Which of the following early Buddhist councils is traditionally associated with the final schism of Buddhism into Sthaviravada and Mahasanghika?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Second Buddhist Council, convened at Vaishali around a century after the Buddha's parinirvana, witnessed the first major schism leading to the emergence of Sthaviravada and Mahasanghika. The First Council focused on codifying teachings, whereas the Third Council under Ashoka sought to purge heretical elements. This council was convened to resolve disputes over monastic discipline regarding the ten points of vinaya.