Which Buddhist council was not held in Bihar?

Question

Which Buddhist council was not held in Bihar?

1. A. First
2. B. Second
3. C. Third
4. D. Fourth (Correct answer)

Correct Answer

Option D — Fourth

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is Fourth.

Key Points

• The Fourth Buddhist Council was not held in Bihar.
• It took place in Kashmir (at Kundalvana), under the patronage of the Kushana emperor Kanishka in the 1st century CE, presided over by Vasumitra with Ashvaghosha as vice-president.
• This council led to the formal split of Buddhism into the Mahayana and Hinayana schools.
• The first three councils were all held in territory that is part of modern Bihar:
• The First Council was held at Rajgriha (Rajgir) in 483 BCE, soon after the Buddha's death, under the patronage of Ajatashatru and presided over by Mahakassapa, where the Vinaya and Sutta Pitakas were compiled.
• The Second Council met at Vaishali in 383 BCE under Kalasoka, resulting in the split between the Sthaviravadins and Mahasanghikas.
• The Third Council was held at Pataliputra in 250 BCE under Ashoka, presided over by Moggaliputta Tissa, which compiled the Abhidhamma Pitaka.

Exam Tip

• memorise venue, patron and president for each council.

प्रश्न (हिन्दी में)

कौन–सी बौद्ध संगीति बिहार में आयोजित नहीं की गई थी?

1. A. प्रथम
2. B. द्वितीय
3. C. तृतीय
4. D. चतुर्थ