Q. Which of the following statements with regard to the doctrines of Gautama Buddha is/are correct?
1.Buddha’s teachings were skilful means and should be treated like a raft to cross a river rather than an absolute dogmatic truth to cling to.
2.The primary teachings and discourses of the Buddha were composed in high Classical Sanskrit to maintain structural precision against Vedic texts.
Select the answer using the code given below:
Answer: A
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: The Buddha described his teachings using the raft parable (Kullupama Sutta), explaining that his doctrines were pragmatic tools (Upaya) meant for attaining liberation (Nirvana), not dogmas to be attached to once the goal is reached.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: Gautama Buddha intentionally preached in Pali, the vernacular languages of the common people in the Middle Gangetic Plain, rejecting the exclusive use of Vedic Sanskrit to ensure universal accessibility.
