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Question 1

1. With reference to the life of the Buddha, consider the following statements:

The Buddha was born into a kshatriya family belonging to the Sakya gana.
He attained enlightenment under a banyan tree at Sarnath.
He delivered his first sermon at Bodh Gaya.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 1

Correct Answer: (a)
Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Siddhartha, later known as the Buddha, was born into the Sakya gana and was a kshatriya.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The Buddha attained enlightenment under a peepal tree (later called the Bodhi tree) at Bodh Gaya, not at Sarnath.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath, not Bodh Gaya.

Question 2

2. Arrange the following events in the chronological order of the Buddha’s life:

Attainment of enlightenment at Bodh Gaya.
Birth in the Sakya gana.
First sermon at Sarnath.
Passing away at Kusinara.
Select the correct order:
(a) 1, 2, 3, 4
(b) 2, 1, 3, 4
(c) 2, 3, 1, 4
(d) 3, 2, 1, 4

Answer 2

Correct Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Buddha was born in the Sakya gana, attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, delivered his first sermon at Sarnath, and passed away at Kusinara.

Question 3

3. Which of the following locations is correctly matched with its significance in the life of the Buddha?

Bodh Gaya - Place of enlightenment.
Sarnath - Place of birth.
Kusinara - Place of passing away.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 3

Correct Answer: (b)

Question 4

4. The Buddha’s teachings are deeply rooted in his life experiences. Which of the following events from his life reflects the concept of ‘renunciation’?
   (a) His decision to leave the comforts of home in search of knowledge.
   (b) His first sermon at Sarnath, near Varanasi.
   (c) His meditation under the Bodhi tree.
   (d) His final journey to Kusinara

Answer 4

Correct Answer: (a)

Question 5

where buddha was born

Answer 5

lumbini

Question 6

1. With reference to the teachings of the Buddha, consider the following statements:

Suffering and unhappiness in life are caused by constant cravings and desires.
The Buddha advocated for extreme austerity to eliminate cravings and achieve peace.
He emphasized that the results of our actions (karma) influence both this life and the next.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 6

Correct Answer: (b)
Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: The Buddha taught that cravings (tanha) are the root causes of suffering.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The Buddha emphasized moderation, not extreme austerity, to eliminate cravings.
Statement 3 is correct: The concept of karma and its impact on current and future lives was central to his teachings.

Question 7

2. The term tanha in Buddhist teachings refers to:
   (a) The cycle of birth and rebirth.
   (b) Constant craving or thirst leading to suffering.
   (c) Ethical conduct as prescribed by the Buddha.
   (d) Meditation practices to attain enlightenment.

Correct Answer: (b)
Explanation: Tanha refers to the desire or craving that causes suffering, as per the teachings of the Buddha.

Answer 7

Correct Answer: (b)
Explanation: Tanha refers to the desire or craving that causes suffering, as per the teachings of the Buddha.

Question 8

3. The Buddha’s approach to spreading his teachings was unique for his time. Which of the following practices reflect this approach?

Teaching in Prakrit, the language of ordinary people.
Encouraging individuals to question and think for themselves.
Writing down his teachings during his lifetime.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 8

Correct Answer: (a)
Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: The Buddha taught in Prakrit to make his message accessible.
Statement 2 is correct: He encouraged critical thinking rather than blind acceptance.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The Buddha’s teachings were not written down during his lifetime but were passed orally.

Question 9

4. The term karma in the teachings of the Buddha implies:
   (a) Ritual sacrifices to ensure a prosperous life.
   (b) The results of one’s actions influencing current and future lives.
   (c) A meditative state of liberation from desires.
   (d) Social duties prescribed by one’s caste.

Answer 9

Correct Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Buddha emphasized that one’s actions (karma) have consequences in both this life and subsequent lives.

Question 10

2. What was the Buddha’s primary lesson to Kisagotami in this story?
   (a) Death is an inevitable part of life.
   (b) Rituals and prayers can help overcome grief.
   (c) Family members must accept responsibility for misfortune.
   (d) Enlightenment is achieved through personal sacrifice.

Answer 10

(a) Death is an inevitable part of life.

Question 11

3. The story of Kisagotami emphasizes which of the following principles of Buddhism?
   (a) The Four Noble Truths.
   (b) The Eightfold Path.
   (c) The practice of meditation.
   (d) The concept of Nirvana.

Answer 11

(a) The Four Noble Truths.

