MasteryExams
History • Ancient IndiaHard

Analyze the philosophical doctrines of Jainism regarding liberation and asceticism: 1. Jainism emphasizes the doctrine of absolute non-violence and extreme asceticism, asserting that even inanimate objects possess jiva or life. 2. The ultimate spiritual goal is the attainment of Nirvana through the practice of Sallekhana, which is voluntary ritual fasting unto death. 3. Mahavira accepted the authority of the Vedas and Vedic sacrifices while rejecting the caste system. Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only✓ Correct Answer
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

💡 Solution & Explanation

Jainism categorically rejects the authority of the Vedas, Vedic rituals, and Brahmanical supremacy, making statement three incorrect. Statements one and two are correct because Jainism teaches strict non-violence, panpsychism where even natural elements possess souls, and Sallekhana as a legitimate spiritual practice for spiritual liberation. Mahavira was the twenty-fourth Tirthankara of Jainism. The Jain canon is preserved in the form of Agangas and Purvas.

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