Question

Buddhism was divided into Mahayana and Hinayana during the reign of _____.

• A. Ashoka
• B. Kanishka
• C. Menander
• D. Harsha

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Kanishka

During the reign of Kanishka dispute arose in Buddhism. These disputes led to the division of Buddhism. During the reign of Kanishka, the fourth Buddhist council was held at Kundalvana in Kashmir to settle the disputes among different sects . After the discussions Buddhism was divided into two major sects named as Hinayana and Mahayana.

Hinayana - It was an old form of Buddhism. This sect considered Buddha as a pious man. Followers of this sect were against idol worship. This sect used Pali language to educate the people.

Mahayana - Its followers considered Buddha as God. This sect was in favour of idol worship. Its followers used Sanskrit language to educate the people.