Question 12

1. With reference to the Six Schools of Indian Philosophy, which of the following statements is/are correct?

The Nyaya system emphasizes logical reasoning as a means to attain knowledge.
The Yoga system was propounded by Patanjali and focuses on the practice of meditation and discipline.
Friedrich Max Muller observed that all six schools were developed by a single sage in a short span of time.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 12

Correct Answer: (a)
Explanation:

Statement 1: Nyaya emphasizes logic and reasoning.
Statement 2: Yoga, propounded by Patanjali, focuses on practices like meditation and self-discipline.
Statement 3: Incorrect, as Max Muller noted that the philosophies were developed over generations by various thinkers.

Question 13

Match the following Six Schools of Indian Philosophy with their founders:

School of Philosophy Founder
(a) Vaishesika (i) Gotama
(b) Nyaya (ii) Konada
(c) Samkhya (iii) Vyasa
(d) Vedanta (iv) Kapila

Choose the correct answer:
(a) a-i, b-ii, c-iii, d-iv
(b) a-ii, b-i, c-iv, d-iii
(c) a-iv, b-ii, c-i, d-iii
(d) a-iii, b-i, c-ii, d-iv

Answer 13

Correct Answer: (b)
Explanation:

Vaishesika: Founded by Konada.
Nyaya: Founded by Gotama.
Samkhya: Founded by Kapila.
Vedanta: Attributed to Vyasa.

Question 14

5. Which of the following correctly describes the Vedanta or Uttara Mimansa school?
   (a) It primarily emphasizes the theory of karma and rituals.
   (b) It seeks to interpret the Upanishads and explain the nature of Brahman.
   (c) It focuses on physical and mental discipline to attain liberation.
   (d) It advocates for strict logical reasoning to achieve self-realization.

Answer 14

Correct Answer: (b)
Explanation: Vedanta or Uttara Mimansa is a philosophical system interpreting the Upanishads, emphasizing the nature of Brahman (the ultimate reality) and Atman (the self).

Question 15

4. Which of the following is NOT correctly paired with its focus or characteristic?
   (a) Vaishesika - Atomic theory and classification of matter.
   (b) Nyaya - Logic and epistemology.
   (c) Samkhya - Devotion to a deity for salvation.
   (d) Yoga - Meditation and self-discipline.

Answer 15

Correct Answer: (c)
Explanation: Samkhya focuses on the dualism of Purusha (spirit) and Prakriti (matter), not devotion.

Question 16

School of Philosophy Founder
(a) Vaishesika (i) Gotama
(b) Nyaya (ii) Jaimini
(c) Samkhya (iii) Kapila
(d) Vedanta (iv) Vyasa

Answer 16

Vaishesika: Founded by Konada.
Nyaya: Founded by Gotama.
Samkhya: Founded by Kapila.
Yoga: Founded by Patanjali.
Purva Mimansa: Founded by Jaimini.
Vedanta (Uttara Mimansa): Founded by Vyasa.

Question 17

2. With reference to the Six Systems of Indian Philosophy, which of the following statements is/are correct?

Vaishesika focuses on the classification of matter and atomic theory.
Purva Mimansa emphasizes rituals and the philosophy of the Vedas.
Yoga primarily deals with the logical interpretation of Upanishadic texts.

Answer 17

Statement 1: Vaishesika focuses on the nature of reality, especially matter and atomic theory.
Statement 2: Purva Mimansa emphasizes rituals and duties based on Vedic texts.
Statement 3: Yoga does not focus on the interpretation of texts but on mental and physical discipline for liberation.

Question 18

3. Which of the following correctly describes the focus of the Samkhya philosophy?
   (a) Rituals and karma from Vedic texts.
   (b) Meditation and self-discipline for liberation.
   (c) Dualism of Purusha (spirit) and Prakriti (matter).
   (d) Logic and epistemology to attain knowledge.

Answer 18

Correct Answer: (c)
Explanation: Samkhya emphasizes the dualistic nature of existence, distinguishing between Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter), as the foundation for understanding reality.

Question 19

Consider the following statements about the Six Schools of Indian Philosophy:

Vedanta was founded by Jaimini and focuses on rituals and karma.
Yoga, founded by Patanjali, emphasizes physical and mental discipline.
Nyaya, attributed to Gotama, focuses on logic and reasoning.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 19

Correct Answer: (b)
Explanation:

Statement 1: Incorrect, Vedanta was founded by Vyasa and focuses on interpreting Upanishads and understanding Brahman.
Statement 2: Correct, Yoga emphasizes meditation and self-discipline as the path to liberation.
Statement 3: Correct, Nyaya emphasizes logic and reasoning.

