Buddhist Councils were pivotal events in the history of Buddhism, convened to codify doctrines and resolve disputes within the Sangha (monastic community). This question asks to identify the specific council associated with a particular ruler and location.
Understanding the Question, Key Concepts, and Approach
The question requires identifying which of the Buddhist Councils was patronized by the Kushan emperor Kanishka and held in Kashmir. The approach involves recalling the details (patron, location, and key outcomes) of the four major ancient Buddhist Councils.
Detailed Solution
Step 1: Analyze the details provided. The question specifies the patron (Kanishka) and the location (Kashmir).
Step 2: Recall the details of the Fourth Buddhist Council. The Fourth Buddhist Council was convened under the patronage of the Kushan emperor Kanishka I, around the 1st or 2nd century CE. The council was held at Kundalvana in Kashmir. A major outcome of this council was the formal schism between the Mahayana and Hinayana schools of Buddhism and the compilation of extensive commentaries on the Buddhist scriptures.
Step 3: Eliminate other options by reviewing their details.
The First Council was held at Rajgriha, shortly after the Buddha's death, under the patronage of King Ajatashatru.
The Second Council was held at Vaishali, about a century later, under King Kalasoka.
The Third Council was held at Pataliputra under the patronage of the Mauryan emperor Ashoka.
Step 4: Conclusion. The Fourth Buddhist Council is the one that matches the details of being held in Kashmir during the reign of Kanishka.