U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 1992

History of Indian Religion

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The beginning of idol worship is to be considered in-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Idol worship (Murti Puja) in India has distinct phases. The earliest anthropomorphic representations of deities appear long before the Vedic texts.

Explanation Archaeological finds from the Indus Valley Civilization (Pre-Aryan) include terracotta 'Mother Goddess' figurines and the 'Pashupati' seal, suggesting worship through physical images.

Logical Breakup

Pre-Aryan (A): The Harappans were the first to create physical icons of deities.

Vedic Period: Was aniconic, focusing on oral mantras and fire sacrifices rather than idols.

Kushan Period: Saw the popularization of 'human-form' statues of Buddha and Hindu gods, but the *beginning* lies in the IVC.

Active Recall

Question

What is the main difference between Harappan and Vedic worship?

Answer

Harappan worship involved physical icons and figurines, while Vedic worship was centered on the non-material vibration of mantras and sacrificial fire.

Core Insight

Indian religious history is a synthesis: the idol traditions of the Pre-Aryans eventually merged with the philosophical ritualism of the Aryans.

The beginning of idol worship is to be considered in-

Solution & Analysis

Active Recall

Core Insight

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