The twelfth century witnessed the emergence of a new movement as Viras...
The sect is generally regarded in South Indian oral tradition as having been founded by Basavanna.
The Virashaiva tradition in Karnataka: They worship Shiva in his manifestation as a linga, and men usually wear a small linga in a silver case on a loop strung over the left shoulder.
Lingayats believe that on death the devotee will be united with Shiva and will not return to this world.
View all questions of this test
The twelfth century witnessed the emergence of a new movement as Viras...
The correct answer is option B) It was led by Basavanna.
Explanation:
The Virashaiva tradition emerged in the twelfth century and continues to be an important community in the region to date. This tradition was led by a prominent philosopher and social reformer named Basavanna. Basavanna was a Kannada poet and a key figure in the development of the Virashaiva movement.
Key Points:
- The Emergence of the Virashaiva Tradition: The twelfth century witnessed the emergence of the Virashaiva tradition. This movement was a social and religious reform movement that aimed to challenge the existing social hierarchy and caste system prevalent in society.
- Basavanna: Basavanna was the main leader and founder of the Virashaiva movement. He was born into a Brahmin family but challenged the caste system and advocated for equality and social justice. Basavanna emphasized the importance of spiritual experience over ritualistic practices and rejected the notion of caste-based discrimination.
- Vachanas: Our understanding of the Virashaiva tradition comes from the vachanas composed by the women and men who joined the movement. Vachanas are devotional poetry written in the Kannada language. They express the spiritual experiences, social critique, and philosophical ideas of the Virashaivas.
- Views and Beliefs: The Virashaivas rejected the idea of caste and believed in the equality of all individuals. They emphasized the importance of personal and direct experience of the divine. They advocated for social reform, gender equality, and rejected the notion of untouchability. The Virashaivas also challenged the priestly class and emphasized the idea of a direct relationship with God.
In conclusion, the Virashaiva tradition emerged in the twelfth century and was led by Basavanna. This movement aimed to challenge the caste system and promote social equality and justice. Our understanding of this tradition comes from the vachanas composed by the followers of the movement.