The correct answer is: B. Kanishka
Kanishka was the second Kushan emperor, who ruled from 127 to 150 CE. He was a great patron of Buddhism and is credited with spreading the religion throughout Central Asia. During his reign, Buddhism split into two major schools: Mahayana and Hinayana.
Mahayana Buddhism is the larger of the two schools and is characterized by its emphasis on compassion and the bodhisattva ideal. Bodhisattvas are beings who have vowed to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings. Mahayana Buddhism also developed a complex pantheon of deities, including the Buddha, bodhisattvas, and various other figures.
Hinayana Buddhism is the smaller of the two schools and is characterized by its emphasis on the monastic life and the Four Noble Truths. The Four Noble Truths are:
- Suffering exists.
- Suffering is caused by attachment.
- Suffering can be ended.
- The way to end suffering is to follow the Eightfold Path.
The Eightfold Path is a set of eight steps that lead to enlightenment. The steps are:
- Right understanding
- Right thought
- Right speech
- Right action
- Right livelihood
- Right effort
- Right mindfulness
- Right concentration
Hinayana Buddhism is also known as Theravada Buddhism, which means “the teaching of the elders.”
The split between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism is a complex issue with a long history. However, it is generally agreed that the split occurred during the reign of Kanishka. The reasons for the split are not entirely clear, but it is likely that they were due to a number of factors, including political, social, and religious differences.
The split between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism has had a profound impact on the development of both schools. Mahayana Buddhism spread throughout Central Asia and China, while Hinayana Buddhism remained more localized in India. Both schools have continued to evolve over time, and they continue to be practiced by millions of people around the world.