Who is regarded as the greatest commentator of the Buddhist canonical literature (Pali Canon)?

Correct Answer: Buddhaghosha

Subject: history

Nagarjuna
Ashvaghosha
Buddhaghosha
Vasumitra

Explanation: • Buddhaghosa (5th century AD) — greatest Theravada scholar and commentator on the Pali Tipitaka • Magnum opus: Visuddhimagga (Path of Purification) — definitive Theravada reference work • Wrote extensive commentaries on all three Pitakas — studied at Mahavihara, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka • Others: Nagarjuna → founder of Madhyamaka (Shunyata / Emptiness philosophy) — Mahayana; Ashvaghosha → Buddhacharita (poet), 4th Council deputy; Vasumitra → 4th Council president