Religious & Epics — Set 1
Books & Authors · धार्मिक और महाकाव्य · Questions 1–10 of 50
Which ancient sage is traditionally regarded as the author of the epic 'Ramayana'?
Correct Answer: A. Valmiki
Sage Valmiki is revered as the Adi Kavi or the first poet for composing the Sanskrit Ramayana. The epic tells the life story of Prince Rama and his quest to rescue his wife Sita. It consists of seven books known as Kandas.
The 'Mahabharata', considered the world's longest epic, is attributed to which author?
Correct Answer: C. Ved Vyasa
Sage Ved Vyasa is the traditional author who compiled the massive 100,000 verses of the Mahabharata. It chronicles the dynastic struggle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. The epic also contains the philosophical dialogue of the Bhagavad Gita.
Which of the following is considered the oldest of the four Vedas in Indian tradition?
Correct Answer: C. Rig Veda
The Rig Veda is the most ancient and primary source of Indo-Aryan civilization and mythology. It consists of over a thousand hymns dedicated to various deities like Indra and Agni. It was orally preserved for centuries before being committed to writing.
The 'Tripitaka', the primary sacred scriptures of Buddhism, were originally written in which language?
Correct Answer: D. Pali
The Tripitaka or the 'Three Baskets' are the canonical texts of Theravada Buddhism written in Pali. They include rules for monks, discourses of the Buddha, and philosophical analysis. These texts were finalized during various Buddhist Councils.
Who authored the Jaina sacred text 'Kalpa Sutra', which contains the biographies of Tirthankaras?
Correct Answer: A. Bhadrabahu
Bhadrabahu was a prominent Jaina monk and scholar who wrote the Kalpa Sutra in the 4th century BC. The book is especially famous for documenting the life of Lord Mahavira. It is frequently recited by practitioners during the Paryushana festival.
The 'Bhagavad Gita' is found within which Parva (book) of the Mahabharata?
Correct Answer: C. Bhishma Parva
The Bhagavad Gita occurs in the Bhishma Parva when Arjuna refuses to fight his relatives. It serves as a synthesis of various Hindu philosophical ideas regarding duty and devotion. It comprises eighteen chapters and 700 Sanskrit verses.
Which of the following books is the primary religious text of Sikhism?
Correct Answer: C. Guru Granth Sahib
The Guru Granth Sahib is the final and eternal Guru of the Sikhs, compiled by the Sikh Gurus. It contains hymns from the Gurus as well as compositions from various Hindu and Muslim saints. It is treated with extreme reverence and kept in Gurdwaras.
Which ancient text is known as the 'Fifth Veda' due to its comprehensive cultural significance?
Correct Answer: D. Mahabharata
The Mahabharata is often called the Fifth Veda as it covers religion, philosophy, law, and social conduct. It aims to provide knowledge to all sections of society regardless of their background. This title reflects its status as an encyclopedia of ancient Indian wisdom.
The 'Milinda Panha' is a famous dialogue between the Buddhist monk Nagasena and which Indo-Greek king?
Correct Answer: C. Menander
The book records the questions of King Menander (Milinda) and the scholarly answers provided by Nagasena. It is highly regarded for its logical explanation of Buddhist doctrines. The text is an important historical source for the interaction between Greek and Indian cultures.
Which Veda is primarily concerned with the melodies and chants for ritual sacrifices?
Correct Answer: A. Sama Veda
The Sama Veda is known as the Veda of melodies and is the root of Indian classical music. It consists of verses taken from the Rig Veda but set to musical notations. It was sung by special priests called Udgatars during sacrifices.