UPSC CSE Prelims 1996

Comparative Shramic Religions

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which of the following were common to both Buddhism and Jainism? 1. Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment. 2. Indifference to the authority of the Vedas. 3. Denial of efficiency of rituals. 4. Non-injury to animal life. Select the answer using the code given below:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Buddhism and Jainism were contemporary heterodox movements that arose in the Gangetic valley as alternatives to the ritualistic Brahminical religion.

Explanation Both religions were founded by Kshatriya princes who rejected the divine authority of the Vedas and the utility of expensive animal sacrifices. Both prioritized ethical conduct (Ahimsa) over ritual practice.

Logical Breakup

Logic 1: Statements 2, 3, and 4 are commonalities. Both rejected Vedas, rituals, and promoted non-violence.

Logic 2: Statement 1 is a *difference*. Buddhism promoted the 'Middle Path', while Jainism insisted on extreme penance (tapas) and self-mortification.

Active Recall

Question

What was the 'Middle Path' in Buddhism?

Answer

It was the avoidance of both extreme self-indulgence and extreme self-mortification, seeking a balanced life for meditation.

Core Insight

The success of these religions lay in their shared focus on individual morality and social equality, which challenged the hereditary hierarchy of the time.

Which of the following were common to both Buddhism and Jainism? 1. Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment. 2. Indifference to the authority of the Vedas. 3. Denial of efficiency of rituals. 4. Non-injury to animal life. Select the answer using the code given below:

Solution & Analysis

Active Recall

Core Insight

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