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Summary
The chapter discusses the emergence and teachings of Jainism and Buddhism in 6th century BC India. During this period, socio-economic changes and dissatisfaction with the prevailing religious practices contributed to the rise of these two significant religious reform movements.
Jainism was founded by Mahavira, who was the 24th Tirthankara in a line of teachers. He preached non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession as the core principles, also known as the five vows. Jainism rejected the authority of the Vedas and emphasized asceticism, karma, and the cycle of rebirths. It believed that salvation could be achieved through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, collectively known as the Tri-ratnas. Jainism spread in parts of India, particularly in the western and southern regions, and made significant contributions to Indian art, architecture, and literature.
Buddhism, founded by Gautama Buddha, also emerged as a response to the rigid caste system and ritualistic practices of the time. Buddha, originally a prince named Siddhartha, renounced his royal life after witnessing human suffering. He attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya and spent his life teaching the Four Noble Truths: the existence of suffering, its cause (desire), the cessation of suffering, and the path leading to this cessation, known as the Eightfold Path. This path emphasizes right understanding, intention, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration. Buddhism attracted followers across various classes and spread beyond India, significantly influencing the cultural and spiritual landscapes of many Asian countries. It also left a lasting legacy on Indian art, language, and religious practices.
Both religions share similarities, such as their rejection of the Vedas and emphasis on non-violence, but they differ in their approaches. Jainism is more ascetic and rigid, while Buddhism offers a middle path between extreme asceticism and indulgence. The chapter also touches upon the reasons for the decline of these religions in India, including internal divisions, the resurgence of Hinduism, and lack of royal patronage.
Textbook (Total History) solutions
Multiple-Choice Questions
1. Which of the following means “Three Baskets” of Buddhist canon?
A. Jataka
B. Tripitikas
C. Dwadashangi
D. Angas
Answer: B. Tripitikas
2. Besides the five vows and other general doctrines of Jainism, Jains are expected to have knowledge of the _____ truths?
A. Seven
B. Five
C. Ten
D. Nine
Answer: D. Nine
3. Jataka tales give information about:
A. Buddha’s life
B. Socio-economic conditions
C. Climatic conditions
D. None of the above
Answer: A. Buddha’s life
4. Vardhamana Mahavira was the:
A. Twenty-fourth tirthankara
B. First tirthankara
C. Sixth tirthankara
D. Tenth tirthankara
Answer: A. Twenty-fourth tirthankara
5. Tirthankaras are:
A. Saints preaching doctrines of Hinduism
B. Saints preaching doctrines of Jainism
C. Saints preaching doctrines of Buddhism
D. None of the above
Answer: B. Saints preaching doctrines of Jainism
6. Jain texts were composed in:
A. Local languages
B. Prakrit
C. Sanskrit
D. Both (a) and (b)
Answer: B. Prakrit
7. Buddha’s Great Renunciation was a result of:
A. The four great sights
B. His marriage to a princess
C. His turning into an ascetic
D. All of the above
Answer: A. The four great sights
8. Which of the following is incorrect?
A. Mahabhiskramana: The Great Renunciation
B. Dharmachakrapravartana: Turning of the wheel of sacred law
C. Chaudharma: Four Noble Truths
D. Ashtangika Marg: Eightfold Path
Answer: C. Chaudharma: Four Noble Truths
9. The members of the monastic orders of Buddhism are called _____ and _____ .
A. Bhikshus; Bhikshunis
B. Bikhu; Bikani
C. Sangha; Sanghi
D. Vinaya; Vinayaka
Answer: A. Bhikshus; Bhikshunis
10. Buddhist texts were mainly composed in:
A. Sanskrit
B. Pali
C. Prakrit
D. None of the above
Answer: B. Pali
11. Semi-circular solid domes are called _____ ; monasteries are called _____ and _____ are large rectangular prayer halls.
