Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

General Test

Chapter

General Knowledge

Topic

Ancient History

Question:

The first Buddhist council was held during the reign of which of the following kings at Rajgriha?

Options:

Kalashoka

Ashoka

Ajatshatru

Bimbisara

Correct Answer:

Ajatshatru

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option 3- Ajatshatru

The first Buddhist council was held during the reign of King Ajatshatru in Rajgriha, India.

King Ajatashatru was the son of King Bimbisara, who was a close friend and supporter of the Buddha. Ajatashatru himself was not a Buddhist, but he respected the Buddha's teachings and allowed the Buddhist community to flourish in his kingdom.

The first Buddhist council was held shortly after the Buddha's death in 483 BCE. It was convened to unify the Buddhist community and to establish the canon of Buddhist scriptures. The council was presided over by Mahakasyapa, one of the Buddha's most senior disciples.

Buddhist Councils: Location and Presiding Figures

First Council:
Location: Sattapanni Caves, Rajgriha (present-day Rajgir)
Patronage: King Ajatashatru
Presided by: Mahakassapa (monk)

Second Council:
Location: Vaishali
Patronage: Uncertain
Presided by: Uncertain (possibly several elders)

Third Council:
Location: Pataliputra (present-day Patna)
Patronage: Emperor Ashoka
Presided by: Moggaliputta Tissa (monk)

Fourth Council:
Location: Kundalvana, Kashmir
Patronage: King Kanishka
Presided by: Vasumitra and Ashvaghosha (monks)