SSC IMD SA 2017 – Question 81

What does ‘Tri-ratna’ indicate in Buddhism?

• Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka, Abhidhamma Pitaka
• Sarnath, Lumbini, Bodh Gaya
• Love, Compassion, Kindness
• Truth, Non-violence, Kindness

Detailed Explanation:

The correct answer is a) विनय पिटक, सुत पिटक, अभिधम्म पिटक.

In Buddhist canonical literature, there are two distinct three-fold concepts that candidates must clearly distinguish:

• Tripitaka (त्रिपिटक – Three Baskets): These are the sacred canonical scriptures of Buddhism written in Pali:
  1. Sutta Pitaka (सुत्त पिटक): Contains the core teachings and discourses of Gautama Buddha and his chief disciples.
  2. Vinaya Pitaka (विनय पिटक): Contains the rules and regulations of monastic discipline for monks (bhikkhus) and nuns (bhikkhunis).
  3. Abhidhamma Pitaka (अभिधम्म पिटक): Contains philosophical analysis, psychology, and doctrinal interpretations of Buddhist doctrines.
• Triratna (त्रिरत्न – Three Jewels): In classical Buddhist philosophy, the Three Jewels/Refuges are:
  • Buddha (बुद्ध): The Enlightened One.
  • Dhamma / Dharma (धम्म): The teachings and moral doctrine.
  • Sangha (संघ): The monastic community of followers.

Note: In the official SSC examination question, the options did not include (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha); instead, the paper equated the three canonical Buddhist texts (Tripitaka) to the three treasures, making option a) the designated correct answer according to the official key.