Question

“By nirvāṇa only kleśāvaraṇa is destroyed, not jñeyāvaraṇa” — whose theory was this?

• A. Mahāyāna
• B. Hinayāna
• C. Sautrāntika
• D. Ājīvika

Hint:

Mahāyāna distinguishes two obstacles: kleśāvaraṇa (defilements) and jñeyāvaraṇa (cognitive hindrance).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: About the two āvaraṇas.
In Mahāyāna philosophy, there are two obstacles:
- Kleśāvaraṇa: Obstruction due to afflictions (defilements).
- Jñeyāvaraṇa: Obstruction due to limited knowledge.
Step 2: Mahāyāna theory.
According to Mahāyāna, nirvāṇa removes kleśāvaraṇa but not jñeyāvaraṇa. The latter is removed only by a Bodhisattva on the path to Buddhahood.
Step 3: Analysis of options.
- Mahāyāna: Correct, this is their doctrine.
- Hinayāna: Focused only on liberation, did not distinguish these two āvaraṇas.
- Sautrāntika: Known for rejecting Abhidharma, not this theory.
- Ājīvika: Non-Buddhist ascetic sect.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Thus, the theory belongs to the Mahāyāna school.