UPSC Prelims 2011·GS1·history·ancient history

The “dharma” and “rita” depict a central idea of ancient Vedic civilization of India. In this context, consider the following statements: 1. Dharma was a conception of obligations and of the discharge of one’s duties to oneself and to others. 2. Rita was the fundamental moral law governing the functioning of the universe and all it contained. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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  1. A1 only
  2. B2 only
  3. CBoth 1 and 2Correct
  4. DNeither 1 nor 2

Explanation

The correct answer is C because both statements accurately describe the Vedic concepts of Dharma and Rita. Statement 1 is correct because Dharma refers to the individual and social duties, ethical obligations, and righteous conduct that a person must follow to maintain social order and personal growth. It emphasizes the discharge of responsibilities toward oneself, family, and society. Statement 2 is correct because Rita represents the cosmic and moral order of the universe. In Vedic philosophy, it is the underlying principle that regulates the movement of the sun, the seasons, and the moral conduct of living beings. It ensures that the universe functions in a balanced and orderly manner. Since both statements correctly define these fundamental pillars of ancient Indian civilization, option C is the right choice.
history: The “dharma” and “rita” depict a central idea of ancient Vedic civilization of India. In this context, consider the foll

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