Question

In which Buddhist Council were the two groups of Buddhism, i.e., the Mahayana and Hinayana, recognized?

1. First Buddhist Council
2. Second Buddhist Council
3. Third Buddhist Council
4. Fourth Buddhist Council

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Answer:
4. Fourth Buddhist Council

Explanation:

• The Fourth Buddhist Council was held in Kashmir during the reign of King Kanishka of the Kushan dynasty in the 1st century CE.
• It was in this council that the Mahayana and Hinayana sects of Buddhism were formally recognized as separate schools of thought.
• The Mahayana focused on the concept of the Bodhisattva and universal salvation, while Hinayana adhered to the original teachings of the Buddha.

Source:

• National Museum of India - Buddhist History
• CCRT India on Buddhism