Correct Option
The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
Gautama Buddha's teaching methodology was characterized by its practical, egalitarian, and rational approach. He sought to address human suffering through direct engagement, dialogue, and accessible language, distinguishing his path from the ritualistic and exclusive practices prevalent in the Vedic tradition.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The Buddha did not teach exclusively through silence. While he maintained silence on certain metaphysical questions (Avyakata) that he deemed irrelevant to the cessation of suffering, his primary method involved active preaching, sermons (Suttas), debates, and dialogues. He traveled extensively for forty-five years to propagate his Dhamma through spoken words.
- Statement 2 is Correct. To ensure his message was accessible to all sections of society, including women and the lower varnas, the Buddha taught in Pali (or Magadhi Prakrit), the language of the ordinary people. He explicitly rejected the use of Sanskrit, which was associated with the priestly class and Vedic rituals.
- Statement 3 is Correct. The Buddha emphasized rational inquiry and personal experience over blind faith or supernatural displays. He encouraged his followers to analyze his teachings rather than accepting them out of mere reverence. He famously advised testing his words as one would test gold by cutting, burning, and rubbing, relying on reason and persuasion to convince people.
Key Takeaway: The Buddha's pedagogy relied on the use of vernacular language (Pali) and rational persuasion, rejecting the exclusivity of Sanskrit and the authority of miracles or blind faith.