Question
Examine how and in which aspects the impact of Buddhism in India continued even after its decline.
Solution
Although Buddhism had disappeared as an organised religion, it had left its abiding mark on the history of India.
(a) The Buddhists showed a keen interest and awareness of the problems that faced the people of north-east India in the sixth century B.C.
(b) Buddhism played a marvellous role to maintain peace, harmony and political stability. As it had imbibed with the high principles of peace and ahimsa, the powerful rulers like Asoka gave up the policy of warfare, bloodshed and expansion.
(c) Several rulers became the patrons of Buddhism and relentlessly tried to carry the message of Buddhism to far and wide to develop mutual understanding with other countries.
(d) The preaching of the progressive religion against detestable casteism showed a new light to the low and neglected classes of Indian society. Now, they realised the value of human rights and the idea of equality in the religious and social fields.
(e) The Hindus under the influence of Buddhism followed the path of ahimsa and non-violence. They gave up hunting, eating meat and become vegetarians. Buddhism helped to furnish and purify the society.