A. Stupas; viharas
B. Viharas; chaityas
C. Chaityas; stupas
D. Stupas; chaityas
Answer: A. Stupas; viharas; chaityas
12. Which of the following vows means “practising chastity”?
A. Asteya
B. Ahimsa
C. Aparigraha
D. Brahmacharya
Answer: D. Brahmacharya
Select the correct relationship
1. (A) In the sixth century BC, orthodox religious beliefs and practices were challenged by new sects.
(B) During this period, Jainism and Buddhism emerged as important religious reform movements.
(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.
Answer: B. (B) is the reason for (A)
Explanation: The sixth century BC saw significant changes in religious thought, with the emergence of new sects like Jainism and Buddhism. These movements arose as a direct challenge to the orthodox religious practices that had become rigid and ritualistic. Jainism and Buddhism offered simpler, more accessible alternatives, which appealed to many people and led to the questioning of the established religious norms.
2. (A) Angas and Upangas are Jain texts which were orally passed on by religious leaders to their pupils.
(B) Tripitikas are the most important literary works of Jains.
(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.
Answer: C. (A) is true but (B) is false
Explanation: Angas and Upangas are indeed significant Jain texts, and they were passed down orally before being written down. However, the Tripitikas are not Jain texts; they are actually the most important literary works of Buddhism. The Tripitikas contain the teachings of Buddha and are written in Pali, not related to Jainism.
3. (A) Jainism and Buddhism grew and spread as a reaction against ritualism prevalent in the existing religious practices.
(B) Most of the Vedic literature was composed in Sanskrit and difficult to be understood by the common people.
(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.
Answer: B. (B) is the reason for (A)
Explanation: The complexity and exclusivity of Vedic literature, which was composed in Sanskrit, contributed to the spread of Jainism and Buddhism. These religions offered teachings in languages that were more accessible to the common people, making them appealing alternatives to the ritualistic practices that were associated with the Vedic traditions.
4. (A) Mahavira attained salvation at Pavapuri in Bihar.
(B) Mahavira gave his first sermon at Deer Park in Sarnath near Varanasi.
(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.
Answer: C. (A) is true but (B) is false
Explanation: Mahavira did attain salvation at Pavapuri in Bihar, which is a fact related to his life. However, the statement that Mahavira gave his first sermon at Deer Park in Sarnath is incorrect; this event is associated with Gautama Buddha, not Mahavira. Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath, marking the beginning of his public teaching.
5. (A) According to Jainism, good deeds alone liberate a man from the cycle of life and death.
(B) Jains believe in Moksha or freedom from the cycle of births and rebirths.
(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.
Answer: B. (B) is the reason for (A)
Explanation: The belief in Moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death, is central to Jainism. Good deeds (karma) are considered crucial in this process, as they determine one’s progress towards Moksha. Thus, the belief in Moksha underpins the importance of performing good deeds in Jain philosophy.
Short Answer Questions
1. What are Angas? What is the subject matter of these Angas?
Answer: Angas are generally accepted as whatever Lord Mahavira taught after gaining omniscience, compiled by his disciples in 12 parts called Angas, a Sanskrit word for parts. These Angas are regarded as the most important part of the Jain doctrines. They discuss religious rites, stages of a householder’s life, the vows of chastity, rules of conduct and other features of Jain philosophy.
2. What are the Tripitikas? Name the three Tripitikas.
Answer: Tripitikas are the most important literary works of the Buddhists. The word ‘Tripitika’ means Three Baskets of Buddhist canon. These works, written in Pali language, include the following:
- The Vinaya Pitaka
- The Sutta Pitaka
- The Abhidhamma Pitaka
3. State two important causes for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism.
Answer:
- Reaction against Ritualism: Religious ceremonies by then had become very expensive, beyond the means of ordinary people. Some priests hardly realised the sufferings of the common man. This was an important cause that gave rise to faiths that were simple and inexpensive.
- Corruption in Religion: Corruption crept into religious practices. In order to increase their own wealth, priests encouraged ordinary people to perform yajnas and conduct household rites beyond their means.
