Question

To which sect Ajanta’s most of the paintings belong?

1. Mahayana sect of Buddhism
2. Hinayana sect of Buddhism
3. Vajrayana sect of Buddhism
4. Hinayana and Vajrayana sects of Buddhism

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Mahayana sect of Buddhism

• Explanation:
  Most of the paintings in the Ajanta Caves belong to the Mahayana sect of Buddhism, which emphasizes the depiction of the Buddha in human form and his life stories (Jataka tales). These caves also include depictions of Bodhisattvas, which are a hallmark of Mahayana Buddhism.

While earlier caves and stupas in Ajanta are associated with Hinayana Buddhism (which did not depict the Buddha in human form but through symbols), the majority of the later and more elaborate paintings and sculptures belong to the Mahayana tradition.