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Question 95

The world's second tallest statue in sitting pose of Ramanuja was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India at Hyderabad recently. Which one of the following statements correctly represents the teachings of Ramanuja?

AOptions

A) The best means of salvation was devotion.

B) Vedas are eternal, self-existent and wholly authoritative.

C) Logical arguments were essential means for the highest bliss.

D) Salvation was to be obtained through meditation.

BSolution

Ramanuja (1017-1137 CE) was a prominent Hindu theologian, philosopher, and one of the most important exponents of the Sri Vaishnavism tradition within Hinduism. He is renowned for his philosophy of Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism). A central tenet of Ramanuja's teachings was that the ultimate means to salvation (moksha) or liberation was through 'Bhakti' (devotion) to Vishnu. He emphasized the importance of surrender to God and believed that through loving devotion and grace, one could attain liberation. While he valued Vedic knowledge and spiritual discipline, devotion remained the paramount path in his philosophy.

CStrategy

For questions on prominent religious or philosophical figures from Indian history, focus on their core philosophical tenets and the path to salvation or liberation they advocated. Understand the key differences between various schools of thought (e.g., Advaita, Vishishtadvaita, Dvaita).

DSyllabus Analysis

This question pertains to Medieval Indian History and Philosophy, specifically focusing on the teachings of prominent Bhakti saint-philosophers like Ramanuja and their contributions to Indian thought.

EQuestion Analysis

Easy to Medium. Ramanuja's emphasis on Bhakti is a fundamental aspect of his philosophy and widely taught in Indian history courses.