4. Who was Vardhamana Mahavira? Give the significance of both parts of his name.
Answer: Mahavira was the twenty-fourth and the last of the tirthankaras. He made Jainism popular and systematic. That is why Mahavira is considered as the founder of Jainism. At the time of his birth, his father’s kingdom was prosperous; so the boy was called Vardhamana (Prosperity). For these deeds of bravery, he was called Mahavira.
5. List any four vows prescribed for the Jains.
Answer:
- Ahimsa: non-violence.
- Achaurya or Asteya: not stealing.
- Satya: not telling a lie.
- Aparigraha: not possessing property.
6. What are known as the Triratnas?
Answer: Mahavira preached that the ultimate goal of man is to attain freedom from worldly bonds or to attain ‘moksha’. It can be obtained by following tri-ratnas or three jewels:
- right faith,
- right knowledge, and
- right conduct.
7. Give two causes for the spread of Jainism.
Answer:
- Local Dialect: Mahavira adopted the language of the common people, i.e., Prakrit instead of Sanskrit to preach his doctrines. Later, the monks followed the same practice. People found it easier to follow the preachings of Jainism in the local language.
- Royal Patronage: Jainism received royal patronage. Chandragupta Maurya is said to have been converted to Jainism in the later years of his rule. In the 5th century AD Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas also patronised Jainism. Kharavela, the ruler of Kalinga (Odisha), helped in the spread of Jainism in eastern India.
8. Name the two sects into which Jainism got divided. Why were they so called?
Answer: The two sects into which Jainism got divided are Shvetambaras and Digambaras.
- Shvetambaras or the white-clads were led by Sthulabhadra. They wore white clothes and covered their faces with a small white cloth.
- Digambaras followed Bhadrabahu. They were sky-clad and did not believe in covering their bodies.
9. List any two reasons for Jainism having few followers.
Answer:
- Jainism preached rigid austerity. It rose at a time when Buddhism also existed. The theory of ahimsa was extended even to wearing of clothes. These factors prevented it from getting popular support.
- The religion did not spread to foreign countries. It did not have a missionary effort.
10. Who was Gautam Buddha? Where was he born?
Answer: Gautama Buddha was the founder of Buddhism. He was born in 563 BC at Lumbini near Kapilavastu, in Nepal.
11. What are known as Four Great Sights?
Answer: The Four Great Sights are:
- An old man bent with age
- A sick man groaning with pain
- A dead body being carried for cremation
- An ascetic in search of salvation
12. How did Buddha attain enlightenment?
Answer: After leaving home in search of Truth, Gautama wandered from place to place. For some time he studied under renowned teachers of Rajgriha and then went to Gaya. He practised severe penance and led a life of extreme austerity. Finally, at the age of thirty-five Gautama attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya in Bihar.
13. Give Four Noble Truths of Buddhism.
Answer: The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism are:
- The world is full of suffering.
- The suffering has a cause.
- Desire is the cause of suffering.
- If desire is stopped, suffering can also be stopped.
14. Give any four points of the Eightfold Path of Buddha.
Answer:
- Right action: To remain away from theft, luxuries, and violence.
- Right thought: To remain away from empty rituals and worldly evils.
- Right belief: To give up desire.
- Right speech: Speak the truth and do not think ill of others.
15. Give the meaning of Buddha and Tathagat.
Answer: Buddha means the Enlightened One. Tathagat means the founder of Truth.
16. Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath. What is this event called? What is the literal meaning of the name of the event?
Answer: This event is called Dharmachakrapravartana, which means the turning of the wheel of sacred law.
17. Name any two principles that governed the Sangha.
Answer:
- The members had to take the oath – Buddham Sharnam Gachhami, Dharmam Sharnam Gachhami and Sangam Sharnam Gachhami.
- The members had to follow the ten commandments (Paramita), including not to harm creatures and not to own property.
18. State any two features of Buddhism that attracted people towards it.
Answer:
- Buddhism fostered intellectual tradition and exposed the weaknesses in society. The weaker sections of society, who had been subjected to many atrocities, got an opportunity to have their say in matters of political and social life.
