Question

In which literature can we see the concept of Daśabhūmis?

• A. Mahāyāna literature
• B. Buddhist Kṣaṇikavāda
• C. Hīnayāna literature
• D. Suttapiṭaka

Hint:

Daśabhūmis are unique to Mahāyāna and explain the Bodhisattva’s gradual journey toward Buddhahood.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding Daśabhūmis.
The term “Daśabhūmis” literally means “Ten Stages.” It refers to the ten stages of spiritual progress that a Bodhisattva passes through before attaining Buddhahood.
Step 2: Textual source.
This concept is described in the Mahāyāna text “Daśabhūmika Sūtra,” which later became part of the Avataṃsaka Sūtra (Flower Ornament Scripture). It is a central teaching of Mahāyāna Buddhism focusing on the Bodhisattva path.
Step 3: Eliminating wrong options.
- (2) Buddhist Kṣaṇikavāda → This refers to the doctrine of momentariness, not Daśabhūmis.
- (3) Hīnayāna literature → Mainly focuses on Arhatship, not the Bodhisattva stages.
- (4) Suttapiṭaka → Belongs to early Pāli canon, does not mention Daśabhūmis.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Only Mahāyāna literature contains the systematic doctrine of Daśabhūmis.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{The correct answer is (1) Mahāyāna literature.}} \]