UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2016

With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: 1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism. 2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment. 3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 2 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer

Correct Answer

2 and 3 only

Explanation

The Bodhisattva concept, central to Mahayana (not Hinayana) Buddhism, refers to a compassionate being progressing toward enlightenment who delays their own salvation to help all sentient beings, making statements 2 and 3 correct and statement 1 incorrect.

Topics: art and culture, bodhisattva concept, buddhism, religion