UPSC Prelims 2013 Q47: Art & Culture – Philosophy & Religion
Which of the following statements is/are applicable to Jain doctrine?
1. The surest way of annihilating Karma is to practice penance.
2. Every object, even the smallest particle, has a soul.
3. Karma is the bane of the soul and must be ended.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Jain doctrine
| Statement | Verdict | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. The surest way of annihilating Karma is to practice penance | Correct | Jainism stresses severe austerity and penance |
| 2. Every object, even the smallest particle, has a soul | Correct | Jiva exists in plants, stones, water and air |
| 3. Karma is the bane of the soul and must be ended | Correct | Karma is seen as fine matter that clings to the soul |
Core teachings of Jainism:
| Teaching | Detail |
|---|---|
| Three Jewels (Triratna) | Right faith, right knowledge, right conduct |
| Five vows | Ahimsa, satya, asteya, aparigraha, brahmacharya (the last added by Mahavira) |
| Anekantavada | Truth has many sides |
| God | No creator God |
Mahavira was the 24th Tirthankara; Rishabhanatha was the first.
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statements 2 and 3 are also part of Jain doctrine.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 1 on penance is also true.
- (c) Incorrect. Statement 2, that every object has a soul, is also true.
- (d) CORRECT. All three statements apply to Jain doctrine.
Key point
Jainism: every object has a soul (jiva); karma binds the soul and must be destroyed by penance; Triratna; five vows; anekantavada; no creator God.
Remember
Jainism: soul in everything, karma ended by penance.
Common mistakes
- Thinking only living beings have souls in Jainism.
- Confusing Jain extreme penance with the Buddhist Middle Path.
- Forgetting that brahmacharya was the vow Mahavira added.
Exam tip
Buddha chose the Middle Path; Mahavira chose strict penance.
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: Jainism)