Question 19

1. With reference to the Upanishads, consider the following statements:
   1 The Upanishads primarily focus on rituals and sacrifices.
   2 The Upanishads explore the relationship between the individual soul (Atman) and the universal soul (Brahman).
   3 Women thinkers like Gargi and Maitreyi contributed significantly to the philosophical discussions recorded in the Upanishads.

Answer 19

Correct Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Incorrect. The Upanishads move away from the ritualistic focus of the earlier Vedic texts and instead delve into philosophical and metaphysical questions, such as the nature of reality, the self, and the ultimate truth.
Statement 2: Correct. The Upanishads explore profound concepts, such as Atman (individual soul) and Brahman (universal soul), and their unity.
Statement 3: Correct. Women thinkers like Gargi and Maitreyi are notable exceptions in the male-dominated intellectual sphere of the time and contributed to Upanishadic discussions.

Question 20

2. Which of the following terms from the Upanishads best describes the “individual soul”?
   (a) Brahman
   (b) Atman
   (c) Karma
   (d) Samsara

Answer 20

(b) Atman

Question 21

3. In the context of the Upanishads, what does the term “Upanishad” literally mean?
   (a) To sit near and listen
   (b) To perform sacrifices
   (c) The ultimate truth
   (d) Path to enlightenment

Answer 21

(a) To sit near and listen

Question 22

Satyakama Jabala, mentioned in the Upanishads, is significant because:
He was a king who contributed to Upanishadic philosophy.
He was born to a slave woman and yet accepted as a student of a brahmin teacher.
He emphasized the importance of social status in spiritual learning.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 22

Correct Answer: (b) 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Incorrect. Satyakama Jabala was not a king but a seeker of knowledge.
Statement 2: Correct. He was born to Jabali, a slave woman, and despite his low social status, he was accepted as a student by a brahmin teacher, Gautama, due to his genuine desire for knowledge.
Statement 3: Incorrect. His story, in fact, challenges the notion that social status determines spiritual eligibility.

Question 23

5. Which among the following thinkers is associated with developing the ideas of the Upanishads further?
   (a) Patanjali
   (b) Kapila
   (c) Shankaracharya
   (d) Charvaka

Answer 23

Answer: (c) Shankaracharya
Explanation:

Shankaracharya, a great philosopher of the early medieval period, is renowned for his work in explaining and systematizing the non-dualistic philosophy of the Upanishads, known as Advaita Vedanta.
The other options:
Patanjali: Associated with Yoga philosophy.
Kapila: Associated with Samkhya philosophy.
Charvaka: Represented materialistic philosophy and rejected Upanishadic ideas.

Question 24

origin of word jain

Answer 24

jain word made of jin …who won its senses

Question 25

who intablished jain religion

Answer 25

bhagvan mahavir

Question 26

mahavir born at

Answer 26

kundgram vaishali

Question 27

1. With reference to Vardhamana Mahavira, consider the following statements:
   He belonged to the Lichchhavi clan, which was part of the Vajji Sangha.
   He attained enlightenment after 30 years of ascetic practice.
   Mahavira’s teachings emphasized the doctrine of Ahimsa.
   Which of the above statements is/are correct?
   (a) 1 and 2 only
   (b) 1 and 3 only
   (c) 2 and 3 only
   (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 27

Correct Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct. Mahavira was born into the Lichchhavi clan, which was part of the Vajji Sangha.
Statement 2: Incorrect. Mahavira attained enlightenment after 12 years of ascetic practice, not 30.
Statement 3: Correct. Mahavira strongly emphasized the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence).

Question 27

Which of the following regions was most associated with the language Prakrit spoken during Mahavira’s time?
(a) Gujarat
(b) Magadha
(c) Tamil Nadu
(d) Karnataka

Answer 27

Correct Answer: (b) Magadha

Explanation:

The form of Prakrit spoken in Magadha was known as Magadhi. Mahavira and his followers used various regional forms of Prakrit to communicate their teachings.

Question 28

3. Why was Jainism predominantly supported by traders?
   (a) Traders benefited from its emphasis on wealth accumulation.
   (b) The doctrine of Ahimsa aligned with their non-violent trade practices.
   (c) Jainism prohibited trade and agriculture, making it appealing to merchants.
   (d) Jainism imposed stricter rules for farmers compared to traders.

