UPSC Prelims 2013 Q37: Art & Culture – Philosophy & Religion
Which one of the following describes best the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism?
- (a) The extinction of the flame of desire
- (b) The complete annihilation of self
- (c) A state of bliss and rest
- (d) A mental stage beyond all comprehension
Answer: (a) The extinction of the flame of desire
Explanation
Nirvana in Buddhism
Nirvana literally means 'blowing out', as of a lamp.
It is the extinction of the flame of desire (tanha), which ends suffering and rebirth.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) The extinction of the flame of desire | Correct | This is the literal and doctrinal meaning |
| (b) The complete annihilation of self | Incorrect | Buddhism denies a permanent self to begin with (anatta) |
| (c) A state of bliss and rest | Incorrect | Closer to the Hindu idea of moksha |
| (d) A mental stage beyond all comprehension | Incorrect | Too vague; not the Buddhist definition |
The Four Noble Truths:
| Truth | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Dukkha | Life is full of suffering |
| Samudaya | Suffering is caused by desire |
| Nirodha | Suffering ends when desire ends (Nirvana) |
| Magga | The way is the Eightfold Path |
Answer: (a) The extinction of the flame of desire.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Nirvana is the extinction of the flame of desire.
- (b) Incorrect. It is not the annihilation of self; Buddhism holds there is no permanent self.
- (c) Incorrect. A state of bliss and rest describes moksha better than Nirvana.
- (d) Incorrect. Nirvana is defined clearly; it is not merely beyond comprehension.
Key point
Nirvana = 'blowing out': the end of desire (tanha), and so of suffering and rebirth; reached through the Eightfold Path.
Remember
Nirvana = extinction of desire.
Common mistakes
- Equating Nirvana with heaven or bliss.
- Forgetting the Buddhist teaching of anatta (no permanent self).
- Not linking Nirvana to the third Noble Truth.
Exam tip
Nirvana = the lamp of desire blown out.
Sources
- NCERT Class XII — Themes in Indian History Part I, Ch 4 (Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings)
- A.L. Basham — The Wonder That Was India (Religion: Buddhism)