Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

General Test

Chapter

General Knowledge

Topic

Ancient History

Question:

Buddhism was divided into Mahayana and Hinayana during the reign of which King?

Options:

Bimbisara

Kanishka

Ajatshatru

Ashoka

Correct Answer:

Kanishka

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option 2- Kanishka

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

Kanishka was a Kushan king who ruled from 127 to 151 CE. He was a great patron of Buddhism and is credited with convening the Fourth Buddhist Council, which helped to standardize Buddhist doctrine and practice. It was at this council that the Mahayana and Hinayana schools of Buddhism began to emerge.

The Mahayana school is characterized by its emphasis on the bodhisattva ideal, which is the pursuit of enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. The Hinayana school, on the other hand, is more focused on individual liberation from suffering.