11 The Sixth Council

During the historic Sixth Buddhist Council (1954–1956) at Rangoon’s custom-built Mahā Pāsāṇa Guhā cave complex, Mahāsi Sayādaw assumed the critical role of Pucchaka (Chief Interrogator). Replicating the inaugural council’s ancient blueprint, he rigorously cross-examined scriptures for absolute historical authenticity. Alongside Mingun Sayādaw, who flawlessly answered from memory, and working tirelessly behind the scenes as final editor, the Sayādaw helped publish a purified, authoritative 40-volume Pali Canon.