All questions of Theme 4 - Thinkers, Beliefs and buildings for Humanities/Arts Exam

Commissioner of Guntur in 1854 was Walter Elliot.

Walter Elliot was a British colonial administrator who served as the Commissioner of Guntur in 1854. He was born on 1st May 1803 in Thornton, Scotland, and joined the East India Company's Bengal Civil Service in 1822.

Elliot held various administrative positions in India, including Collector of Madras, Commissioner of Coimbatore, and Commissioner of Guntur. He was known for his efforts to modernize the region and improve the living conditions of the people. During his tenure as the Commissioner of Guntur, he worked towards the development of irrigation systems, roads, and public buildings. He also focused on improving the education system and encouraged the establishment of schools.

Elliot was a supporter of the British policy of modernization and believed that the British rule in India was necessary for the country's progress. However, he was criticized by some for his harsh treatment of the local population and his support for the exploitation of India's resources by the British.

Elliot retired from the civil service in 1857 and returned to Scotland, where he died on 23rd June 1887.

John Marshall dedicated his significant volumes on Sanchi to Sultan Jehan.

Explanation:

John Marshall was a British archaeologist who served as the Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India from 1902 to 1928. During his tenure, he conducted extensive excavations and research in various parts of India, including the ancient Buddhist site of Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh.

Marshall's work on Sanchi was groundbreaking and helped to shed light on the rich cultural and artistic heritage of ancient India. He published several volumes on Sanchi, including "The Monuments of Sanchi" and "A Guide to Sanchi." These volumes contained detailed descriptions and illustrations of the various structures, sculptures, and inscriptions found at the site.

In recognition of his contributions to Indian archaeology and his dedication to the study of Sanchi, Marshall dedicated his volumes on the site to Sultan Jehan Begum. Begum was the ruler of the princely state of Bhopal from 1901 to 1926 and was known for her patronage of the arts and culture. Marshall's dedication to Begum was a gesture of appreciation for her support of his work and her contributions to the preservation of Indian heritage.

In summary, John Marshall dedicated his significant volumes on Sanchi to Sultan Jehan Begum as a recognition of her support for archaeology and preservation of Indian heritage.

Understanding the Assertion and Reason
The question presents an assertion about Mahavira and a reason related to his teachings.
Assertion (A): Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, was born into the Natha family.
Reason (R): Mahavira's teachings emphasized asceticism and non-violence.
Analysis of Assertion
- Mahavira was not born into the Natha family; he was born into the Kshatriya (warrior) family of the Kshatriya clan in what is now Bihar, India.
- His father's name was Siddhartha, and his mother's name was Trishala.
Analysis of Reason
- Mahavira's teachings indeed focused on asceticism, non-violence (ahimsa), and other core principles of Jainism.
- His life and teachings significantly influenced the development of Jain philosophy and ethics.
Conclusion
- The assertion is false because Mahavira was not born into the Natha family.
- The reason is true as it accurately describes the essence of Mahavira's teachings.
Correct Answer
- Since the assertion is false and the reason is true, the correct answer is option 'D': Assertion is false, but Reason is true.

Number of Sects or Schools of Thought in Buddhist Texts

There are various sects or schools of thought mentioned in Buddhist texts, which are briefly discussed below.

Theravada

Theravada is the oldest school of Buddhism, which originated in India and is still prevalent in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

Mahayana

Mahayana is the second major school of Buddhism, which originated in India and spread to China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and Tibet.

Vajrayana

Vajrayana is a sub-school of Mahayana, which is prevalent in Tibet, Bhutan, and Nepal.

Zen

Zen is a school of Mahayana Buddhism, which originated in China and is popular in Japan.

Nichiren Buddhism

Nichiren Buddhism is a school of Mahayana Buddhism, which originated in Japan.

Pure Land Buddhism

Pure Land Buddhism is a school of Mahayana Buddhism, which originated in China and is popular in Japan.

Tibetan Buddhism

Tibetan Buddhism is a school of Vajrayana Buddhism, which originated in Tibet.

Thien Buddhism

Thien Buddhism is a school of Mahayana Buddhism, which originated in Vietnam.

