UPSC CSE Prelims 2020

Buddhism - Mahayana Philosophy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

With reference to the cultural history of India, which one of the following is the correct description of the term 'paramitas'?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept 'Paramita' is a Sanskrit term meaning 'perfection' or 'completeness'. In Mahayana Buddhism, it refers to the spiritual virtues cultivated by a Bodhisattva.

Explanation Mahayana tradition lists six (or ten) paramitas: Dana (Generosity), Sila (Morality), Kshanti (Patience), Virya (Energy), Dhyana (Meditation), and Prajna (Wisdom).

Logical Breakup

Logic 1: Option C is correct as the paramitas are the essential qualities a practitioner must perfect to transition from an ordinary being to a Bodhisattva.

Logic 2: Option A describes Sutras. Option B describes Heterodox (Nastika) schools. Option D refers to guilds like Manigramam or Ayyavole.

Active Recall

Question

Why is 'Prajna' considered the most important Paramita?

Answer

Prajna (Wisdom) is the realization of emptiness (Sunyata) that allows the other five virtues to be practiced without ego or attachment.

Core Insight

The Paramitas represent the shift from the individual liberation (Arhat) of Hinayana to the universal altruism of the Mahayana Bodhisattva.

With reference to the cultural history of India, which one of the following is the correct description of the term 'paramitas'?

Solution & Analysis

Active Recall

Core Insight

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