UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 33
With reference to the history of ancient India, which of the following was/were common to both Buddhism and Jainism?
- Avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment
- Indifference to the authority of the Vedas
- Denial of efficacy of rituals
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Correct Option: B
Explanation: Buddhism and Jainism both questioned Vedic authority and the salvific value of ritual, though their approaches to austerity differed.
Statement/Item-wise Analysis:
1: Incorrect - Buddha advocated a Middle Way; Jainism has a stronger tradition of severe ascetic discipline.
2: Correct - Both traditions rejected unquestioned Vedic religious authority.
3: Correct - Both emphasised ethical conduct/discipline over Vedic ritual sacrifice.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - includes incorrect item 1; omits correct items 2, 3.
B: Correct - includes exactly the valid statements/items and excludes the invalid ones.
C: Incorrect - includes incorrect item 1; omits correct item 2.
D: Incorrect - includes incorrect item 1.