Answer 28

Correct Answer: (b) The doctrine of Ahimsa aligned with their non-violent trade practices.

Explanation:

Traders supported Jainism because the principle of Ahimsa was compatible with their profession, which did not involve harming living beings.
Farmers, on the other hand, faced difficulties adhering to Jain principles as they often had to kill insects to protect their crops.

Question 29

Consider the following pairs:
Jain Principles Meaning
1. Ahimsa Non-violence
2. Satya Truthfulness
3. Aparigraha Non-possessiveness
4. Brahmacharya Charity
Which of the pairs is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
(d) None of the above

Answer 29

Correct Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 3 only

Explanation:

Ahimsa: Non-violence (Correct)
Satya: Truthfulness (Correct)
Aparigraha: Non-possessiveness (Correct)
Brahmacharya: Refers to celibacy, not charity (Incorrect).

Question 29

5. With reference to Jainism, consider the following statements:
   Jain monks and nuns were allowed to possess minimal belongings, including clothes.
   Jainism spread to southern regions like Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
   The teachings of Mahavira were written down during his lifetime in Valabhi, Gujarat.
   Which of the above statements is/are correct?
   (a) 1 and 2 only
   (b) 2 only
   (c) 2 and 3 only
   (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 29

Correct Answer: (b) 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Incorrect. Jain monks, especially in the Digambara sect, were required to give up all possessions, including clothes.
Statement 2: Correct. Jainism spread to north India, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka over centuries.
Statement 3: Incorrect. The teachings of Mahavira were orally transmitted and written down much later (about 1500 years ago) at Valabhi, not during his lifetime.

Question 30

1. With reference to the Buddhist Sangha, consider the following statements:
   Only men were allowed to join the Sangha.
   Children, slaves, and women needed special permission to join the Sangha.
   Members of the Sangha were called Bhikkhus and Bhikkhunis.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   (a) 1 and 2 only
   (b) 2 and 3 only
   (c) 1 and 3 only
   (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 30

Correct Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Incorrect. Both men and women were allowed to join the Sangha, though separate branches were established for them.
Statement 2: Correct. Children needed their parents’ permission, slaves needed their masters’ permission, and women required their husbands’ consent to join.
Statement 3: Correct. Members of the Sangha were referred to as Bhikkhus (renouncer men) and Bhikkhunis (renouncer women).

Question 31

2. Which of the following texts provides information about the rules of the Buddhist Sangha?
   (a) Vinaya Pitaka
   (b) Sutta Pitaka
   (c) Abhidhamma Pitaka
   (d) Jataka Tales

Answer 31

Correct Answer: (a) Vinaya Pitaka

Explanation:

The Vinaya Pitaka contains detailed rules and guidelines for the Sangha, including its administration, conduct, and practices.

Question 32

3. Which of the following groups of people could join the Buddhist Sangha?
   Brahmins and Kshatriyas
   Merchants and laborers
   Slaves and courtesans
   Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
   (a) 1 and 2 only
   (b) 2 and 3 only
   (c) 1 and 3 only
   (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 32

Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation:

The Buddhist Sangha was inclusive and allowed people from various social backgrounds, including Brahmins, Kshatriyas, merchants, laborers, barbers, courtesans, and even slaves.

Question 32

4. Consider the following statements regarding the lifestyle of Sangha members:
   Sangha members meditated for most of their time.
   They were forbidden from teaching others.
   They depended on the community for food and alms.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   (a) 1 only
   (b) 1 and 3 only
   (c) 2 and 3 only
   (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 32

Correct Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct. Members of the Sangha spent a significant amount of time meditating.
Statement 2: Incorrect. Teaching was one of their primary roles, as they were responsible for spreading the teachings of the Buddha.
Statement 3: Correct. Members of the Sangha led simple lives and depended on alms for sustenance.

Question 33

5. What was the primary purpose of holding meetings within the Sangha?
   (a) To discuss Buddhist doctrines and teachings.
   (b) To settle disputes among members.
   (c) To organize charity work for the community.
   (d) To assign ranks and titles to members.

Answer 33

Correct Answer: (b) To settle disputes among members.

Explanation:

Regular meetings were held within the Sangha to resolve any internal conflicts and ensure harmony among its members.