Ch'an Buddhism

Ch'an Buddhism is a school of Mahayana Buddhism, which originated in China.

Conclusion

Buddhist texts mention 64 schools of thought or sects, which have different beliefs, practices, and traditions. These schools of thought have developed over time and have spread to different parts of the world. The diversity of Buddhism reflects the richness and complexity of human experience and spirituality.

The Stupas and the Cardinal Points

Stupas are architectural structures that are found in Buddhist temples and are used for meditation and religious purposes. They are also known as pagodas and are usually built in a dome-like shape. The placement of stupas in a temple is of great significance and is usually done in a specific way.

Cardinal Points

Cardinal points refer to the four main directions, i.e., North, South, East, and West. These directions are considered to have a spiritual significance in many cultures and religions. In Buddhist temples, the placement of stupas is done in such a way that they are located in the four cardinal points.

Number of Cardinal Points

The answer to the question is option 'A' (Four). Stupas are generally installed at four cardinal points in a Buddhist temple. The reason for this is that the cardinal points have spiritual significance in Buddhism.

In some cases, stupas may be installed at six or eight points. However, the placement of stupas at these points is not as common as the installation at the four cardinal points.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the placement of stupas in a Buddhist temple is done in a specific way. The installation of stupas at the four cardinal points is the most common practice. This placement is done due to the spiritual significance of the cardinal points in Buddhism.

Extinguishing of the Ego and Desire is Nibbana

Nibbana is a term used in Buddhism to refer to the extinguishing of the ego and desire. This is considered the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice and is believed to bring the end of suffering.

Meaning of Nibbana

The term Nibbana comes from the Pali language, which is the language of the Buddhist scriptures. It can be translated as "extinguishing" or "extinction." In the Buddhist context, it refers to the extinguishing of the fires of greed, hatred, and delusion, which are the root causes of suffering.

Process of Extinguishing the Ego and Desire

The process of extinguishing the ego and desire involves the cultivation of wisdom and compassion through meditation and ethical living. This involves developing an understanding of the impermanence and interdependence of all things, and letting go of attachment to the self and to material possessions.

Benefits of Nibbana

The benefits of achieving Nibbana are said to include the end of suffering, the attainment of peace and happiness, and the ability to help others more effectively. It is considered the highest goal of Buddhist practice and is believed to be achievable by anyone who sincerely practices the teachings of the Buddha.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nibbana is the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice, which involves the extinguishing of the ego and desire. This is achieved through the cultivation of wisdom and compassion, and is believed to bring the end of suffering and the attainment of peace and happiness.

Jaina philosophy is a branch of Indian philosophy that originated in the 6th century BCE. It is based on the teachings of the Jinas, or spiritual conquerors, who are believed to have achieved enlightenment by following the path of non-violence or Ahimsa.

Central to Jaina Philosophy: Non-Injury

The central principle of Jaina philosophy is non-injury or Ahimsa, which is the avoidance of harming any living being, including humans, animals, and plants. It is a fundamental ethical principle that is practiced by Jains in their daily lives.

Importance of Non-Injury in Jaina Philosophy

Non-injury is considered the most important principle in Jaina philosophy because it is believed that every living being has a soul or Jiva, which is eternal and indestructible. Therefore, harming any living being is considered a violation of the sacredness of life and the individual's spiritual growth.

Practical Application of Non-Injury in Jaina Philosophy

Jains practice non-injury in various ways, such as following a vegetarian diet, avoiding the use of leather, and being mindful of their actions and words. They believe that by practicing non-injury, they will accumulate positive karma, which will lead to spiritual advancement and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Conclusion

In conclusion, non-injury is the central principle of Jaina philosophy, and it is considered a fundamental ethical principle that guides the behavior of Jains in their daily lives. By practicing non-injury, Jains believe that they can achieve spiritual growth and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Introduction:
The question asks how many teachers preceded Mahavira. To answer this, we need to have some understanding of Mahavira's life and the tradition he belonged to.

Mahavira and Jainism:
Mahavira was the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, a religious tradition that emerged in ancient India. Jainism emphasizes non-violence, truth, and asceticism. Mahavira is considered the founder of the modern Jain tradition.

