Q1. Statements:
- Jainism upholds the equality of all living beings.
- Every living entity is believed to possess a soul.
- The doctrine of Karma is central to Jain philosophy and influences the quality of life.
- Mahavira rejected the Varna system, unlike some other Tirthankaras.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) None
Q1. (c) Only three
Explanation
- 1 — Correct: Jainism recognises the spiritual equality of all living beings (jivas) through the doctrine of Ahimsa.
- 2 — Correct: Every living being is believed to possess a soul; even plants and microorganisms are classified as living entities.
- 3 — Correct: Karma in Jainism is a material substance that binds to the soul and determines the quality of life and rebirth.
- 4 — Incorrect: All Tirthankaras preached the same ethical-philosophical framework; Mahavira did not articulate a doctrine distinct from earlier Tirthankaras in relation to varna. Jainism rejected ritual hierarchy, but the claim that this position was unique to Mahavira is inaccurate.
Q2.
Which of the following are components of the Triratna in Jainism?
- Right Livelihood
- Right Faith
- Right Concentration
- Right Knowledge
- Right Conduct
Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1, 4 and 5
(c) 2, 4 and 5
(d) 2, 3 and 4
Q2. (c) 2, 4 and 5
Explanation
The Triratna (Three Jewels) of Jainism are:
- Right Faith (Samyak Darshana) ✔
- Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana) ✔
- Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra) ✔
They do not include Right Livelihood or Right Concentration (these belong to the Buddhist Eightfold Path).
Q3.
Statements:
- The philosophical tradition of Jainism predates Buddhism.
- Rishabhadeva is regarded as the earliest Tirthankara, and his symbol is a cow.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Q3. (a) 1 only
Explanation
- 1 — Correct: Jain philosophical traditions and ascetic ideas are considered older than Buddhism, with references traced to pre-Buddhist śramaṇa currents.
- 2 — Incorrect: Rishabhadeva (Adinatha) is the first Tirthankara, but his symbol is a bull, not a cow.
Q4.
Statements:
- Samvara refers to the process of blocking or restraining the inflow of Karma.
- The concept of Samvara is associated with the Hinayana school of Buddhism.
- Samvara is linked to the attainment of omniscience after the elimination of all Karmas.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) Only three
(d) None
Q4. (a) Only one
Explanation
- 1 — Correct: Samvara refers to blocking or restraining the inflow of new karmic matter to the soul.
- 2 — Incorrect: It is a Jain doctrine, not related to Hinayana Buddhism.
- 3 — Incorrect: Omniscience (Kevala-jnana) is attained after complete removal of karmas (Nirjara); Samvara only prevents further inflow and is not itself omniscience.
Thus, only Statement 1 is correct.
Q5.
Statements:
- The spread of Jainism declined during the reign of Kalinga ruler Kharavela.
- Jainism expanded in South India under the leadership of Sthulabhadra.
- Chandragupta Maurya played a role in strengthening the Jain tradition in North India.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None of the above
Q5. (d) None of the above
Explanation
- 1 — Incorrect: Kalinga ruler Kharavela patronised Jainism; inscriptions (Hathigumpha) show revival and support, not decline.
- 2 — Incorrect: Expansion of Jainism in the South is linked to Bhadrabahu-led migration, not Sthulabhadra (who remained in the North).
- 3 — Incorrect: Chandragupta Maurya strengthened Jain influence primarily in South India (Śravaṇabeḷgoḷa), not in the North.
Hence, none of the statements is correct.
