Buddhist Controversy over the Five Propositions
By ET. Lamotte
Summary
This article investigates an early doctrinal dispute known as the ‘controversy over the five propositions’. The propositions, attributed to a monk named Mahādeva, questioned the infallibility and perfection of the arhat. They claimed that an arhat could be subject to ignorance, doubts, the influence of others and spiritual progress after attaining liberation, and that he might be led astray by another. Lamotte traces how these assertions provoked debate within the early Buddhist community and contributed to the first great schism between the Mahāsāṃghika and the Sthaviravāda. The article analyses canonical sources, including the Kathāvatthu and Chinese translations, to reconstruct the arguments advanced by both sides. It shows how the controversy foreshadowed later Mahāyāna critiques of the arhat ideal and the elevation of the bodhisattva path. Lamotte also discusses the role of councils in adjudicating doctrinal disputes and the methods used to resolve differences, such as voting and recitation. The controversy illustrates the dynamic, self‑critical nature of the Buddhist community and highlights how debate served as a catalyst for philosophical development.
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Conclusion
Lamotte concludes that the five propositions controversy was pivotal in shaping the trajectory of Buddhist doctrinal history. By challenging the concept of the fully perfected arhat, Mahādeva’s assertions spurred deeper reflection on the qualities of spiritual attainment. The resulting schism set the stage for the emergence of Mahāyāna ideals, demonstrating how doctrinal debates can stimulate religious innovation.