- Buddhism made valuable contributions to the field of language and literature, particularly through works written in Pali, the language of the masses.
19. Give two differences between Hinayana and Mahayana Buddhism.
Answer:
- Hinayana denies the existence of God and does not believe that Buddha was God. Mahayana believes that Buddha was an incarnation of God.
- Hinayana shuns idol worship, while Mahayana involves the worship of images of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas.
20. Give two causes for the decline of Buddhism.
Answer:
- Corruption in Sangha: The monks and nuns started living a luxurious life. There was deterioration in spiritual life, and religious decline was not a surprise.
- Reforms in Hinduism: A reform movement in Hinduism started with full vigour, and the appeal of new religions vanished. Hinduism assimilated the positive aspects of Buddhism.
Structured Questions
1. With reference to the sources of information about Jainism and Buddhism, state the significance of the following:
(a) Angas
Answer: It is generally accepted that whatever Lord Mahavira taught after gaining omniscience was compiled by his disciples in 12 parts called Angas, a Sanskrit word for parts. These Angas are collectively known as Dwadashangi. The foremost of these Angas is Aacharang Sutra. Another well-known Anga is the Vyakyha Pragnapti, more popularly known as Bhagavati Sutra. The Angas discuss religious rites, stages of a householder’s life, the vows of chastity, rules of conduct, and other features of Jain philosophy.
(b) Tripitikas
Answer: Tripitikas are the most important literary works of the Buddhists. The word ‘Tripitika’ means ‘Three Baskets’ of Buddhist canon. These works, written in Pali language, include the Vinaya Pitaka, which deals with the rules for monks and nuns, the Sutta Pitaka, which comprises the discourses of Buddha, and the Abhidhamma Pitaka, which deals with Buddhist philosophy.
(c) Jatakas
Answer: Jatakas refer to tales that describe the previous births of Buddha, in both human and animal form. These stories highlight virtues exhibited by the Buddha in his previous lives. The Jatakas provide insight into the political, economic, and social conditions from the fifth to the second century BC and reflect Buddhist morals, ethics, and principles.
2. With reference to Jainism and Buddhism, answer the following questions:
(a) Give briefly the background of the socio-economic conditions in 6th century BC.
Answer: In the sixth century BC, Aryan settlements expanded eastward, leading to rapid socio-economic and political changes. Iron tools enabled people to clear forests, cultivate more land, and produce surplus food, which supported military and administrative needs. This expansion led to wars between tribes, resulting in the creation of large kingdoms called janapadas, which later joined to form more powerful independent kingdoms known as mahajanapadas.
(b) State any three causes for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism.
Answer:
- Reaction against Ritualism: Religious ceremonies had become very expensive, beyond the means of ordinary people, leading to a search for simpler, more accessible faiths.
- Corruption in Religion: Priests encouraged costly rituals for their own gain, leading to dissatisfaction among Kshatriya rulers and common people.
- Rigid Caste System: The rigid caste system limited social mobility, prompting a search for alternative religions that offered more equality.
(c) What caused the division of Jainism into two sects?
Answer: Differences arose between Bhadrabahu, who took Jainism to Karnataka, and Sthulabhadra, who remained in Magadha. These differences surfaced during the first Jain council around 300 BC, leading to the division of Jainism into two groups: Shvetambaras, who wore white clothes, and Digambaras, who were sky-clad and believed in extreme austerity.
3. With reference to Jainism, answer the following questions:
(a) Who was Mahavira? Why was he called Jina?
Answer: Mahavira was the twenty-fourth and last tirthankara, who made Jainism popular and systematic, hence considered its founder. After years of severe penance, he obtained supreme knowledge and subdued his desires, earning the title Jina, meaning “conqueror.”
(b) State the five vows which a Jain householder has to take.
Answer: A Jain householder has to take the following five vows:
(i) Ahimsa: non-violence.
(ii) Achaurya or Asteya: not stealing.
(iii) Satya: not telling a lie.
(iv) Aparigraha: not possessing property.
(v) Brahmacharya: practising chastity.
