture named Kathavathu was. compiled in this Great Council. The most important decision taken in it was to send the Buddhist preachers to foreign countries.
Question 17.
What do you know about the Fourth Great Council?
Answer:
After the death of the emperor Ashoka, controversies among the Buddhist monks had again increased. Kanishka, the Kushana ruler organised the Fourth Great Council in 100 A.D. at Jalandhar, in order to remove these controversies. Some historians are of the opinion that this Council was organised at Kashmir. 500 Buddhist monks participated in it. Vasumitra was its chairman. Vasumitra composed Mahavibhasa which is called an encyclopaedia of Buddhism. Ashvaghosha, an other scholar of this Great Council composed the scripture Buddhacharita. The life of Lord Buddha has been described in it. Buddhism got divided into two main sects, Hinayana and Mahayana because of the controversies in this Great Council. Kanishka patronised the Mahayana sect.
Question 18.
What efforts were made by Ashoka for the spread of Buddhism?
Answer:
Ashoka played a significant role in order to spread Buddhism. Before him, Buddhism was limited to a small number. After embracing this religion, Ashoka infused a new life into it. In order to popularize Buddhism, he declared it state religion. It was preached broadly throughout the kingdom. Mahamatras were appointed to preach Buddhism. Ashoka visited places of pilgrimage related to Buddhism. Stupas and monasteries were got built by him throughout his eihpire. The Third Great Council of Buddhism was convened by him at Pataliputra.
The religious preachers were sent to foreign countries to spread Buddhism. Ashoka’-s son, Mahindra and his daughter, Sanghmitra had gone to Ceylon. Buddhism became a great religion of the world because of great efforts made by Ashoka.
Question 19.
What is the legacy of Buddhism to Indian Civilization?
Answer:
Buddhism has very significant legacy to Indian Civilization. Lord Buddha gave permission to people of all castes to join Buddhism. The position of women improved by allowing them to join Buddhism. He gave the message to people to give up false rituals and to lead a simple life. Lord Buddha laid the foundation of democratic system by establishing the Buddhist Sanghas. The members of these Sanghas were elected through secret ballot by people.
The decisions therein were taken by majority vote. Buddhism gave a rich legacy in the fields of architecture and painting. Gandhara, Mathura and Amravati are famous even today for fine statues of Lord Buddha. We get important information regarding political and social conditions of those times through the Buddhist scriptures. Influenced by Buddhism, many kings like Ashoka, Kanishka and Harsha did their utmost for public welfare works. India established friendly relations with foreign countries by virtue of Buddhism.
Question 20.
Write a short note on Stupas.
Answer:
The Stupas were the symbols of Buddha’s Parinirvana (salvation). They were semi-round domes in which the remains of Lord Buddha were kept in a small room. These stupas had a great artistic importance. The stupa of Amravati in Tamil Nadu and the Bharhut and Sanchi stupas in Madhya Pradesh are excellent work of art. One is surprised to see their art and beauty. The art of carving done on these stupas is equally impressive.
The art work done on the wood could not be preserved for a long time, but the Buddhist sculpture can be seen on the stones of the gateway of Amravati and Sanchi stupas. The events of Buddha’s life have been carved on these. These are concerned with birth, renunciation, attainment of knowledge, Dharamchakra Parivartan and Parinirvana of Lord Buddha.
Answer in One Word to One Sentence:
Question 1.
Who was the founder of Buddhism?
Answer:
Mahatma Buddha.
Question 2.
How old is Buddhism?
Answer:
2500 years.
Question 3.
When was Buddhist religion born?
Answer:
6th century B.C.
Question 4.
Name a cause for the propagation of Buddhism.
Answer:
Complexity in the Hindu religion.
Question 5.
When was Mahatma Buddha bom?
Answer:
566 B.C.
Question 6.
Where was Mahatma Buddha bom?
Answer:
Mahatma Buddha was bom at Lumbini near Kapilvastu.
Question 7.
When and where Lord Budda was bom?
Answer:
Lord Budha was bom in 566 B.C. at Lumbini.
