Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
'Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of rocks, running water and many other natural objects not looked on as living by other religious sects.' The above statement reflects one of the core beliefs of which one of the following religious sects of ancient India?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: B
Concept
The core of Jain philosophy is that the entire world is animated—even rocks, stones, and water have life. This leads to the fundamental principle of non-injury to all living beings.Explanation
According to Jain scriptures and NCERT, the cycle of birth and rebirth is shaped through Karma. Asceticism and penance are required to free oneself from the cycle of Karma, which is achievable only by protecting all forms of life.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option B is correct because Jainism uniquely extends the concept of 'Jiva' (soul) to non-living entities like rocks and running water, necessitating the practice of strict non-violence (Ahimsa).
Logic 2: While Buddhism (Option A) emphasizes compassion, it does not traditionally attribute souls to inanimate objects like rocks. Shaivism and Vaishnavism (Options C & D) focus on theistic devotion rather than this specific pan-psychic view of natural elements.