(c) State the Jains’ view on Karma and Salvation.
Answer: Jains believe in the Karma theory, where one’s actions determine future rebirths. Salvation or Moksha is achieved by leading an austere life based on non-violence and self-denial, following the tri-ratnas of right faith, right knowledge, and right action.
4. With reference to Buddhism, answer the following questions:
(a) Who was Gautama Buddha? How did he achieve enlightenment?
Answer: Gautama Buddha, born as Siddharth in 563 BC, was the founder of Buddhism. After years of wandering and practising severe austerity, he attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya in Bihar at the age of thirty-five, becoming the Buddha or “Enlightened One.”
(b) What is known as ‘Dharmachakrapravartana’?
Answer: Dharmachakrapravartana refers to the event when Buddha delivered his first sermon at the Deer Park in Sarnath, marking the turning of the wheel of sacred law.
(c) How did Buddha have a large following?
Answer: Buddha’s teachings spread far and wide as he travelled across the country for forty years, establishing a Bodh Sangha and gaining followers from all classes, including rulers like those of Magadha, Kosala, and Kosambi.
5. With reference to Buddhism, answer the following questions:
(a) What is the Eightfold Path?
Answer: The Eightfold Path is the Buddhist way to nirvana, comprising:
(i) Right action: avoiding theft, luxuries, and violence.
(ii) Right thought: avoiding empty rituals and worldly evils.
(iii) Right belief: giving up desire.
(iv) Right living: avoiding dishonest dealings.
(v) Right speech: speaking truth and avoiding harmful speech.
(vi) Right effort: striving for the welfare of others.
(vii) Right recollection: focusing on virtuous thoughts.
(viii) Right meditation: concentrating on what is right.
(b) What was the impact of Buddhism on the socio-religious life of the people?
Answer: Buddhism promoted Ahimsa, which influenced social practices and later became a tool for non-violent resistance in India’s freedom struggle. It challenged Hindu practices, leading to reforms, and offered a voice to weaker sections of society, fostering intellectual tradition and exposing social weaknesses.
(c) What role did the Sangha play in the spread of Buddhism?
Answer: The Sangha, a monastic order established by Buddha, played a crucial role in spreading Buddhism. Members, known as Bhikshus and Bhikshunis, renounced worldly life and followed strict commandments, including truthfulness and non-violence. The Sangha’s disciplined life and teachings helped Buddhism spread far and wide.
6. With reference to the given pictures, answer the questions that follow.
(A)
(a) Identify the two preachers, whose images are given. Name the religions founded by them.
Answer: The two preachers are Gautama Buddha, who founded Buddhism, and Mahavira, who founded Jainism.
(b) Mention three main teachings of each of the two religions founded by these preachers.
Answer:
- Buddhism:
- The world is full of suffering.
- Desire is the cause of suffering.
- The Eightfold Path leads to the cessation of suffering.
- Jainism:
- Ahimsa: non-violence.
- Satya: not telling a lie.
- Aparigraha: not possessing property.
(c) Mention any two similarities and two dissimilarities between the two religions founded by them.
Answer:
- Similarities:
- Both Jainism and Buddhism preach non-violence (Ahimsa).
- Both reject the authority of the Vedas and rituals.
- Dissimilarities:
- Jainism emphasizes hard penance and extreme renunciation, while Buddhism follows a middle path.
- Jainism remained confined to India, while Buddhism spread widely across Asia.
Thinking Skills
1. The most important precept of Jainism is ahimsa or non-violence. It was popularised by Mahatma Gandhi during India’s freedom struggle. Do you think the philosophy of ahimsa is as relevant today as it was in the era of Mahavira?
Answer: Yes, the philosophy of ahimsa is as relevant today as it was in the era of Mahavira. In today’s world, where terrorism, violence, and conflicts are prevalent, the principle of non-violence can play a crucial role in promoting peace and harmony. Ahimsa encourages individuals and nations to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence, thereby fostering a culture of tolerance and understanding. The philosophy of non-violence also extends to the environment, advocating for the protection of animals and the preservation of nature, which is highly relevant in addressing current global challenges like climate change and environmental degradation.
