Buddhism MCQs by CIKSHA

Buddhism, founded in the 5th to 4th century BCE by Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, is a significant religious and philosophical tradition with global influence. Originating in ancient India, Buddhism teaches a path to enlightenment through the understanding of suffering and the pursuit of Nirvana—liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Central to Buddhism are the Four Noble Truths, which outline the nature of suffering and the Eightfold Path, a guide to ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom.

For UPSC and other government exams, understanding Buddhism is crucial due to its impact on Asian cultures, historical development, and global interactions. The three main traditions—Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana—each offer unique perspectives and practices. Theravada focuses on monastic life and the Pali Canon, Mahayana emphasizes the Bodhisattva ideal, and Vajrayana incorporates esoteric rituals, often associated with Tibetan Buddhism. Knowledge of Buddhism’s historical evolution, key concepts, and influence on societies is essential for a comprehensive understanding of South and Southeast Asian history and culture, making it a relevant topic for civil service examinations and other competitive tests.

Try to answer each Buddhism MCQs.

Question 1 (UPSC Prelims 2020):
With reference to 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 the Mahayana Buddhism.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Question 2: Which of the following statements about the Buddha's life are true?

1. Siddhartha Gautama was born in Lumbini.
2. He attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya.
3. He delivered his first sermon at Sarnath.
4. He was born as a prince in the city of Varanasi.

Question 3:
Consider the following Buddhist councils:

1. The First Council was held shortly after the Buddha's death in Rajgir.
2. The Second Council took place in Vaishali.
3. The Third Council was convened by Emperor Ashoka in Pataliputra.
4. The Fourth Council was held in Kashmir under the patronage of Kanishka.

Question 4:
Which of the following texts are part of the Pali Canon?

1. Vinaya Pitaka
2. Sutta Pitaka
3. Abhidhamma Pitaka
4. Lotus Sutra

Question 5:
Identify the correct statements regarding the Four Noble Truths:

1. The first truth is the truth of suffering (Dukkha).
2. The second truth is the truth of the origin of suffering (Samudaya).
3. The third truth is the truth of the cessation of suffering (Nirodha).
4. The fourth truth is the truth of the path leading to the cessation of suffering (Magga)

Question 6:
Which of the following is NOT associated with Mahayana Buddhism?

1. The Bodhisattva ideal
2. The Tripitaka
3. The Lotus Sutra
4. The Avalokiteshvara

Question 7:
Which of the following rulers were known for their support of Buddhism?

1. Ashoka
2. Chandragupta Maurya
3. Kanishka
4. Harsha

Question 8:
Which of the following were key factors in the spread of Buddhism across Asia?

1. The patronage of Indian emperors
2. Trade routes like the Silk Road
3. The missionary activities of Buddhist monks
4. The development of Sanskrit as a language of scripture

Question 9:
Consider the following statements about the Jataka Tales:

1. They are stories of the Buddha's previous lives.
2. They are a part of the Vinaya Pitaka.
3. They illustrate the practice of moral virtues.
4. They are primarily used in Theravada Buddhism.

Question 10:
Which of the following statements are true about the Buddhist concept of "Anatta" (non-self)?

1. It denies the existence of a permanent self.
2. It is a core teaching in Theravada Buddhism.
3. It is synonymous with the concept of "Atman" in Hinduism.
4. It is a principle discussed in the Abhidhamma Pitaka

Question 11:
Which of the following Buddhist festivals are correctly matched with their respective traditions?

1. Vesak - Theravada Buddhism
2. Losar - Tibetan Buddhism
3. Bodhi Day - Zen Buddhism
4. Saga Dawa - Mahayana Buddhism

Question 12:
Identify the correct statements about the Buddhist monastic code:

1. It is known as the Vinaya Pitaka.
2. It includes rules for both monks and nuns.
3. It was established by Emperor Ashoka.
4. It is one of the three baskets of the Tripitaka