List of the Buddhist Councils| Venue, Patronage and Outcome

Number

Venue, Patronage & Outcome

First Buddhist Council

1. At Satparni Rajagriha (483 BC)

2. Under the patronage of King Ajatshatru with the monk Mhakasyapa Upali presiding, at Rajgriha, in the Sattapani Caves

3. The idea was to preserve Buddha’s teachings (Sutta) and rules for disciples (Vinaya). Ananda was one of the great disciples of Buddha recited Suttas and Upali, another recited Vinaya. Abhidhamma Pitaka was also included.

Second Buddhist Council

1. At Vaishali (383 BC)

2. Under the patronage of King Kalasoka and the presidency of Sabakami. The ruler at time was Kalasoka (Shishunag Dynasty)

3. This council settled down the disputes on the Vinaya Pitaka and code of discipline.

Third Buddhist Council

1. At Pataliputra (250 BC)

2. Under the patronage of King Asoka and the presidency of Moggaliputta Tissa

3. The teachings of Buddha which were under two baskets were now classified in 3 baskets as Abhidhamma Pitaka was established in this council and they were known as ‘Tripitaka’.  It also tried to settle all the disputes of Vinaya Pitaka. Establishment of Sthaviravada School as an orthodox school.

Fourth Buddhist Council

1. At Kundalvana, Kashmir (72 AD)

2. Under the patronage of Kushan king Kanishka and the president of this councilwas Vasumitra, with Avaghosa as his deputy.

3. This council distinctly divided the Buddhism into 2 sects Mahayana and Hinayana.

Fifth Buddhist Council

1. At Mandalay, Burma (1871 AD)

2. Under the patronage of king Mindon. It was presided by Jagarbhivamsha, Narindabhidhaja and Samangalasama

3. The idea was recited all the teaching of the Buddha and examine them systematically if any of them was dropped or altered.

Sixth Buddhist Council

1. At Kaba Aye, Burma (1954 AD)
2. Under the patronage of Burmese Government led by the Prime Minister U Nu. Construction of Maha passana Guha, which is much similar to India’s Sattapanni Cave where the first Buddist Council had been held.

3. It was aimed to preserve the genuine Dhamma and Vinaya Pitaka. It was held under the presidency of Mahasi Sayadaw and Bhandanta Vicittasarabhivamsa. 500 Buddist scholars from 8 countries participated in this council.