Ancient Indian History

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option a

Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: In the Hinayana tradition, the primary aspiration is to achieve the state of an Arhat—an individual who attains Nirvana in their current lifetime. This pursuit emphasizes personal liberation and is often viewed as self-centered, focusing on one's own salvation without direct concern for the well-being of others. Mahayana sect focuses on concern for the well-being of others through the concept of Bodhisattva

Statement 2 is correct: The Hinayana sect holds that achieving the status of a Bodhisattva signifies becoming a supreme "cosmic helper" or savior dedicated to the liberation of humanity. People began to seek guidance from these enlightened beings on their spiritual path to freedom. This belief also reshaped the understanding of the Buddha, portraying Gautama as one among a lineage of Buddhas, all connected to the eternal Buddha, the Dharmakaya which is similar to the Hindu concept of Brahma manifesting as Vishnu or Shiva. The tradition acknowledges five principal Buddhas, with Gautama as one of them, while Maitreya is expected to be the future Buddha.

Statement 3 is not correct: The concept of Bodhisattva is a core principle of the Mahayana sect, unlike the Hinayana sect. In Mahayana Buddhism, the ideal is the Bodhisattva,an enlightened being who, out of compassion, vows to aid all beings in attaining liberation. This contrasts with the Hinayana tradition, where the ultimate goal is to become an Arhat, focused on personal enlightenment.