Question

Which of the following was the cause of the decline of Buddhism?

• A. Buddhism was founded by a prince
• B. Corruption crept into Buddhist monasteries
• C. Buddha and Mahavira were contemporaries
• D. Buddha preached non-violence

Answer 1

The correct option is B Corruption crept into Buddhist monasteries

With the passage of time, Buddhism became unpopular among people. There were several reasons behind this decline:

(1) Unlike earlier, Buddhist Sangha became corrupted and monks started to live luxurious life and became greedy and materialistic

(2) During the reign of Kanishka, Buddhism had been split into several groups

(3) As Buddhism became popular due to rigid rules, rituals, and traditions of Hinduism but later on Hindu religion reformed its rituals and practices and made it easier to follow.

(4) Shunga dynasty gave patronage to Hindu religion and later Gupta rulers did the same.