Question 34

1. With reference to the Viharas in early Buddhism, consider the following statements:
   Viharas were initially temporary shelters built for monks during the rainy season.
   The earliest viharas were made of stone and were carved out of caves.
   Rich merchants, landowners, or kings often donated land for constructing viharas.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   (a) 1 and 2 only
   (b) 1 and 3 only
   (c) 2 and 3 only
   (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 34

Correct Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct. Viharas originated as temporary shelters for monks during the rainy season.
Statement 2: Incorrect. The earliest viharas were made of wood, not stone. Later, brick and stone viharas, including rock-cut cave monasteries, were constructed.
Statement 3: Correct. Wealthy merchants, landowners, or kings often donated land for building viharas.

Question 35

2. Which of the following best describes the function of Viharas?
   (a) Trade centers for Buddhist monks.
   (b) Permanent shelters for monks and nuns to meditate and teach.
   (c) Ritual centers for Buddhist festivals.
   (d) Administrative headquarters for Buddhist institutions.

Answer 35

Correct Answer: (b) Permanent shelters for monks and nuns to meditate and teach.

Explanation:

Viharas were established as permanent shelters where Buddhist monks and nuns (bhikkhus and bhikkhunis) could stay, especially during the rainy season. They also served as centers for teaching and meditation.

Question 35

3. Mahayana Buddhism introduced two key changes in Buddhist practices. What were they?
   The depiction of the Buddha in human form through statues.
   The concept of Bodhisattvas who delayed their enlightenment to help others.
   The practice of traveling to spread the Buddha’s teachings.
   Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
   (a) 1 and 2 only
   (b) 2 and 3 only
   (c) 1 and 3 only
   (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 35

Correct Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

Key Features of Mahayana Buddhism:
Earlier, Buddha’s presence was symbolized using signs like the peepal tree. Mahayana Buddhism introduced Buddha’s statues in human form.
It popularized the concept of Bodhisattvas, individuals who postponed their enlightenment to assist others.
Statement 3: Incorrect. Traveling was already practiced by Buddhist monks from the early period.

Question 36

4. Which of the following locations is known for early Buddha statues made during Mahayana Buddhism?
   (a) Sarnath and Lumbini
   (b) Taxila and Mathura
   (c) Bodh Gaya and Vaishali
   (d) Rajgir and Kushinagar

Answer 36

Correct Answer: (b) Taxila and Mathura

Explanation:

Statues of the Buddha were crafted in two prominent centers during the rise of Mahayana Buddhism — Mathura (in present-day Uttar Pradesh) and Taxila (in present-day Pakistan).

Question 37

5. Consider the following statements regarding Bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism:
   Bodhisattvas are individuals who have attained enlightenment but continue to exist to help others.
   The belief in Bodhisattvas was absent in early Theravada Buddhism.
   Bodhisattvas are considered divine beings worshipped by Mahayana followers.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   (a) 1 only
   (b) 1 and 2 only
   (c) 2 and 3 only
   (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 37

Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct. Bodhisattvas delay their final enlightenment to assist others in achieving salvation.
Statement 2: Correct. The concept of Bodhisattvas is unique to Mahayana Buddhism and was not present in Theravada Buddhism.
Statement 3: Correct. Bodhisattvas are venerated by Mahayana followers as compassionate beings and sometimes considered semi-divine.

Question 38

1. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
2. Which of the following correctly represents the four ashramas in the Indian system of life?
   (a) Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Sannyasa, Karma
   (b) Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha, Sannyasa
   (c) Grihastha, Sannyasa, Moksha, Brahmacharya
   (d) Brahmacharya, Karma, Vanaprastha, Sannyasa

Answer 38

Answer: (b) Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha, Sannyasa

Question 38

During which ashrama is a person expected to focus on studying the Vedas and leading a disciplined life?
(a) Grihastha
(b) Vanaprastha
(c) Brahmacharya
(d) Sannyasa

Answer 38

Answer: (c) Brahmacharya

Question 39

3. What was the primary duty of an individual in the Grihastha ashrama?
   (a) Meditate in the forest
   (b) Lead a life of renunciation
   (c) Raise a family and perform rituals
   (d) Study and remain celibate

Answer 39

(c) Raise a family and perform rituals

Question 39

4. Which of the following groups were expected to follow the system of ashramas?
   (a) Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas
   (b) Shudras only
   (c) All castes equally
   (d) Kshatriyas and Shudras only

Answer 39

Answer: (a) Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas

Question 40

5. The stage of life in which a person renounces all material possessions is called:
   (a) Brahmacharya
   (b) Grihastha
   (c) Sannyasa
   (d) Vanaprastha