Question 8.
What was the name of the father of Lord Buddha?
Answer:
Suddhodana.
Question 9.
Of which Republic was the Chief, the father of Lord Buddha?
Answer:
Shakya Republic.
Question 10.
What was the name of mother of Lord Buddha?
Answer:
Mahamaya.
Question 11.
How many days after Lord Buddha’s birth his mother died?
Answer:
After seven days.
Question 12.
Who did look after the Lord Buddha?
Answer:
Prajapati Gautmi.
Question 13.
What was the early name of Mahatma Buddha?
Answer:
Siddhartha.
Question 14.
With whom Lord Buddha was married?
Answer:
Yashodhara.
Question 15.
What was the name of son of Lord Buddha?
Answer:
Rahul.
Question 16.
What was the name of the wife and son of Mahatma Buddha?
Answer:
Mahatma Buddha’s wife’s name was Yashodhara and son’s name was Rahul.
Question 17.
Who was Lord Buddha’s coachman (charioteer)?
Answer:
Channa.
Question 18.
How many sights left a deep impression on Lord Buddha’s life?
Answer:
Four.
Question 19.
How old was Lord Buddha at the time of Great Renunciation?
Answer:
29 years.
Question 20.
Who was the first Guru of Lord Buddha after leaving the home?
Answer:
Arada Kalama.
Question 21.
Where was Lord Buddha attained enlightenment?
Answer:
Bodh Gaya.
Question 22.
What was the age of Lord Buddha at the time of enlightenment?
Answer:
35 years.
Question 23.
What is meant by Tathagat?
Answer:
Tathagat implies a person who has attained enlightenment.
Question 24.
Where did Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon?
Answer:
Samath.
Question 25.
Where did the incident of Dharam Chakra Parivartana take place?
Answer:
Samath.
Question 26.
What is meant by Dharam Chakra Parivartana?
Answer:
The enrolement of his five friends to the Buddhist religion by Lord Buddha is called Dharam Chakra Parivartana.
Question 27.
Name any two propagation centres of Lord Buddha.
Answer:
Question 28.
Which were two rulers of Magadha who adopted Buddhism?
Answer:
Question 29.
Where did Lord Buddha obtain Nirvana?
Answer:
Kushinagra.
Question 30.
What was the age of Lord Buddha at the time of Nirvana?
Answer:
80 years.
Question 31.
In which language Lord Buddha preached?
Answer:
Pali language.
Question 32.
In how many Noble Truths, the Buddha religion believed?
Answer:
Four.
Question 33.
State one Noble Truth of Buddhism.
Answer:
World is full of sufferings.
Question 34.
How many marks are explained in Buddhism?
Answer:
Three.
Question 35.
Which principle is meant for householders in Buddhism?
Answer:
Panchsheel.
Question 36.
How is Panchsheel otherwise known as?
Answer:
Panchsheel is also known as shikshapada.
Question 37.
Give any one principle of Panchsheel.
Answer:
Do not kill even the smallest of creatures.
Question 38.
How many Unlimited Virtues are to be followed in Buddhism?
Answer:
Four.
Question 39.
State any one Unlimited Virtue of Buddhism.
Answer:
Man should love his enemy too.
Question 40.
What is the iheaning of Nirvana in Buddhism?
Answer:
Nirvana is that state in which all sufferings come to an end.
Question 41.
What pledge did a monk have to take when he is admitted in Buddhist Sangha?
Answer:
“I take refuge in Buddha, I take refuge in Dharma, I take refuge in Sangha.”
Question 42.
What is minimum age prescribed to join Buddha Sangha?
Answer:
15 years.
Question 43.
How many rules are to followed by members of Buddha Sangha?
Answer:
Ten rules.
Question 44.
Who is forbidden in Buddhist Sangha?
Answer:
Criminals, diseased and slaves.
Question 45.
Name two major sects of Buddhism.
Or
Which are two sects of Buddhism?
Or
In which two sects Buddhism was divided?
Answer:
Hinayana and Mahayana.
Question 46.
