Buddhism & Jainism — Set 2
Indian History · बौद्ध और जैन धर्म · Questions 11–20 of 90
Which language was primarily used for the composition of the early Jain texts (Agamas)?
Correct Answer: B. Ardha-Magadhi
The early Jain canonical texts, known as Agamas, were written in Ardha-Magadhi Prakrit. This language was the common speech of the people in the region where Mahavira preached. Later Jain texts were also composed in Sanskrit and Apabhramsha.
Who was the teacher of Gautama Buddha before he attained Enlightenment?
Correct Answer: C. Alara Kalama
Alara Kalama was one of the first teachers of Prince Siddhartha (Buddha) after his renunciation. He taught the technique of meditation leading to the sphere of nothingness. Buddha mastered this but left as he felt it did not lead to final liberation.
The separation of Jainism into Digambara and Shvetambara sects occurred after which event?
Correct Answer: C. First Jain Council
The schism into Digambara and Shvetambara sects crystallized after the First Jain Council at Pataliputra. This happened around 300 BCE during a famine in Magadha. The Shvetambaras accepted the compiled texts, while the Digambaras rejected them.
What does the Buddhist term 'Sangha' refer to?
Correct Answer: B. The monastic order
In Buddhism, 'Sangha' refers to the community or monastic order of monks and nuns. It is one of the Three Jewels (Triratna) of Buddhism along with Buddha and Dhamma. Members of the Sangha renounce worldly life to practice the Dharma.
Which King patronized the First Buddhist Council?
Correct Answer: B. Ajatashatru
The First Buddhist Council was patronized by King Ajatashatru of the Haryanka dynasty. It was held in the Sattapanni Cave at Rajgriha shortly after Buddha's death. The council aimed to preserve the Buddha's sayings (Suttas) and monastic rules (Vinaya).
The 'Kalpasutra', a significant Jain text, is attributed to whom?
Correct Answer: C. Bhadrabahu
The Kalpasutra is attributed to Bhadrabahu, a prominent Jain monk. It contains the biographies of the Jain Tirthankaras, notably Parshvanatha and Mahavira. It is a vital text specifically for the Shvetambara sect.
In Buddhist symbolism, what does the 'Horse' represent?
Correct Answer: B. Great Renunciation
The 'Horse' (Kanthaka) represents the Great Renunciation (Mahabhinishkramana) of Prince Siddhartha. It symbolizes his departure from the royal palace to seek the truth. The horse signifies energy and speed in spiritual pursuit.
The Fourth Buddhist Council, which led to the division into Hinayana and Mahayana, was held in which region?
Correct Answer: B. Kashmir
The Fourth Buddhist Council was held in Kundalavana, Kashmir. It took place during the reign of the Kushana emperor Kanishka. This council marked the formal split of Buddhism into the Hinayana and Mahayana sects.
Which of the following represents the correct chronological order of Tirthankaras?
Correct Answer: B. Rishabhanatha, Neminatha, Parshvanatha, Mahavira
Rishabhanatha was the 1st Tirthankara, Neminatha was the 22nd, Parshvanatha the 23rd, and Mahavira the 24th. This makes the correct order Rishabhanatha, Neminatha, Parshvanatha, Mahavira. They are the most historically significant figures in Jain tradition.
What is the meaning of the term 'Jina' from which Jainism derives its name?
Correct Answer: D. The Conqueror
The word 'Jain' comes from the Sanskrit word 'Jina', which means 'The Conqueror'. It refers to one who has conquered inner enemies like attachment, anger, and pride. Mahavira is often referred to as a Jina.