Question 58 from UPSC CSE 2024 - Art & Culture

Question

Sanghabhuti, an Indian Buddhist monk, who travelled to China at the end of the fourth century AD, was the author of a commentary on:

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. Sarvastivada Vinaya

Strategy: Focus on the historical linkage between Buddhist monks and specific texts or schools. Since Sanghabhuti traveled to China for Buddhist propagation and commentary, look for a text specifically needing transmission or interpretation in the context of monastic regulations -- which points directly to the Sarvastivada Vinaya, not general Mahayana treatises or meditation manuals.

Key Info: ## Sanghabhuti's Contribution
Sanghabhuti was an Indian Buddhist monk active in the late fourth century AD. He played a significant role in transmitting Buddhist teachings to China, particularly by authoring a commentary on the Sarvastivada Vinaya.

## The Sarvastivada Vinaya
This is a major monastic disciplinary code associated with the Sarvastivada school. This early Buddhist school emphasized the universal existence of dharmas. The Sarvastivada Vinaya is fundamental for regulating monastic behavior and community life, and its translation and interpretation were crucial for the spread of Buddhism outside India.

## Comparison with Other Texts
*   **Prajnaparamita Sutra** -- A foundational Mahayana scripture focused on the perfection of wisdom.
*   **Visuddhimagga** -- A Theravada commentary by Buddhaghosa from Sri Lanka, not related to Indian transmission to China.
*   **Lalitavistara** -- A Mahayana biography of the Buddha.

Buddhist monks like Kumarajiva and Sanghabhuti were critical in translating and annotating key sutras and vinayas, significantly shaping Chinese Buddhist scholasticism and practice.

Answer

Option A: Prajnaparamita Sutra

Answer

Option B: Visuddhimagga

Answer

Option D: Lalitavistara