Which of the following statements with regard to the concept of an Arhat in Buddhism is/are correct? 1. Arhat is an individual who has eradicated all spiritual afflictions. 2. Attainment of Arhatship as the ultimate spiritual ideal is central to Mahayana Buddhism. Select the answer using the code given below: |ForumIAS

[A] 1 only

[B] 2 only

[C] Both 1 and 2

[D] Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Notes:

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: In early Buddhist traditions, an Arhat (Worthy One) is a person who has attained enlightenment, eradicated all mental impurities (Kleshas), destroyed ignorance, and secured freedom from future rebirths.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The Arhat ideal is the central goal of Theravada / Hinayana Buddhism. In contrast, Mahayana Buddhism criticizes the Arhat path as an individual or selfish liberation, prioritizing instead the ideal of the Bodhisattva who delays personal Nirvana to liberate all sentient beings.