Question

With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:

1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.

2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.

3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered Mahayana Buddhism.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer 1

(b) 2 and 3 only

Fourth Council convened in Kashmir under the patronage of Kanishka. It resulted into division of all the Buddhists into two major sects

Sarvastivadins (popular in Kashmir and Mathura regions) and Mahasanghikas together forming the Mahayanists (followers of the Greater Vehicle),

Sthaviravadins and others forming the Hinsyanista (followers of the Lesser Vehicle),

Thus, Sthaviravadins is not part of Mahayana. 

So. 1 wrong. 

The Mahasanghikas gave rise to the following sects:

1.Ekavyaharikas 

2 Lokottaravadins 

3. Kukkuitikas 

4. Bahusrutiya 

5. Prajnapativadine 

6. Chaitya-sailas 

7. Apara- sailas 

8. Uttara-sailas.

 So, 2 is right, hence answer "b".