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The Fourth Buddhist Council was held in Kashmir under the leadership of
Explanation
The Fourth Buddhist Council was held in Kashmir during the 1st century AD under the patronage of the Kushan King Kanishka. The council took place at Kundalvana in Kashmir and was presided over by Vasumitra, with Ashvaghosha serving as the vice-president. This council is historically significant as it marked the formal adoption of Sanskrit for Buddhist scriptures and witnessed the definitive split of Buddhism into two major sects: Hinayana and Mahayana. While the first three councils were held under the patronage of Ajatasatru, Kalasoka, and Ashoka respectively, Kanishka's council in Kashmir focused on compiling extensive commentaries known as the Vibhashas [1]. This assembly solidified the Sarvastivada school's influence in the region and played a crucial role in the spread of Mahayana Buddhism to Central Asia and China.
Sources
- [1] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 3: Rise of Territorial Kingdoms and New Religious Sects > Decline of Buddhism in India > p. 43