Question

Which of the following Buddhist literature contains the Buddha’s sermons on matters of ethics and doctrine?
1. Vinayaka Pitaka
2. Jataka Stories
3. Abhidamma Pitaka
4. Sutta Pitaka

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 4 : Sutta Pitaka

The correct answer is Sutta Pitaka.

• Sutta Pitaka:
  • The Sutta Pitaka consists of the main teaching or Dhamma of Buddha.
  • It is divided into five Nikayas or collections:
    • Digha Nikaya
    • Majjhima Nikaya
    • Samyutta Nikaya
    • Anguttara Nikaya
    • Khuddaka Nikaya

• The Buddha's teaching was oral.
• He taught for 45 years, adapting the teaching to suit the group he was addressing.
• The Sangha memorized the teachings, and there were group recitations at festivals and special occasions.
• The teachings were rehearsed and authenticated at the First Council and were divided into Three Pitakas in 483 BC.
• His teachings were written down around 25 B.C.E. in Pali.
• The Vinaya Pitaka consists of rules of conduct and discipline applicable to the monastic life of the monks and nuns.
• The Abhidhamma Pitaka is a philosophical analysis and systematization of the teaching and the scholarly activity of the monks.
• Other important Buddhist texts include Divyavadana, Dipavamsa, Mahavamsa, Milind Panha, etc.