Answer 40

Answer: (c) Sannyasa

Question 41

Brahmacharya (a) Meditate and live in forests
Grihastha (b) Lead a disciplined, celibate life
Vanaprastha (c) Renounce material possessions
Sannyasa (d) Perform household and societal duties

Answer 41

Answer:

Brahmacharya → (b) Lead a disciplined, celibate life
Grihastha → (d) Perform household and societal duties
Vanaprastha → (a) Meditate and live in forests
Sannyasa → (c) Renounce material possessions

Question 41

1. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
2. Consider the following statements about the system of ashramas in ancient Indian society:

It was applicable to all four varnas: Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras.
The system emphasized a balance between spiritual and material duties.
Vanaprastha stage required an individual to live a celibate life and study the Vedas.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 41

Answer: (b) 2 only

Question 42

2. Statement-Based Questions
3. With reference to the ashrama system, consider the following statements:

The concept of ashramas was strictly applicable only to men.

Sannyasa was open only to individuals who had completed all their prior duties as householders.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 42

(b) 2 only

Question 43

1. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
2. Consider the following Chinese pilgrims and the time of their visit to India:

Fa Xian – 1600 years ago
Xuan Zang – 1200 years ago
I-Qing – 1400 years ago
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 43

Answer: (a) 1 only
MCQ 1: Fa Xian visited India around 1600 years ago, Xuan Zang 1400 years ago, and I-Qing 50 years after Xuan Zang. Therefore, only Fa Xian’s timeline is correctly matched.

Question 43

2. Which of the following statements is true about the journeys of the Chinese Buddhist pilgrims?
   (a) They were primarily motivated by trade interests.
   (b) They visited places associated with the life of Mahavira.
   (c) They documented their experiences, including the dangers they faced and the monasteries they visited.
   (d) They traveled to spread Buddhism in China.

Answer: (c) They documented their experiences, including the dangers they faced and the monasteries they visited.

Question 43

Pilgrim Key Contributions
1. Fa Xian (a) Visited Nalanda and recorded details about its libraries.
2. Xuan Zang (b) Carried books and accounts of Indian Buddhism to China.
3. I-Qing (c) First Chinese Buddhist pilgrim to visit the subcontinent.

Answer 43

Answer:

1 → (c)
2 → (b)
3 → (a)

Question 44

2. Statement-Based Questions
3. With reference to the Chinese pilgrims in ancient India, consider the following statements:

Fa Xian was the first Chinese pilgrim to visit the Indian subcontinent.
Xuan Zang stayed in India for several years and studied at Nalanda University.
The accounts of these pilgrims provide important historical information about Indian society and Buddhism during their time.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 44

Answer: (d) 1, 2, and 3

MCQ 3: Fa Xian was the earliest of the three pilgrims, Xuan Zang’s contributions include detailed descriptions of Nalanda and Indian Buddhism, and I-Qing’s writings emphasized the libraries and monasteries he visited.

Question 44

1. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
2. According to Xuan Zang’s account of Nalanda, which of the following statements is correct?

The monastery strictly followed the teachings of the Buddha.
Entrance to Nalanda required aspirants to answer challenging questions posed by the gatekeeper.
The rules of Nalanda allowed anyone to freely enter the premises without evaluation.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 44

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
MCQ 1: Nalanda followed strict rules and evaluated aspirants rigorously through intellectual questioning, as noted by Xuan Zang. Open entry without evaluation contradicts his account.

Question 44

2. Consider the following statements about Nalanda as described by Xuan Zang:

It was a prominent center for Buddhist studies in ancient India.
Scholars from across the subcontinent and beyond visited Nalanda to resolve their intellectual queries.
Discussions and mutual cooperation were integral to the learning environment at Nalanda.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3
(d) 2 and 3 only

Answer 44

Answer: (c) 1, 2, and 3

All statements are correct. Nalanda was a hub of learning, attracting scholars worldwide, and fostered an environment of discussion and mutual learning.

Question 44

1. With reference to Xuan Zang’s description of Nalanda, consider the following statements:

Nalanda’s teachers were known for their exceptional ability and dedication.
The entry process to Nalanda was based on a rigorous intellectual assessment.
The monastery was exclusive to Buddhist monks and did not admit scholars of other faiths.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 44

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Statement-Based Question: Statement 1 and 2 align with Xuan Zang’s description. However, there is no evidence that Nalanda restricted entry based on faith, so Statement 3 is incorrect.