What is meant by Hinayana?
Answer:
Hinayana means a small vehicle.
Question 47.
What is meant by Mahayana?
Answer:
Mahayana implies a big vehicle.
Question 48.
Under the reign of which emperor did the Mahayana sect of Buddhism came into existence?
Answer:
Kanishka.
Question 49.
Name the Tripitakas of Buddhist religion.
Answer:
Vinayapitaka, Suttapitaka and Abhidhammapitaka.
Question 50.
In which language are Tripitakas written?
Answer:
Pali language.
Question 51.
In which Pitaka teachings of Buddha are described?
Answer:
Suttapitaka.
Question 52.
Which Pitaka throws light on the rides associated with Buddhist Sangha?
Answer:
Vinayapitaka.
Question 53.
Which issues were touched by Abhidhammapitaka?
Answer:
Buddhist philosophy.
Question 54.
What are the Jatakas?
Answer:
The Jatakas consists tales of the times before the , birth of Lord Buddha.
Question 55.
What is the total number of Jatakas?
Answer:
549.
Question 56.
What is Patimokha?
Answer:
It gives a brief description of rules described in the Vinayapitaka.
Question 57.
Which text in Buddhism is called the Boddhi Gita?
Answer:
Dhammapada.
Question 58.
Which Buddhist text describe the conversation between Nagasena and Greek ruler Minander?
Answer:
Milind Panho.
Question 59.
Which one famous text related to Buddhism was composed in Sri Lanka?
Answer:
Deepvansha.
Question 60.
Name one famous Buddhist text written in Pali language.
Answer:
Tripitakas.
Question 61.
Name one important Buddhist text written in Sanskrit language.
Answer:
Buddha Charita.
Question 62.
Who was the writer of Buddha Charita?
Answer:
Ashvaghosha.
Question 63.
Which famous text was created by Nagarjuna?
Answer:
Madhyamaksutra.
Question 64.
Name the one Avadana Books.
Answer:
Divyanadana.
Question 65.
Which one popular text was written by Shanti Deva?
Answer:
Sikshasamuchchrya.
Question 66.
When was First Council of Buddhism organised?
Answer:
487 B.C.
Question 67.
Where was the First Great Council of Buddhism organised?
Answer:
Rajgriha.
Question 68.
Who presided over the First Great Council of Buddhism?
Answer:
Mahakashyap.
Question 69.
Which ruler organised the First Great Council of Buddhism?
Answer:
Ajatashatru.
Question 70.
Which texts were prepared in the First Great Council of Buddhism?
Answer:
Tripitakas.
Question 71.
When was the Second Great Council of Buddhism organised?
Answer:
387 B.C.
Question 72.
Where was the Second Great Council of Buddhism organised?
Answer:
Vaishali.
Question 73.
Which two sects of Buddhism came into existence in the Second Great Council of Buddhism?
Answer:
Mahasanghik and Theravadins.
Question 74.
Where was the Third Great Council of Buddhism organised?
Answer:
Pataliputra.
Question 75.
When was the Third Great Council of Buddhism organised?
Answer:
251 B.C.
Question 76.
Who presided over the Third Great Council of Buddhism?
Answer:
Mogaliputta Tissa.
Question 77.
Which text was created by Mogaliputta Tissa?
Answer:
Kathavathu.
Question 78.
Which ruler organised the Fourth Great Council of Buddhism?
Answer:
Kanishka.
Question 79.
Where was the Fourth Great Council of Buddhism organised?
Answer:
Jalandhar.
Question 80.
Who was the President of the Fourth Great Council of Buddhism?
Answer:
Vasumitra.
Question 81. Which popular text was composed by Vasumitra?
Answer:
Mahavibhasa.
Question 82.
What is the meaning of Bodhisattva in Buddhism?
Or
What is Bodhisattva?
Answer:
Bodhisattva is the person who takes rebirth’for public welfare.
Question 83.
Which king preached Buddhism?
Answer:
King Ashoka preached Buddhism.
Question 84.
How did Ashoka propagate the Buddhism? Give one example.
