Question

In which city was the Third Buddhist Council held under the patronage of Emperor Ashoka?

• A. Rajgir
• B. Vaishali
• C. Pataliputra
• D. Sarnath

Hint:

A simple way to remember: 1st–Rajgir, 2nd–Vaishali, 3rd–Pataliputra, 4th–Kashmir (commonly accepted tradition).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: The Buddhist Councils were important assemblies held to preserve and propagate the teachings of Buddha. The Third Buddhist Council was convened during the reign of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE.
Step 1: Understand the purpose of the Third Council.
The council aimed to:

• Purify the Buddhist Sangha by removing corrupt practices
• Compile and systematize Buddhist teachings
• Promote the spread of Buddhism beyond India

Step 2: Identify the location.
The Third Buddhist Council was held at Pataliputra, the capital of the Mauryan Empire (modern-day Patna).
Step 3: Analyze the other options.

• Rajgir – site of the First Buddhist Council
• Vaishali – site of the Second Buddhist Council
• Pataliputra – site of the Third Buddhist Council (correct)
• Sarnath – place of Buddha’s first sermon