Which of the following statements with regard to Theravada Buddhism is/are correct? 1. It represents continuation of the early Sthaviravada lineage, focusing on individual liberation through Arhatship. 2. It accepts the Tripitaka as its primary and authoritative scriptural body. 3. It expanded across East Asia, becoming the dominant state religion in Tang-era China, Korea, and Japan. Select the answer using the code given below: |ForumIAS

[A] 1 and 2 only

[B] 2 and 3 only

[C] 1 only

[D] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Notes:

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Theravada (Way of the Elders) traces its lineage directly back to the early Sthaviravada school established after the Second Buddhist Council, upholding personal Arhatship.
Statement 2 is correct: Theravada exclusively recognizes the Pali Canon (Tipiṭaka, comprising Vinaya, Sutta, and Abhidhamma) as its scriptural authority.
Statement 3 is incorrect: Theravada spread predominantly across South and Southeast Asia (Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos). East Asia (China, Korea, and Japan) adopted Mahayana Buddhism.