Answer:
Emperor Ashoka declared Buddhism as the state religion.
Question 85.
Whom did King Ashoka send to Sri Lanka for the propagation of Buddhism?
Answer:
His daughter Sanghamitra and his son Mahendra:
Question 86.
Who was the organiser of the Third Great Council of Buddhism?
Answer:
King Ashoka.
Fill in the Blanks:
1. Mahatma Buddha was born in …………….
Answer:
506 B.C.
2. Mahatma Buddha was born at …………….
Answer:
Lumbini.
3. The name of the father of Mahatma Buddha was …………….
Answer:
Suddhodana.
4. The name of the mother of Mahatma Buddha was ……………….
Answer:
Mahamaya.
5. The childhood name of Mahatma Buddha was ………………
Answer:
Siddhartha.
6. The name of the wife of Mahatma Buddha was ……………..
Answer:
Yashodhara.
7. At the time of leaving home, Mahatma Buddha was only …………….. old.
Answer:
29 years.
8. Mahatma Buddha got enlightenment at …………..
Answer:
Bodh Gaya.
9. After enlightenment, Mahatma Buddha preached his first sermon at ……………….
Answer:
Samath.
10. Mahatma Buddha got Mahapamirvana at ……………..
Answer:
Kushinagra.
11. Mahatma Buddha got Mahapamirvana in ………………
Answer:
486 B.C.
12. Mahatma Buddha believed in …………….. noble truths.
Answer:
four.
13. The Eight fold path is also called …………… path.
Answer:
Middle.
14. Buddhism believes in ………………… marks.
Answer:
three.
15. Buddhism believes in …………… rules.
Answer:
five.
16. Buddhism emphasize on …………….. social virtues.
Answer:
four.
17. The minimum age of ……………… years was being fixed for becoming the member of Buddhist Sangha.
Answer:
15.
18. The members of the Buddhist Sangha had to obey ………………. commandments.
Answer:
10.
19. During Kanishka’s reign, the ……………. sect was formed.
Answer:
Mahayana.
20. The daily routine of Buddhist Monks and Nuns is fully described in the ……………….
Answer:
Vinayapitaka.
21. The Jataka stories are ……………. in number.
Answer:
549.
22. ……………. the Buddhist text was created in Sri Lanka.
Answer:
Dipavansa.
23. ……………. was the writer of the Buddha Charita.
Answer:
Ashvaghosha.
24. The first Great Council of Buddhism was held in ……………..
Answer:
487 B.C.
25. The First Great Council of Buddhism was organised by ……………
Answer:
Ajatashatru.
26. The Second Great Council of Buddhism was held at ……………..
Answer:
Vaisali.
27. The Third Great Council of Buddhism was held at ………….
Answer:
Pataliputra.
28. ……………… organised the Fourth Great Council of Buddhism.
Answer:
Kanishka.
29. Emperor Ashoka sent his daughter …………….. to Sri Lanka to propagate Buddhism.
Answer:
Sanghamitra.
True Or False:
1. Mahatma Buddha was the founder of Buddhism.
Answer:
True
2. Mahatma Buddha was bom in 546 B.C.
Answer:
False
3. Mahatma Buddha was bom at Lumbipi.
Answer:
True
4. Mahamaya was the wife of Mahatma Buddha.
Answer:
False
5. Four sights left a deep impression on the life of Mahatma Buddha.
Answer:
True
6. Mahatma Buddha was 35 years old at the time of Great Renunciation.
Answer:
False
7. Lord Buddha attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya.
Answer:
True
8. Lord Buddha attained enlightenment on the day of full moon light of Vaishakha.
Answer:
True
9. Mahatma Buddha gave his first sermon at Vaishali.
Answer:
False
10. Lord Buddha obtained Mahaprinirvana at the age of 72.
Answer:
False
11. Mahatma Buddha obtained Nirvana at a place called Kushinagra.
Answer:
True
12. Lord Buddha preached in Pali language.
Answer:
