upscools
UPSC CSE Prelims 1995

Jain Ethics

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The concept of Anuvrata was advocated by:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Jainism prescribes two levels of conduct: 'Mahavrata' (Great Vows) for monks and 'Anuvrata' (Lesser Vows) for householders.

Explanation Lay Jains (Shravakas) follow the five Anuvratas: Ahimsa (Non-violence), Satya (Truth), Asteya (Non-stealing), Brahmacharya (Chastity), and Aparigraha (Non-attachment), but in a less rigorous form than monks.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option C is correct. The Anuvrata allows laypeople to follow the spiritual path while living in society.
Logic 2: Buddhism (A, B) uses the 'Five Precepts' (Pancha Sila), but the specific term 'Anuvrata' is distinctive to the Jaina ethical system.

Active Recall

Question

What is the difference between Mahavrata and Anuvrata?

Answer

Mahavrata refers to the strict, absolute practice of the five vows by monks, whereas Anuvrata is the modified, practical application for householders.

Core Insight

The Anuvrata system made Jainism sustainable for a large lay community, ensuring that spiritual values were integrated into daily commercial and social life.

Practice Navigation