Question

Match Column I with Column II regarding the Buddhist texts and choose the correct option from the following:

Column I (Buddhist Text)	Column II (Description)
a. Vinaya Pitaka	i. Rules and regulations for monastic order
b. Abhidhamma Pitaka	ii. Chronicle of the island
c. Dipavamsa	iii. Regional histories of Buddha
d. Mahavamsa	iv. Dealt with philosophical matters

• A. a-iii, b-i, c-ii, d-iv
• B. a-iii, b-iv, c-i, d-ii
• C. a-i, b-ii, c-iii, d-iv
• D. a-i, b-iv, c-ii, d-iii

Hint:

Remember that the Vinaya Pitaka is closely tied to the rules of the monastic community, while the Mahavamsa and Dipavamsa are historical texts that document the history and regional spread of Buddhism.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

- Vinaya Pitaka outlines monastic rules and regulations, dictating the conduct of Buddhist monks and nuns. $\Rightarrow$ (i)
- Abhidhamma Pitaka delves into philosophical concepts, elaborating on the profound elements of Buddhist doctrine. $\Rightarrow$ (iv)
- Dipavamsa presents a historical record of the island, documenting the progression of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. $\Rightarrow$ (ii)
- Mahavamsa recounts local histories concerning Buddha, emphasizing the life of the Buddha and the early Sri Lankan history. $\Rightarrow$ (iii)
Therefore, the accurate pairing is (D): a-i, b-iv, c-ii, d-iii.