[Solved] Ajivikas: The Sect of Determinism and Destiny

The sect which believed in abiding nature of destiny:

[R.A.S./R.T.S. Prelims 2013]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Ajivika was a heterodox school of ancient India that rivaled early Buddhism and Jainism with its unique theory of predestination.

Authentic Source Evidence

Founded by Makkhali Gosala, the Ajivikas believed in the principle of Niyati (Fate). They argued that there is no 'free will' and that every soul must pass through a fixed number of incarnations before ending suffering, regardless of human effort.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option B is correct. 'Destiny' is the defining characteristic of this now-extinct school.

Logic 2: Jainism (A) and Buddhism (D) emphasize individual effort and Karma, while Charvaka (C) emphasizes random materialism. Only Ajivikas posited that life is totally predetermined.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What was the Ajivika view on moral effort?"

They believed that neither good nor evil deeds could change one's fate, as the entire course of life is mapped out by the cosmic force of Niyati.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The Ajivika philosophy represents a radical form of fatalism that challenged the ethics of personal responsibility promoted by their contemporaries, the Buddha and Mahavira."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Makkhali Gosala 2 Niyati 2 Barabar Caves 2

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