Predecessors of Mahavira:
Before Mahavira, there were 23 Tirthankaras who are considered his predecessors. Tirthankaras are spiritual teachers who help guide their followers on the path to spiritual liberation.

Explanation:
The correct answer is option 'B' - 23.

According to Jain tradition, Mahavira was born in the 6th century BCE, around 599 BCE. He was the 24th Tirthankara, which means there were 23 Tirthankaras who preceded him.

Each Tirthankara plays a significant role in Jainism and contributes to the development and preservation of the tradition. They provide teachings and examples for their followers to follow on their spiritual journey.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, there were 23 teachers who preceded Mahavira. These teachers, known as Tirthankaras, were important figures in the development of Jainism and provided guidance and teachings for their followers.

Small Shrines Attached to Sites

Chaityas were the sites with small shrines attached to them. These were Buddhist prayer halls or shrines that often contained relics or sacred objects. Chaityas were an important part of Buddhist architecture and were used for religious rituals and ceremonies.

Features of Chaityas

- Buddhist Prayer Hall: Chaityas were primarily used as prayer halls for Buddhists. They were often located near important Buddhist sites such as stupas or monasteries.

- Small Shrines: Chaityas contained small shrines or niches where Buddhist relics or sacred objects were placed. These shrines were usually adorned with carvings and other decorative elements.

- Circular Domes: Chaityas were typically built with circular domes that symbolized the Buddhist universe. The domes were often decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures.

- Pillars: Chaityas also had pillars that supported the domes. These pillars were often decorated with carvings and sculptures as well.

- Stupa-like Structures: Chaityas were sometimes built in the shape of a stupa, which is a mound-like structure used for Buddhist worship. These structures were often embellished with carvings and sculptures.

Conclusion

Chaityas were an important part of Buddhist architecture and were used for religious purposes. They were characterized by circular domes, small shrines, pillars, and stupa-like structures. Chaityas were often built near important Buddhist sites and contained relics or sacred objects.

Tirthankaras: Guiding Teachers Across the River of Existence

Tirthankaras are revered as the spiritual leaders who guide men and women across the river of existence. This term is associated with Jainism, an ancient Indian religion that emphasizes non-violence and peaceful coexistence. The Tirthankaras are considered enlightened beings who have achieved liberation from the cycle of birth and death, and they offer guidance to others on their spiritual path.

Here is an explanation of the significance and role of Tirthankaras in Jainism:

1. Meaning of Tirthankara
- The term "Tirthankara" is derived from the Sanskrit words "tirtha" (meaning ford, river crossing) and "ankara" (meaning maker or creator).
- Thus, Tirthankara can be understood as the creator of the ford or the bridge that helps individuals cross the river of existence.

2. Spiritual Teachers
- Tirthankaras are considered as spiritual teachers who have achieved enlightenment or Kevala Jnana, the highest form of knowledge.
- They guide people on the path of liberation and help them overcome the cycle of birth and death.
- Tirthankaras are believed to possess infinite wisdom and compassion, providing instructions and teachings for spiritual growth.

3. Liberating Teachings
- Tirthankaras preach the Jain philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-attachment (aparigraha).
- Their teachings promote self-discipline, ethical conduct, and the cultivation of virtues.
- Tirthankaras also emphasize the practice of meditation, self-reflection, and self-control to attain spiritual liberation.

4. Twenty-Four Tirthankaras
- According to Jain tradition, there are twenty-four Tirthankaras who have appeared in different time periods.
- The first Tirthankara is Rishabhadeva (also known as Adinatha) followed by Parshvanatha and Mahavira, who is considered the most recent and prominent Tirthankara.
- Each Tirthankara has a unique name, birthplace, and set of teachings, but they all share the common goal of leading beings towards liberation.

In conclusion, Tirthankaras are revered as the guiding teachers who help men and women cross the river of existence in Jainism. They provide spiritual teachings and guidance, promoting ethical conduct, non-violence, and self-realization. The concept of Tirthankaras is deeply rooted in Jain philosophy and plays a crucial role in the spiritual journey of its followers.