SOAS Research Online

Abstract

This study deals with the history of Buddhism in the northern Deccan during the Satavhana period. The first chapter examines the evidence relating to the first appearance of Buddhism in this area, its timing and the support by the state and different sections of the population. This is followed by a discussion of the problems surrounding the chronology of the Satavhana dynasty and evidence is advanced to support the 'shorter chronology'. In the third chapter the Buddhist monuments attributable to the Satavhana period are dated utilising the chronology of the Satavhanas provided in the second chapter. The inscriptional evidence provided by these monuments is described in detail. The fourth chapter contains an analysis and description of the sects and sub-sects which constituted the Buddhist Order. Emphasis is placed on the geographical location of these sects and sub-sects. The fifth chapter is devoted to an account of the monastic organisation of the period - the construction of the monasteries, their administration, the means provided for their maintenance and the monks in lay society. In the last chapter the place of Buddhism in the society of the northern Deccan is described, attention being directed to the relationship between the Samgha and the Satavhana rulers, the merchant class and other strata of lay society.