2. What were the reasons due to which Buddhism could spread beyond the Indian borders in other countries of the world?
Answer: Buddhism spread beyond Indian borders due to several reasons:
- The simplicity of Buddha’s teachings, which appealed to the masses, made it easy to understand and follow.
- The support from influential kings like Ashoka, who not only embraced Buddhism but also sent missionaries to other countries to spread the teachings.
- The monastic order (Sangha) established by Buddha played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism, as monks traveled to distant lands to preach.
- The use of local languages like Pali and Prakrit instead of Sanskrit made Buddhist teachings accessible to the common people in different regions.
- Buddhism’s emphasis on non-violence, compassion, and equality resonated with people in various countries, leading to its adoption and spread.
3. List the similarities and differences in the religions – Jainism, Buddhism and Hinduism.
Answer:
Similarities:
- All three religions originated in India and have coexisted for centuries.
- They believe in the concepts of karma and rebirth.
- The three religions advocate non-violence and compassion towards all living beings.
- They stress on leading a moral and ethical life to attain spiritual liberation.
Differences:
- Jainism and Buddhism do not accept the authority of the Vedas, which is central to Hinduism.
- Hinduism believes in a multitude of gods and goddesses, whereas Jainism and Buddhism emphasize more on personal spiritual development without a strong emphasis on gods.
- Jainism and Buddhism were founded as reform movements against the ritualistic practices of Hinduism.
- While Hinduism supports the caste system, Jainism and Buddhism reject it, promoting equality among all individuals.
4. Buddhism which emerged in ancient India against the Brahmanic social order, has gained importance in contemporary India. State your views giving examples.
Answer: Buddhism, which emerged as a challenge to the rigid Brahmanic social order, has indeed gained importance in contemporary India. In recent times, Buddhism has attracted those who seek a path of spiritual enlightenment that emphasizes equality, non-violence, and compassion. The teachings of Buddhism, particularly the principles of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, offer a way of life that appeals to those disillusioned with materialism and social inequality. For example, the revival of Buddhism among the Dalit community, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, reflects its continued relevance as a means of social emancipation. Additionally, the popularity of meditation and mindfulness practices, rooted in Buddhist teachings, has grown among people of various backgrounds, further highlighting its significance in modern times.
5. Write the script of a play on the life and times of Gautam Buddha.
Answer:
Title: The Life of Gautam Buddha
Act 1: Birth and Prophecy
Scene 1: The Birth of Siddharth
(A garden in Lumbini. Queen Maya rests under a tree. She gives birth to Siddharth. Light and gentle music fill the scene.)
Narrator: In Lumbini, Queen Maya gave birth to a son, Siddharth. It was foretold that he would either become a great king or a spiritual leader who would bring wisdom to the world.
(Royal astrologers and sages gather around the newborn, predicting his future.)
Astrologer: This child is destined for greatness. He will either rule the world or renounce it to seek truth.
Act 2: The Four Sights
Scene 1: Siddharth’s Encounter with Life’s Realities
(A street outside the palace. Siddharth, now a young man, rides through the town with his charioteer. He sees an old man, a sick man, a dead body, and an ascetic.)
Siddharth: (With concern) Who is that old man? Why is he so weak?
Charioteer: My lord, this is the fate of all as they age. Our bodies weaken, and we lose our strength.
(Siddharth then sees a sick man in pain and a dead body being carried to the cremation ground.)
Siddharth: (Distressed) Is there no escape from this suffering?
(He finally sees an ascetic, calm and peaceful, walking with purpose.)
Siddharth: (Determined) I must find the truth. I need to understand why there is suffering and how it can be overcome.
Act 3: The Great Renunciation
Scene 1: Siddharth Leaves the Palace
(Nighttime in the palace. Siddharth quietly says goodbye to his sleeping wife, Yashodhara, and his son, Rahul.)
