Q. With reference to the major schools of Buddhism, consider the following statements:
1.The Hinayana/Theravada school, often referred to as the ‘School of Elders’, uses Pali as its primary canonical language.
2.Vajrayana Buddhism, which developed in Tibet, emphasizes magical power and the help of female Bodhisattvas for salvation.
3.The central concept of Mahayana Buddhism is the Arhat, who strives to attain individual salvation and exit the cycle of rebirth.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: B
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. Hinayana/Theravada is the ‘School of Elders’ and uses the language Pali.
- Statement 2: Correct. Vajrayana (Diamond Vehicle) developed in Tibet, and salvation is sought through magical power and the help of female Bodhisattvas.
- Statement 3: Incorrect. The central concept of Mahayana Buddhism is the Bodhisattva, a being who delays their own nirvana to help others. The central concept of Hinayana/Theravada is the Arhat.
