The worship of images of Buddha became an important tradition in:

Correct option is C

​The correct answer is (c) Mahayana

Explanation:

• The Mahayana school of Buddhism emphasized the worship of images and idols of Buddha as a central practice.
• Unlike the earlier Hinayana tradition, which focused on self-discipline and individual enlightenment, Mahayana Buddhism encouraged devotion to Bodhisattvas and the veneration of Buddha’s statues and images as a means of spiritual connection.

Information Booster:

Various Sects of Buddhism

After Buddha’s death, doctrinal differences led to distinct sects within Buddhism.

Early Divisions

• 2nd Buddhist Council (383 BCE, Vaishali):
• Sthaviravadins – Strict adherence to the Vinaya code.
• Mahasanghikas – Advocated more relaxed norms.
• 1st Century CE (4th Buddhist Council under Kanishka):
• Mahayana Buddhism emerged, differing from Hinayana Buddhism by worshipping Buddha as a divine figure.
• 7th Century CE: Vajrayana Buddhism developed as a tantric branch of Mahayana.
• Spread of Buddhism led to regional adaptations like Tibetan, Chinese, and Zen Buddhism.
• Despite sectarian differences, core teachings (Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, Non-Self) remained consistent.

Major Sects & Their Tenets

Hinayana (Lesser Vehicle) / Theravada

• Most orthodox form, emphasizing individual liberation through meditation.
• Follows Buddha’s earliest teachings in the Pali Canon.
• Upholds monastic discipline, karma, rebirth, and vipassana meditation.
  
• Idealizes the arhat, one who attains nirvana through personal effort.

Mahayana (Greater Vehicle)

• Emerging around the 1st century BCE, it introduced the Bodhisattva ideal (delaying nirvana to help others).
• Patronized by Gupta Emperor Harshavardhana and spread to China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam.
• More inclusive than Theravada, appealing to lay followers.
• Key concepts:
• Bodhisattva path – Compassion and wisdom.
• Buddha-nature – All beings have enlightenment potential.
• Sacred texts: Lotus Sutra, Heart Sutra.

Vajrayana (Diamond Vehicle)

• Tantric Buddhism, uses rituals, mantras, and meditation to attain enlightenment in one lifetime.
• Predominantly practiced in Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal, and Mongolia.