Context

• The First Asian Buddhist Summit was organized by the International Buddhist Confederation from 5–6 November 2024 in New Delhi.
• Theme: "Role of Buddha Dhamma in strengthening Asia"

Discussed topics:

• Buddhist Art, Architecture, and Heritage
• Buddha Cārikā and Dissemination of Buddha Dhamma
• Role of Holy Buddhist Relics and its Relevance in Society
• Significance of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia

Buddhist Council

The First Buddhist Council

• Date: Immediately after the Buddha's death (around 483 BCE)
• Location: Rajagriha, India
• Patron: Ajatashatru 
• President: Mahakasyapa
• Purpose: To preserve the Buddha's teachings (Suttas) and monastic rules (Vinaya).
• Outcome: The Sutta Pitaka and Vinaya Pitaka were compiled and recited.

The Second Buddhist Council

• Date: Around 383 BCE
• Location: Vaishali, India
• Patron: Kalashok 
• President: Subukami
• Purpose: To resolve disputes within the Sangha, particularly regarding monastic rules.
• Outcome: A schism occurred, leading to the formation of the Sthaviravada (Theravada) and Mahasanghika schools.

The Third Buddhist Council

• Date: Around 250 BCE
• Location: Pataliputra, India
• Patron: Ashoka
• President: Mogaliputra
• Purpose: To purify the teachings and discipline, and to spread Buddhism to other regions.
• Outcome: The Abhidhamma Pitaka was compiled and the spread of Buddhism to Sri Lanka and other regions.

The Fourth Buddhist Council

• Date: Around 72 CE
• Location: Kundalvana, Kashmir, India
• Patron: Kanishka
• President: Vasumitra
• Purpose: To translate the Buddhist scriptures into various languages and to promote the Mahayana school.
• Outcome: The Mahayana school gained prominence and the translation of Buddhist texts into different languages.