UPSC Prelims 2013 · GS Paper I
Question 47: History and Culture
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.
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (d).
Jainism holds that karma, a fine kind of matter, sticks to the soul and keeps it in bondage, so karma is the bane of the soul and must be ended for liberation. The surest way to wear out karma is austerity and penance (tapas), alongside right faith, knowledge and conduct. Jainism also holds that every object, even the smallest particle, has a soul, which is why its ahimsa is so strict. All three statements apply.
- 1. Penance (tapas) is the way to wear out karma.
- 2. Jain animism: every object, even the smallest particle, has a soul.
- 3. Karma binds the soul and must be ended for liberation.
How you could have got this
- If you were sure statement 1 is correct, (b) goes: it leaves 1 out.
What you needed to know: Penance (tapas) is the way to wear out karma.
- Then, if you were sure statement 2 is correct, (a) and (c) go: each of them leaves 2 out.
What you needed to know: Jain animism: every object, even the smallest particle, has a soul.
Only (d) is left. You didn’t need statement 3.
Which options go is worked out from UPSC’s key and the options, not by a model.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Wrong. Statements 2 and 3 also apply.
- (b) Wrong. Statement 1 also applies.
- (c) Wrong. Statement 2 also applies.
- (d) Correct. All three are Jain doctrine.
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.