Hinayana Buddhism: -It did not accept most of the beliefs and practices of Mahayana Buddhism. -They believed in the strict adherence of the teaching of Buddha. -They also rejected the practice of Idol worship and emphasised worship based on reason and self analysis....

Mahayana Buddhism: -It originated in the Andhara region in 1st century B.C. -It became a recognisable form at the time of Kanishka. -It gained much popularity after the advent of Nagarjuna, the most outstanding proponent of Mahayana. -The Mahayana preached that every human being could aspire to buddhahood and could attain it through various stages of Bodhisattva. one could become Bodhi...

Causes behind spread of Buddhism: -Buddhism did not recognise the existence of God and Soul (atman).The teachings of Buddha were practical and simple therefore it appealed to the common people. -Buddhism attacked the evils the Verna System. People were taken into Buddhist order without any consideration of cast. women were also admitted to the Sangha. Therefore, it had a popular appeal. -...

Fourth Buddhist Council: -It was held in the 1st century A.D at Kundalavan in Kashmir during the reign of Kushan ruler Kanishka. -Vasumitra was the President and the Asvaghosa was the Vice President of the Council. -The purpose of the council was to settle:- --The difference among the 18 sects of Buddhism, --codification of sarvastivadin doctrines as Mahavibhasa, --And the spread of...

Third Buddhist Council: -Held at Pataliputra under the patronage of Mauryan ruler Asoka. -Chief monk was Mogaliputta Tissa. -Sent Buddhist missionaries to other countries. -Objective was to purify the Buddhist movement from opportunistic factions. -Origin of Theravada school....