By the first century C.E., there is evidence of changes in Buddhist ideas and practices.

From the options given below, identify the practice which was part of this development.

The concept of Boddhisatta developed.

The correct answer is Option (4) → The concept of Boddhisatta developed.

The development of the concept of the Bodhisattva in the first century C.E. is significant in the context of Buddhist ideas and practices because it represents a shift in the understanding of spiritual goals and the path to enlightenment.

By the first century CE, there is evidence of changes in Buddhist ideas and practices. Early Buddhist teachings had given great importance to self-effort in achieving nibbana. Besides, the Buddha was regarded as a human being who attained enlightenment and nibbana through his own efforts. However, gradually the idea of a saviour emerged. It was believed that he was the one who could ensure salvation. Simultaneously, the concept of the Bodhisatta also developed. Bodhisattas were perceived as deeply compassionate beings who accumulated merit through their efforts but used this not to attain nibbana and thereby abandon the world, but to help others. The worship of images of the Buddha and Bodhisattas became an important part of this tradition. This new way of thinking was called Mahayana – literally, the “great vehicle”. Those who adopted these beliefs described the older tradition as Hinayana or the “lesser vehicle”.