The Fourth Council led to the division of Buddhism into Hinayana and Mahayana.

The Fourth Council, also known as the Council of Kashmir, took place in the 1st century CE under the patronage of the Kushan emperor Kanishka. It was convened in order to resolve doctrinal disputes and to standardize Buddhist scriptures.

Key Points:
- Council of Kashmir: The Fourth Council, also known as the Council of Kashmir, was held in the 1st century CE.
- Purpose: The council aimed to resolve doctrinal disputes and to standardize Buddhist scriptures.
- Kushan Emperor Kanishka: The council was convened under the patronage of the Kushan emperor Kanishka.
- Doctrinal Disputes: The council was held in response to various doctrinal disagreements that had arisen within the Buddhist community.
- Standardization of Scriptures: One of the main objectives of the council was to compile and standardize the Buddhist scriptures. This involved collecting and preserving the teachings of the Buddha and his disciples.
- Development of Mahayana Buddhism: During the Fourth Council, the Mahayana school of Buddhism emerged as a distinct branch. Mahayana Buddhism emphasizes the idea of the Bodhisattva, an enlightened being who postpones their own liberation to help others achieve enlightenment.
- Division into Hinayana and Mahayana: The Fourth Council marked the beginning of a division within Buddhism. Those who adhered to the original teachings and practices of Buddhism were known as Hinayana or Theravada, while those who followed the Mahayana teachings were called Mahayana Buddhists.
- Significance: The Fourth Council played a crucial role in the development and diversification of Buddhist thought and practice. It led to the emergence of different schools and sects within Buddhism, each with its own interpretations and practices.

The Fourth Council, held in the year 78 A.D at Kundalvan in Kashmir, led to the division of Buddhism into Hinayana and Mahayana.