Question

In which book are sixteen Mahajanapadas mentioned?

• A. Anguttara Nikaya
• B. Bhagavati Sutra
• C. Both (A) and (B)
• D. Mahavamsa

Hint:

The sixteen Mahajanapadas are ancient republics or kingdoms mentioned in both Buddhist and Jain texts.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding Mahajanapadas.
The sixteen Mahajanapadas were prominent regions or republics in ancient India. They are mentioned in both the Anguttara Nikaya and Bhagavati Sutra, which are ancient Buddhist and Jain texts, respectively.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) Anguttara Nikaya: The Anguttara Nikaya, a Buddhist text, mentions the sixteen Mahajanapadas.
(B) Bhagavati Sutra: The Bhagavati Sutra, a Jain text, also mentions the sixteen Mahajanapadas.
(C) Both (A) and (B): Correct. Both texts mention the sixteen Mahajanapadas.
(D) Mahavamsa: The Mahavamsa is a Sri Lankan chronicle and does not focus on the sixteen Mahajanapadas.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C) Both (A) and (B), as both the Anguttara Nikaya and Bhagavati Sutra mention the sixteen Mahajanapadas.