upscools
UPSC CSE Prelims 2011

Jain Metaphysics

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The Jain philosophy holds that the world is created and maintained by

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Jainism is a 'Nastika' or non-theistic philosophy that posits an eternal universe without a beginning, an end, or a divine creator.

Explanation Jaina doctrine suggests the universe is composed of six substances (Dravyas) including Jiva (soul) and Ajiva (matter). These interact according to eternal, cosmic, and natural laws without the intervention of a supreme deity.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option A is correct because Jains believe the universe is self-regulated. Everything happens due to the inherent properties of matter and soul following 'Universal Law'.
Logic 2: Options B and C are moral or religious ideals but not the operational mechanics of the universe. Option D is incorrect as Jainism believes in an infinite number of individual souls (Jiva), not a single 'Universal Soul' (Paramatma) that acts as a creator.

Active Recall

Question

Does Jainism believe in God?

Answer

Jainism does not believe in a creator God; however, it recognizes 'Godhood' as the perfected state of an individual soul that has attained Kevala Jnana.

Core Insight

By attributing the maintenance of the world to Universal Law rather than a deity, Jainism places the entire responsibility of salvation on the individual's own actions.

Practice Navigation