Q. Who was the founder of Mahayan sect of Buddhism?
(a) Buddhadeva
(b) Ghoshak
(c) Dharmtrat
(d) Asanga
Ans: (d) Asanga
Explanation: The founder of the Mahayana sect of Buddhism is not attributed to a single individual, as it emerged as a movement within Buddhism during the early centuries CE. However, one of the key figures associated with the development of Mahayana teachings is (d) Asanga.
Asanga, along with his brother Vasubandhu, played a significant role in shaping Mahayana philosophy and promoting its teachings. Asanga is known for his contributions to Yogacara (also known as Vijnanavada) philosophy, which emphasizes the subjective nature of perception and consciousness.
While Asanga was influential in the development of Mahayana Buddhism, it is important to note that the emergence and evolution of Mahayana as a distinct tradition involved the contributions of many other scholars, teachers, and practitioners over an extended period of time.
Therefore, while Asanga is associated with the development of Mahayana teachings, it would be more accurate to view the Mahayana sect as an evolution of Buddhist thought rather than attributing its founding to a single individual.
