UPSC Prelims 2013 · Question 97 of 99
UPSC Prelims 2013 question on Jain Karma Soul Penance
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2013
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectArt and Culture
- TopicBuddhism and Jainism
- DifficultyEasy
- TypeStatement
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:
Show answer
Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3
Verdict
Correct Answer: 1, 2 and 3
All three statements reflect core Jain ideas about karma, soul and liberation, so the correct answer is 1, 2 and 3.
Analysis
According to the official UPSC Answer Key for Prelims 2013 General Studies Paper, the correct option is 1, 2 and 3.
Jain doctrine gives central importance to the soul, karma and liberation. It views karma as a real obstacle that binds the soul and must be removed through right conduct and austerity.
Statement by statement
1. The surest way of annihilating Karma is to practice penance — Correct
In Jainism, karma is believed to bind the soul and obstruct liberation.
Penance, austerity and self-discipline help in Nirjara, which means shedding accumulated karma.
Thus, penance is considered an important way to destroy karma.
2. Every object, even the smallest particle has a soul — Correct
Jainism believes that living beings possess jiva or soul.
It gives a very wide meaning to life and consciousness, extending it to plants and even very subtle forms of existence.
This belief is closely linked to the Jain emphasis on extreme non-violence.
3. Karma is the bane of the soul and must be ended — Correct
In Jain philosophy, karma is seen as a subtle material substance that attaches to the soul.
It prevents the soul from attaining its pure qualities such as infinite knowledge and bliss.
Therefore, karma must be completely removed for moksha.
Extra UPSC info
* Jainism emphasizes Triratna: Right Faith, Right Knowledge and Right Conduct.
* The two key processes related to karma are Samvara, stopping new karma, and Nirjara, shedding accumulated karma.
* Ahimsa is the most important ethical principle in Jainism.
* Anekantavada means the doctrine of many-sided reality.
* Jainism has 24 Tirthankaras; Rishabhanatha was the first and Mahavira was the 24th.
* The five vows are Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya and Aparigraha.