Which Buddhist text contains a dialogue between, a king named Avantiputra and a disciple of the Buddha named Kachchana?

Correct option is C

The Majjhima Nikaya is a key text in the Sutta Pitaka, which is part of the Tripitaka, the doctrinal canon of Theravadin Buddhism. This text contains a noteworthy dialogue between King Avantiputra and the Buddha’s disciple, Kachchana. The discussion explores social hierarchies and challenges the supremacy of Brahmanical varna (caste) practices.
The dialogue unfolds when King Avantiputra questions Kachchana about the Brahmanas’ claim of being supreme, pure, and above other varnas. Kachchana counters by asking if a wealthy Shudra would not command respect and obedience from members of other varnas, including the Brahmanas. The king agrees, conceding that wealth, not caste, determines social interactions. Kachchana uses this logical inquiry to emphasize the Buddhist view that all human beings are fundamentally equal, irrespective of varna.
This dialogue reflects Buddhism's rejection of caste hierarchies, promoting egalitarian principles and ethical conduct over birth-based privilege. The Majjhima Nikaya is a testament to Buddhism’s challenge of entrenched social norms.
Information Booster:
· The Tripitaka comprises three sections: Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka, and Abhidhamma Pitaka.
· Majjhima Nikaya is part of the Sutta Pitaka and contains middle-length discourses.
· The dialogue emphasizes the Buddhist rejection of caste systems and the belief in equality.
· King Avantiputra questions Brahmanical supremacy, and Kachchana dismantles it using logical reasoning.
· The text reveals Buddhist attitudes toward ethical and social principles over ritualistic practices.
Additional Knowledge:
The Tripitaka:
1. Vinaya Pitaka: Focuses on the regulation of monastic life for monks and nuns, providing ethical guidelines.
2. Sutta Pitaka: Contains doctrinal and ethical discourses attributed to the Buddha. Divided into five books:
· Digha Nikaya: Long discourses on various topics, including cosmology and ethics.
· Majjhima Nikaya: Middle-length discourses addressing philosophy, meditation, and social issues.
· Samyutta Nikaya: Discourses grouped by subject matter, including Dependent Origination.
· Anguttara Nikaya: Numerical discourses for easier memorization and study.
· Khuddaka Nikaya: Shorter texts like the Dhammapada and Jataka Tales.
3. Abhidhamma Pitaka: Offers a detailed analysis of Buddhist teachings, focusing on psychology and philosophy.