Question 91 from UPSC CSE 2018 - Art and Culture

Question

With reference to Indian history, who among the following is a future Buddha, yet to come to save the world?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. Maitreya

Strategy: Identify the figure traditionally recognized as a 'future Buddha' within Buddhist doctrine. The strategy involves ruling out Avalokiteshvara, Padmapani, and Lokesvara, as they are established bodhisattvas associated with compassion, not future Buddhas. Maitreya is the specific figure consistently identified in Buddhist texts as the next Buddha yet to appear.

Key Info: Maitreya is regarded in Mahayana and Theravada Buddhist traditions as the future Buddha. He is predicted to appear on Earth, attain complete enlightenment, and teach the dharma after the teachings of Gautama Buddha have been forgotten. This concept is rooted in canonical texts such as the Anagatavamsa and several Mahayana sutras.

Avalokiteshvara, also known as Padmapani ('Lotus Bearer') and Lokesvara ('Lord of the World'), is a bodhisattva embodying compassion. This figure is widely worshipped in Mahayana Buddhism but is not considered a future Buddha. Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings who choose to remain in the world to assist others in reaching liberation.

Maitreya's predicted arrival as the next Buddha is a significant element in Buddhist eschatology. It signifies hope for a renewal of the dharma in a future age. Padmapani and Avalokiteshvara are alternative names referring to the same compassionate bodhisattva, distinct from Maitreya in Buddhist iconography and scripture.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: Avalokiteshvara

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Lokesvara

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: Padmapani