Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following pairs: 1. Parivrajaka - Renunciant and Wanderer 2. Shramana - Priest with a high status 3. Upasaka - Lay follower of Buddhism Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: B
Concept
Ancient Indian social structure included various categories of seekers and followers outside the traditional Vedic household life.Explanation
NCERT defines 'Shramana' as a seeker or one who performs acts of austerity, often in opposition to the Brahminical priest. 'Parivrajaka' denotes a homeless wanderer, and 'Upasaka' refers to the laity.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Pair 1 is correct. A Parivrajaka is a mendicant who has renounced worldly life to wander in search of truth.
Logic 2: Pair 2 is incorrect. Shramanas were actually a challenge to the high-status Brahminical priests; they were non-Vedic seekers (including monks of Buddhism/Jainism).
Logic 3: Pair 3 is correct. Upasaka (male) and Upasika (female) were lay devotees who supported the Sangha without becoming monks.