2013 GS Paper I, all questions
UPSC Prelims 2013 · GS Paper I
Question 37: History and Culture
Which one of the following describes best the concept of Nirvana in Buddhism?
aThe extinction of the flame of desire
bThe complete annihilation of self
cA state of bliss and rest
dA mental stage beyond all comprehension
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).
Nirvana literally means 'blowing out': the extinguishing of the flame of craving and desire that binds beings to the cycle of rebirth. That is the closest description. The Buddha taught that there is no permanent self, so 'annihilation of the self' misdescribes it, and 'bliss and rest' or 'beyond comprehension' speak of its effects or the difficulty of describing it, not its core meaning.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Correct. Nirvana is the extinction of the flame of desire.
- (b) Wrong. There is no permanent self to annihilate in Buddhist teaching.
- (c) Wrong. Bliss describes its effect, not its meaning.
- (d) Wrong. It is not defined as beyond comprehension.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2013, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.