Buddhism
The First Buddhist Council at Rajagaha
· 7 min read
The gathering of 500 Arahants that preserved the Buddha teachings.
The Historical Context
Three months after the Buddha's Parinirvana, Mahakassapa convened the first council.
The Rajagaha Assembly
The first council was held in the Saptaparni Cave. Mahakassapa presided. 500 Arahants participated.
Ananda and the Sutta Pitaka
Ananda recited the Suttas.
Upali and the Vinaya Pitaka
Upali recited the Vinaya.
Historical Significance
- Preserved the Buddha's teachings
- Established the canon as authoritative
- Model for subsequent councils
The Later Councils
Four main Buddhist councils.
Sources
- Cullavagga of the Vinaya Pitaka
- Mahavamsa
- Modern research by Gregory Schopen, Richard Gombrich
Tradition
Honored by all traditions.
Related articles
Get new articles
Subscribe to receive notifications when we publish.