Consider the following statements :
Statement - I:
A new form of Buddhism developed during the rule of King Kanishka.
Statement II:
Mahayana Buddhism had two distinct features; Buddha's presence was depicted through signs and the belief in Bodhisattvas.
Options :

Correct option is D

Statement I is correct as a new form of Buddhism, known as Mahayana Buddhism, did indeed emerge during the reign of King Kanishka , who was a significant patron of Buddhism. The fourth Buddhist council, organized by Kanishka, helped formalize Mahayana doctrines. Mahayana introduced new philosophical ideas and practices, including the worship of Buddha as a god-like figure.

However, Statement II is incorrect because it inaccurately describes the features of Mahayana Buddhism. Mahayana did not emphasize Buddha’s presence through signs; rather, it portrayed Buddha in anthropomorphic (human-like) forms, such as statues and paintings. In contrast, earlier forms like Theravada Buddhism used symbols (e.g., the Bodhi tree, footprints) to represent Buddha. Additionally, Mahayana Buddhism introduced the Bodhisattva concept, wherein enlightened beings delayed their nirvana to help others achieve it.

Information Booster:

·       Mahayana Buddhism emerged during King Kanishka’s reign, emphasizing the divine aspect of Buddha.

·       Bodhisattvas became central to Mahayana teachings, exemplifying compassion.

·       Anthropomorphic depictions of Buddha were introduced in Mahayana, replacing earlier symbolic representations.

·       Kanishka's patronage greatly expanded Buddhism, especially in Central Asia.

·       Mahayana also involved the use of new texts like the Lotus Sutra.

Additional Knowledge:

·       Statement I: It is true that during King Kanishka's rule, Mahayana Buddhism developed and was institutionalized through the Fourth Buddhist Council. Kanishka’s efforts led to the spread of this form of Buddhism across Central Asia, China, and beyond.

·       Statement II: This statement is incorrect. Mahayana Buddhism did not represent Buddha through signs but through human-like depictions. Signs or symbols were a feature of Theravada Buddhism (the earlier form of Buddhism), where Buddha was represented through non-human symbols like the Dharma Wheel or Bodhi tree.

·       Bodhisattvas: Mahayana Buddhism introduced the concept of **Bodhisattvas**, beings who remain in the world to help others achieve enlightenment, a major doctrinal difference from earlier forms of Buddhism.

·       Theravada Buddhism: This earlier form of Buddhism focused on individual enlightenment and did not emphasize Bodhisattvas or depict Buddha in human form, preferring symbolic representations.