Question: Discuss the reasons for the phenomenal growth of Buddhism in Ancient Period. (ISS 2025 GENEARL STUDIES (History))

Sunrise Classes
Jun 25
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Question: Discuss the reasons for the phenomenal growth of Buddhism in Ancient Period.

Answer:

The phenomenal growth of Buddhism in the ancient period can be attributed to several religious, social, political, and economic factors:

1. Simplicity of Teachings

Buddhism rejected complex rituals, sacrificial ceremonies, and caste distinctions of Brahmanism.
Its core principles—Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path—were simple, rational, and practical, making it accessible to common people.

2. Opposition to Caste System

Buddhism strongly opposed the rigid varna system, thus attracting the oppressed lower castes, especially Shudras and women, who were marginalized in Brahmanical society.

3. Royal Patronage

Emperor Ashoka (Maurya Dynasty) played a pivotal role in promoting Buddhism by adopting it after the Kalinga war.
He sent missionaries to Sri Lanka, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia, organized the Third Buddhist Council, and built stupas and viharas.

4. Role of Buddhist Sangha

The organized monastic community (Sangha) helped in the systematic spread of Buddhism.
Monks traveled extensively, preached the Dhamma, and interacted with local populations.

5. Use of Vernacular Language

Gautama Buddha used Pali and Prakrit, local languages, instead of Sanskrit, to communicate directly with the masses.

6. Support from Merchants and Urban Communities

Buddhism flourished in cities and trade centers where merchant classes supported monks and monasteries.
Buddhist ethics emphasizing non-violence and honesty resonated with trading communities.

7. Missionary Zeal and Foreign Spread

Buddhist monks actively traveled to Sri Lanka, China, Tibet, Burma, and Central Asia, promoting the Dhamma beyond India.
Institutions like Nalanda and Takshashila became global centers of Buddhist learning.

8. Adaptability and Syncretism

Buddhism adapted itself to local cultures and absorbed regional beliefs, which ensured its wide acceptance and growth.

Conclusion:

Buddhism's emphasis on equality, ethical living, and non-violence, combined with state support and missionary zeal, led to its phenomenal growth in ancient India and its spread across Asia.

Indian Statistical Service (ISS) Previous Year Question Paper Solution 2025