Question

Which Buddhist Council was held during the reign of Kanishka in Kashmir?

• A. First Buddhist Council
• B. Second Buddhist Council
• C. Third Buddhist Council
• D. Fourth Buddhist Council

Hint:

Kanishka → Fourth Buddhist Council → Kashmir → Mahayana development.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: Buddhist Councils were important assemblies held to preserve and propagate the teachings of the Buddha and to resolve doctrinal disputes.
Step 1: Understanding the Fourth Council.
The Fourth Buddhist Council is associated with the Kushan ruler Kanishka.
Step 2: Location and time.
It was held in Kashmir (Kundalvana) during the 1st--2nd century CE.
Step 3: Significance.

• Compilation and systematization of Buddhist texts
• Associated with the development of Mahayana Buddhism

Step 4: Eliminating other options.

• First Council: Held at Rajgriha under Ajatashatru
• Second Council: Held at Vaishali
• Third Council: Held at Pataliputra under Ashoka

Step 5: Conclusion.
Thus, the Fourth Buddhist Council was held during Kanishka’s reign.