Context:
Prime Minister of Thailand has gifted a copy of Tipitaka in Pali language to the Indian Prime Minister on his ongoing visit
Tripitakas:
- Collection of 3 sets (baskets) of Buddhist texts, primarily in the Pali language
- Forms the foundation of Theravada Buddhism
| Pitaka | Meaning | Content | Time Period of Formation |
| Vinaya Pitaka | Basket of Discipline | Contains rules and regulations for monks and nuns in the Sangha (monastic community). Includes ethical codes and procedures. | 1st Buddhist Council (483 BCE) |
| Sutta Pitaka | Basket of Discourses | A collection of teachings and discourses attributed to the Buddha, covering various aspects of life and enlightenment. | 1st Council (483 BCE), Revised in 2nd (383 BCE) |
| Abhidhamma Pitaka | Basket of Higher Doctrine | Explores the philosophical and psychological aspects of the Buddha’s teachings, focusing on deep analysis and theories. | 3rd Buddhist Council (250 BCE) |
Theravada Buddhism:
- “Theravada” means “Doctrine of the Elders.”
- Oldest school of Buddhism
- Primarily practiced in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia.
- Stresses self-discipline, meditation, and ethical conduct to achieve enlightenment.
- Believes in the concept of Arhat (worthy one), who attains liberation by eradicating all defilements.
- The Buddha is considered a teacher and not a god, rejecting the idea of divine intervention.
- Monasticism is central to Theravada practice; Monks (bhikkhus) and nuns (bhikkhunis) follow strict rules as per the Vinaya Pitaka.
- Reveres the Pali Canon, considered the most authentic record of the Buddha’s teachings.
- Focuses heavily on simplicity and adherence to the early texts.
- More conservative and traditional compared to Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism.
- Does not emphasize Bodhisattvas (future Buddhas) like Mahayana Buddhism does.
Source: PMI
Previous Year Question
With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:
1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.
2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.
3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered Mahayana Buddhism.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
[UPSC Civil Service Exam – 2020 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
Statement 1 is not correct: Sthaviravadins belong to the Theravada Buddhism.