Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Consider the following statements about votive inscriptions in the 2nd century BC: 1. They record gifts made to religious institutions. 2. They tell us about the idea of transference of the meritorious results of the action of one person to another person.
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
Votive inscriptions are brief records engraved on railings or pillars of stupas and temples by ordinary people to commemorate their donations.Explanation
In the 2nd century BCE, votive inscriptions (like those at Sanchi or Bharhut) documented the name, profession, and hometown of the donor. They often included the wish that the merit of the gift be shared with family or all living beings (transference of merit).Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statement 1 is correct; these records are the primary source for understanding non-royal patronage in ancient India.
Logic 2: Statement 2 is correct; the spiritual logic was that the 'Punya' (merit) from a physical donation could be dedicated to others.