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U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 1998

Ancient Cultural Terminology

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Meaning of the term 'Arya' in classical Sanskrit is-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Linguistic accuracy is crucial in ancient history to avoid modern racial misinterpretations of ancient terminology.

Explanation In Rigvedic and classical Sanskrit, the word 'Arya' is used as an adjective meaning 'noble', 'respected', or 'gentleman'. It denotes an ethical and cultural standard, not a racial one.

Logical Breakup
Noble Man (D): This is the direct semantic translation.
Logic: An 'Arya' was someone who followed the established social and moral codes of the Vedic society.

Active Recall

Question

How did Buddhism use the term 'Arya'?

Answer

Buddhism used it to describe the 'Four Noble Truths' (Arya Satyas), referring to the spiritual nobility of those who follow the path.

Core Insight

The term Arya was a marker of cultural and spiritual sophistication rather than a biological or genetic classification.

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