What are the primary means through which the ideas of philosophers have been preserved over the centuries?

The ideas of philosophers have been preserved through oral and written texts, architecture, and sculpture.

Fill in the blanks: Buddhism was developed as part of a broader landscape where multiple traditions engaged in ongoing ___ and ___.

Debates and dialogues

True or False: The stupa at Sanchi is one of the least well-preserved monuments from the period of ancient philosophies.

False. The stupa at Sanchi is among the most well-preserved monuments from this period.

What role do historians play in exploring the ideas and beliefs of ancient philosophies?

Historians rely on diverse sources such as Buddhist, Jaina, and Brahmanical texts, along with material evidence like monuments and inscriptions.

Fill in the blank: Buddhism did not develop in ___; it emerged in a context rich with other traditions.

Isolation

What role did the rulers of Bhopal play in the preservation of Sanchi?

The rulers of Bhopal, Shahjehan Begum and Sultan Jehan Begum, provided financial support for the preservation of the ancient site of Sanchi.

True or False: The Rigveda is a collection of hymns that were used exclusively for individual household sacrifices.

False. The Rigveda consisted of hymns for both collective sacrifices and later for individual household sacrifices.

What philosophical themes are explored in the Upanishads from around the sixth century BCE?

The Upanishads reflect a deep curiosity about the meaning of life, the possibility of life after death, and the concept of rebirth.

Fill in the blank: Mahavira and Buddha questioned the authority of the Vedas and emphasized ___ agency.

Individual

Multiple Choice: Which of the following sacrifices was performed by chiefs and kings with the help of Brahmana priests? A) Rajasuya B) Ashvamedha C) Both A and B D) None of the above

C) Both A and B

What is the significance of the principle of ahimsa in Jainism?

Ahimsa, or non-violence, is a core principle in Jainism that emphasizes respect for all living beings, influencing broader Indian thought and ethical practices.

Jaina monks and nuns take five vows. List these vows.

The five vows taken by Jaina monks and nuns are: to abstain from killing, stealing, and lying; to observe celibacy; and to abstain from possessing property.

The cycle of birth and rebirth in Jainism is influenced by ___ and can be escaped through ___ and ___ .

Karma; asceticism; penance

True or False: Jainism teaches that the entire world is inanimate and devoid of life.

False. Jainism teaches that the entire world is animated, meaning that even stones, rocks, and water have life.

What role did tirthankaras play in Jain philosophy?

Tirthankaras are revered teachers in Jainism who guide individuals across the river of existence, representing the path to liberation.

How did Jainism spread across India?

Jainism spread across various regions of India over time, supported by the production of literature by Jain scholars and the preservation of texts in libraries connected to Jain temples.

Who was Siddhartha before he became the Buddha?

Siddhartha was the son of a chief of the Sakya clan.

The Buddha attained enlightenment after how many days of meditation?

He meditated for several days.

Fill in the blank: The teachings of Buddha spread to countries such as ___ and ___.

China and Japan

True or False: Siddhartha was satisfied with his life in the palace.

False. He was deeply anguished by the realities of old age, disease, and death.