Siddharth: (Softly) I must go, not out of lack of love, but to seek a path that ends suffering.
(He cuts his hair, changes into simple robes, and leaves the palace on his horse, Kanthaka, accompanied by his loyal charioteer.)
Act 4: Enlightenment
Scene 1: Siddharth’s Quest for Truth
(Siddharth practices extreme austerities with a group of ascetics but eventually realizes the futility of such severe practices.)
Siddharth: (Weak and emaciated) This path of self-denial is not the way. There must be a middle path between indulgence and denial.
Scene 2: The Bodhi Tree at Gaya
(Siddharth sits under the Bodhi tree, determined not to rise until he has attained enlightenment.)
Siddharth: (With resolve) I will not move until I find the truth.
(He meditates deeply, and after days of contemplation, he reaches enlightenment. The scene is illuminated with a soft light.)
Narrator: Under the Bodhi tree, Siddharth became the Buddha, the Enlightened One. He had discovered the path to end suffering and achieve nirvana.
Act 5: The First Sermon
Scene 1: The Deer Park at Sarnath
(Buddha speaks to his five former companions in the Deer Park at Sarnath.)
Buddha: (Calmly) Friends, I have found the path that leads to the end of suffering. It is the Middle Way, avoiding both extremes of indulgence and self-denial. Follow the Eightfold Path and understand the Four Noble Truths.
(The disciples listen attentively, becoming the first followers of Buddha.)
Act 6: Spreading the Teachings
Scene 1: Buddha’s Teachings Spread
(Buddha travels through the towns and villages of northern India, gathering followers from all walks of life.)
Narrator: For the next forty-five years, Buddha spread his teachings, gathering followers from all classes, and creating a community of monks and nuns who carried his message far and wide.
Act 7: The Final Days
Scene 1: The Last Days at Kushinagar
(The Buddha, now aged, lies on a bed prepared for him under a tree in Kushinagar, surrounded by his disciples.)
Buddha: (Peacefully) All things must pass. Work hard to gain your own salvation.
(The Buddha passes into Mahaparinirvana, and his disciples bow in respect and sorrow.)
Epilogue: The Legacy of Buddha
Scene 1: The Spread of Buddhism
(The narrator steps forward as scenes of stupas, monasteries, and followers from different lands are displayed.)
Narrator: Buddha’s teachings spread across Asia, influencing millions. His message of compassion, non-violence, and wisdom continues to inspire and guide people across the world.
(As the play ends, the stage is softly lit, symbolizing the lasting impact of Buddha’s teachings.)
End of Play.
Extra/additional MCQs
1. What key material did the people of the Later Vedic Age begin to use for making tools and implements?
A. Bronze
B. Stone
C. Iron
D. Copper
Answer: C. Iron
59. What kind of halls were Chaityas?
A. Residential quarters
B. Worship halls
C. Monastic schools
D. Fortified buildingsAnswer: B. Worship halls
Extra/additional questions and answers
1. What enabled Aryan settlements to expand eastward in the sixth century BC?
Answer: Rapid socio-economic and political changes enabled Aryan settlements to expand eastward.
85. Analyse the social and religious impact of Jainism on Indian society.
Answer: Jainism had a profound social and religious impact on Indian society. Socially, Jainism was one of the first religions to challenge the caste system and promote the idea of equality among all individuals. It discarded rituals and animal sacrifices, which were prevalent in other religious practices, and instead emphasised simplicity, austerity, and ethical living. Jainism’s focus on non-violence (ahimsa) had a significant influence on social behaviour, encouraging compassion and respect for all living beings, regardless of their social status or species.
Religiously, Jainism contributed to the diversification of spiritual thought in India. It provided an alternative to the Vedic religion, offering a path to salvation through self-discipline, penance, and the practice of the Triratnas (right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct). Jainism’s rejection of the authority of the Vedas and its emphasis on individual responsibility for one’s actions (karma) resonated with many people, leading to its widespread adoption in various regions of India.
Moreover, Jainism’s pragmatic approach and spirit of accommodation allowed it
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