MasteryExams
History • Ancient IndiaMedium

Which of the following Buddhist councils is historically associated with the formal schism that split the community into the Sthaviravada and Mahasanghika traditions?

A. First Buddhist Council
B. Second Buddhist Council✓ Correct Answer
C. Third Buddhist Council
D. Fourth Buddhist Council

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Second Buddhist Council, held at Vaishali under the patronage of King Kalasoka, resulted in the historical schism that permanently divided the monastic community into the Sthaviravada and Mahasanghika factions. The First Council focused on compiling teachings, while the Third Council compiled the Abhidhamma Pitaka. This schism laid the groundwork for future sectarian developments in Buddhism.

🚩 Report a problem