Religious & Epics — Set 2
Books & Authors · धार्मिक और महाकाव्य · Questions 11–20 of 50
The 'Zend Avesta' is the sacred scripture of which religious group?
Correct Answer: C. Zoroastrians
The correct answer is 'Zoroastrians'. The Zend Avesta contains the teachings of the prophet Zarathustra and the ancient religious texts of Persia. It is primarily used by the Parsi community in India today. It emphasizes the cosmic struggle between the forces of light and darkness.
Which medieval Indian work is a Persian translation of the Mahabharata?
Correct Answer: A. Razmnama
The Razmnama or 'Book of War' was commissioned by Emperor Akbar to bridge cultural gaps between religions. It was translated by a team of scholars including Faizi and Badauni. This manuscript was famously illustrated with exquisite Mughal miniature paintings.
Who wrote the 'Ramcharitmanas', the popular Awadhi version of the Ramayana?
Correct Answer: C. Tulsidas
Tulsidas composed this epic in the 16th century to make the story of Rama accessible to common people. It is written in the Awadhi dialect rather than the traditional Sanskrit. It is considered one of the greatest works of Bhakti literature in India.
The 'Puranas' are a vast collection of ancient Indian legends. How many 'Mahapuranas' are there traditionally?
Correct Answer: D. 18
There are eighteen major Puranas that discuss the creation of the universe and lineages of gods and kings. They were written to explain Vedic truths through simplified stories for the general public. Vishnu Purana and Bhagavata Purana are among the most celebrated ones.
In the Buddhist tradition, the 'Jataka Tales' are stories regarding the previous lives of whom?
Correct Answer: A. Gautama Buddha
The Jataka tales describe the Buddha's various incarnations as humans and animals before his final birth. Each story concludes with a moral lesson regarding virtues like compassion and wisdom. These stories are a popular part of Buddhist art and literature across Asia.
The philosophical texts known as 'Upanishads' primarily deal with which subject?
Correct Answer: C. Philosophy and Mysticism
The correct answer is 'Philosophy and Mysticism'. The Upanishads are the concluding parts of the Vedas and discuss the nature of ultimate reality (Brahman) and the self (Atman). They marked a shift in Indian thought from ritualism to spiritual inquiry. The word 'Upanishad' means 'to sit down near' a teacher.
Which of the following is the primary religious text for the Jewish community?
Correct Answer: D. Torah
The Torah consists of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible and contains the laws given to Moses. It is the central reference of the religious Judaic tradition. It is traditionally written on a scroll and kept in a synagogue.
The 'Silappadikaram' is one of the five great epics of which language?
Correct Answer: C. Tamil
The correct answer is 'Tamil'. Silappadikaram, or 'The Tale of the Anklet', was written by the prince-monk Ilango Adigal. It is a masterpiece of Sangam literature that tells the story of Kannagi and her husband Kovalan. It provides rich details about the social and political life of ancient South India.
Which Veda is famously known for its collection of magical spells, charms, and medical knowledge?
Correct Answer: A. Atharva Veda
The Atharva Veda is distinct from the other three as it focuses on the everyday life of people and protective charms. It is often cited as a very early source for Indian medical science and anatomy. It was the last of the four Vedas to be granted canonical status.
The 'Yoga Sutras', a foundational text for Yoga philosophy, were compiled by?
Correct Answer: D. Patanjali
Sage Patanjali systematized the existing practices of Yoga into 196 aphorisms or sutras. The text outlines the eightfold path (Ashtanga Yoga) to achieve spiritual liberation. This work remains the most authoritative guide for classical yoga practice.