Schism of Buddhism: History and Variations in Representations

Abstract

This chapter provides a historical overview of the schism in Buddhism while presenting variations in the representation of number of schools. While presenting various dissenting voices that were present in Buddhism even during the life time of Buddha, the chapter argues that the schism is a natural outcome of a counter-tradition that developed with a heterogeneity of the followers. It provides differences of the Pali, the Simhalese, the Tibetan and the Chinese traditions in presenting accounts of various sects and schools. The chapter provides a comprehensive background to the schism which is required for further discussion on the doctrines of the Andhakas.