True
13. Buddha religion believed in Five Noble Truths.
Answer:
False
14. Buddhism believed in the Eight Fold Path.
Answer:
True
15. Eight Fold Path is also known as the Middle Path.
Answer:
True
16. Buddha religion believes in ahimsa.
Answer:
True
17. The minimum age of 20 years is fixed to join Buddhist Sangha.
Answer:
False
18. Buddhism has a belief in Panchsheel.
Answer:
True
19. The Mahayana sect of the Buddhism was founded during the reign of Ashoka.
Answer:
False
20. Vajrayana sect of Buddhism was associated with magic spells and mantras.
Answer:
True
21. The Tripitakas texts of Buddhism are written in Sanskrit.
Answer:
False
22. Patimokha consists the rules described for Buddhists.
Answer:
True
23. Dhammapada is known as Boddhi Gita in Buddhism.
Answer:
True
24. Kathavathu was written by Moggliputta Tissa.
Answer:
True
25. Mahavansa, the Buddist text created in China is a sacred book.
Answer:
False
26. Ashvaghosha composed the scripture Buddha Charita.
Answer:
True
27. The Lankavatara is a sacred text of the Mahayanas.
Answer:
True
28. Sabhakami presided over the First Great Council of the Buddhism.
Answer:
False
29. The First Great Council of the Buddhism was organised in 487 B.C.
Answer:
True
30. The Second Great Council of the Buddhism was held at Vaisali.
Answer:
True
31. The Third Great Council of Buddhism was held in 251 B.C.
Answer:
True
32. Mogliputta Tissa was the Chairman of the Fourth Great Council of the Buddhism.
Answer:
False
33. Emperor Ashoka sent his daughter Sanghmitra to China for the propagation of Buddhism.
Answer:
False
Multiple Choice Questions:
1. Which one of the following cause was not responsible for the origin of Buddhism?
(a) Simplicity in the Hindu Religion
(b) Moral degradation of the BrahmAnswer:
(c) Complex caste system
(d) Birth of Great personalities.
Answer:
(a) Simplicity in the Hindu Religion
2. When was Mahatma Buddha born?
(a) 466 B.C.
(b) 566 B.C.
(c) 577 B.C.
(d) 599 B.C.
Answer:
(b) 566 B.C.
3. Where was Lord Buddha born?
(a) Vaisali
(b) Kaushal
(c) Kushinagra
(d) Lumbini
Answer:
(d) Lumbini
4. Who was the father of Lord Buddha?
(a) Suddhodana
(b) Siddhartha
(c) Gautam
(d) None of these
Answer:
(a) Suddhodana
5. What was the name of the mother of Lord Buddha?
(a) Mahamaya
(b) Prajapati Gautami
(c) Yashodhra
(d) Devki.
Answer:
(a) Mahamaya
6. What was the original name of Lord Buddha?
(a) Suddhodana
(b) Vardhman
(c) Siddhartha
(d) Rahul.
Answer:
(c) Siddhartha
7. How many sights impressed Lord Buddha when he decided to leave his home?
(a) 3
(b) 4
(c) 6
(d) 8
Answer:
(b) 4
8. What was the age of Lord Buddha at the time of Great ‘Renunciation?
(a) 25 years
(b) 27 years
(c) 29 years
(d) 35 years.
Answer:
(c) 29 years
9. At which place, Lord Buddha attained enlightenment?
(a) Anga
(b) Rajgriha
(c) Vaisali
(d) Bodh Gaya
Answer:
(d) Bodh Gaya
10. Lord Buddha gave his first sermon at ———
(a) Kapilavastu
(b) Lumbini
(c) Kushinagra
(d) Samath
Answer:
(d) Samath
11. At which place, Lord Buddha obtained Nirvana?
(a) Kushinagra
(b) Kaushal
(c) Videh
(d) Kapilavastu
Answer:
(a) Kushinagra
12. What was the age of Mahatma Buddha at the time of Mahparinirvana?
(a) 45 years
(b) 55 years
(c) 80 years
(d) 85 years
Answer:
(c) 80 years
13. Buddhism believed in how many Noble truths?
(a) 4
(b) 5
(c) 6
(d) 7
Answer:
(a) 4
14. The Eight fold Path is related to which religion?
(a) Jainism
(b) Buddhism
(c) Islam
(d) Zorastrianism.
