Question

Which Buddhist school is known for the doctrine of 'Sunyata' (Emptiness) as propounded by Nagarjuna?

• A. Theravada
• B. Mahayana
• C. Vajrayana
• D. Hinayana

Hint:

Nagarjuna’s philosophy of Sunyata forms the foundation of the Madhyamaka school within Mahayana Buddhism.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: The doctrine of Sunyata (Emptiness) is a central philosophical concept in Mahayana Buddhism. It was systematically developed by the great Buddhist philosopher Nagarjuna, who founded the Madhyamaka (Middle Way) school. Sunyata teaches that:

• All phenomena are empty of inherent, independent existence
• Things exist only in dependence on causes and conditions
• This idea is closely related to Pratityasamutpada (dependent origination)

Step 1: Understand the doctrine.
Emptiness does not mean nothing exists; rather, it means nothing exists independently or permanently.
Step 2: Identify the associated school.
The concept of Sunyata is a hallmark of Mahayana Buddhism, especially in the Madhyamaka tradition.
Step 3: Analyze the options.

• Theravada – emphasizes original teachings, less focus on Sunyata
• Mahayana – emphasizes Sunyata (correct)
• Vajrayana – later development, includes tantric practices
• Hinayana – term historically used for early schools

Step 4: Select the correct answer.
Thus, the Mahayana school is associated with the doctrine of Sunyata.