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71

Question 71

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?

AOptions

A
A) 1 and 2 only
B
B) 1 and 3 only
C
C) 2 and 3 only
D
D) 1, 2 and 3

BSolution

Let's examine the terms from the cultural history of India:

  • 1. Parivrajaka : Renunciant and Wanderer: This pair is correctly matched. 'Parivrajaka' literally means 'one who wanders about' and refers to an ascetic or renunciant who has given up worldly attachments and leads a wandering life without a fixed abode, seeking spiritual liberation. This term is common in ancient Indian religious traditions, including Brahmanical, Buddhist, and Jain.

  • 2. Shramana : Priest with a high status: This pair is incorrectly matched. 'Shramana' refers to ascetics, renunciants, or monks who practiced self-mortification and rigorous discipline to attain spiritual goals. They were often associated with non-Vedic traditions like Buddhism and Jainism. Shramanas were distinct from Vedic priests (Brahmins) and did not typically hold the status of priests in the traditional sense of performing rituals for others. They emphasized personal effort and inner transformation.

  • 3. Upasaka : Lay follower of Buddhism: This pair is correctly matched. An 'Upasaka' (and Upasika for female) is a lay adherent or follower of Buddhism. They are individuals who take refuge in the Triple Gem (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha) and observe the five precepts but do not join the monastic order (Sangha). They contribute to the Sangha's sustenance and uphold Buddhist principles in their daily lives.

Therefore, statements 1 and 3 are correctly matched.

Diagram for Q71

CStrategy

For ancient history terms, focus on understanding their precise meaning within the social, religious, and philosophical context of the time. Distinguish between different roles and groups (e.g., priests vs. ascetics, monastic vs. lay followers).

DSyllabus Analysis

This question falls under Ancient Indian History, specifically covering religious and philosophical developments, particularly related to Buddhism and ascetic traditions.

EQuestion Analysis

Medium. It requires specific knowledge of ancient Indian religious terminology and social classifications.