Third Buddhist Council

The Third Buddhist Council, held around 250 BCE in India under King Ashoka’s patronage, aimed to preserve the true teachings of the Buddha and address deviations within the monastic community. It brought together monks to review doctrine and discipline, leading to the formation of the Theravāda school, which emphasized the original teachings. This council helped standardize Buddhist teachings, promote unity among monks, and support the spread of Buddhism across Asia. It was a pivotal event in shaping the early Buddhist tradition and ensuring its continuity and integrity.