Mahasanghika

Mahasanghika (“Great Assembly”) was one of the earliest Buddhist schismatic groups, emerging from the First Council, and is considered the parent tradition from which the Mahayana Buddhist movement eventually developed.

Overview

The Mahasanghika schism occurred around the 4th century BCE, possibly as early as the reign of Ashoka (though dating is disputed), when a majority of monks (mahasangha) disagreed with the orthodox elder Mahakasyapa on points of Vinaya (monastic discipline). The Mahasanghikas were more liberal in their interpretation of monastic rules and developed innovative philosophical positions that would later influence Mahayana thought. They flourished in eastern India and spread to Southeast Asia and Central Asia.

Core Teachings

The Mahasanghikas held that the historical Buddha was a manifestation of an eternal, omnipresent dharmakaya (truth body), rather than an ordinary human being who attained enlightenment. This doctrine anticipated the Mahayana concept of the Trikaya (three bodies of the Buddha). They also taught that ordinary beings could attain arhatship but that the bodhisattva path was superior, and they developed early concepts of Buddha-nature and the possibility of universal Buddhahood.

Practice and Ritual

The Mahasanghikas maintained Buddhist monastic practice with a more flexible approach to Vinaya than the conservative Sthavira school. They practiced the traditional Buddhist observances of the rainy season retreat (vassa), communal recitation, and meditation. Their liturgical practices likely included early forms of devotional worship directed toward the Buddha image, reflecting their elevated conception of the Buddha’s nature.

Modern Status

The Mahasanghika school as a distinct entity ceased to exist centuries ago, but its philosophical legacy profoundly shaped Mahayana Buddhism. Modern scholars recognize it as a crucial link between early Buddhism and the later Mahayana movement. Historical Mahasanghika communities existed in India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Central Asia.

Verification Notes

• Also spelled “Mahasamghika”
• The exact circumstances of the schism are debated among scholars
• Several sub-schools existed, including the Caitika, Ekavyavaharika, and Lokottaravadin