Answer:
(b) Buddhism
15. Buddhism believed in how many marks?
(a) 3
(b) 4
(c) 5
(d) 6
Answer:
(a) 3
16. Which one of the following is a false statement?
(a) Mahatma Buddha believed in Karma principle.
(b) He believed in universal brotherhood of mankind.
(c) He believed in yajnas and sacrifices.
(d) He had faith in ahimsa.
Answer:
(c) He believed in yajnas and sacrifices.
17. What was the minimum age fixed to join the Buddha Sangha?
(a) 15
(b) 20
(c) 30
(d) 40
Answer:
(a) 15
18. Which one of the following sect is not associated with Buddhism?
(a) Hinayana
(b) Mahayana
(c) Digambara
(d) Vajrayana
Answer:
(c) Digambara
19. Which one of the following text is not related to Buddhism?
(a) Tripitakas
(b) Acharang Sutra
(c) Deepvansha
(d) Saundrananda
Answer:
(b) Acharang Sutra
20. In which language Lord Buddha preached?
(a) Pali
(b) Sanskrit
(c) Hindi
(d) Ardhamagdi.
Answer:
(a)
21. Who was the writer of Buddha Charita?
(a) Lord Buddha
(b) Ashvaghosha
(c) Nagaijuna
(d) Shanti Dev
Answer:
(b) Ashvaghosha
22. Which one of the following book was written in Sri Lanka?
(a) Tripitakas
(b) Deepvansha
(c) Buddha Charita
(d) Lalit Vistara
Answer:
(b) Deepvansha
23. Which one of the following is known as Boddhi Gita?
(a) Jataka
(b) Patimokh
(c) Dhammapada
(d) Mahavansha.
Answer:
(c) Dhammapada
24. What is the total number of tales given in Jatakas of the previous births of Lord Buddha?
(a) 549
(b) 649
(c) 749
(d) 849
Answer:
(a) 549
25. When was the first Great Council of Buddhism organised?
(a) 485 B.C.
(b) 486 B.C.
(c) 487 B.C.
(d) 488 B.C.
Answer:
(c) 487 B.C.
26. Where was the first Great Council organised?
(a) Rajgriha
(b) Lumbini
(c) Kapilavastu
(d) Kushinagra
Answer:
(a) Rajgriha
27. In which council Tripitakas were written?
(a) First Great Council
(b) Second Great Council
(c) Third Great Council
(d) Fourth Great Council
Answer:
(a) First Great Council
28. When was the second Great Council organised?
(a) 384 B.C.
(b) 385 B.C.
(c) 386 B.C.
(d) 387 B.C.
Answer:
(d) 387 B.C.
29. Who organised the Second Great Council of Buddism?
(a) Ajatashatru
(b) Kalasoka
(c) Mahakashyap
(d) Ashoka
Answer:
(b) Kalasoka
30. When was the Third Great Council of Buddhism organised?
(a) 251 B.C.
(b) 254 B.C.
(c) 255 B.C.
(d) 257 B.C.
Answer:
(a) 251 B.C.
31. Where was the Third Great Council of Buddhism organised?
(a) Pataliputra
(b) Vaisali
(c) Rajgriha
(d) Lumbini
Answer:
(a) Pataliputra
32. Who organised the Third Great Council?
(a) Ajatshatru
(b) Ashoka
(c) Harshavardhana
(d) Kanishka
Answer:
(b) Ashoka
33. Who presided over the Fourth Great Council?
(a) Maha Kashyap
(b) Sabakami
(c) Mogalipulta Tissa
(d) Vasumitra
Answer:
(d) Vasumitra
34. Who of the following was sent to Sri Lanka for preaching Buddhism by Emperor Ashoka?
(a) Rahul
(b) Aananda
(c) Aamarpali
(d) Mohindra
Answer:
(d) Mohindra
