Souls are property of rocks, running water and natural objects — which religious sect of ancient India
Question
"Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of rocks, running water and many other natural objects not looked on as living by other religious sects." The above statement reflects one of the core beliefs of which one of the following religious sects of ancient India?
Options
Buddhism
Jainism
Shaivism
Vaishnavism
Explanation
The doctrine that every element of the physical universe, including inanimate objects like rocks, water, and air, possesses a jiva (soul) is uniquely characteristic of Jainism. This profound animistic belief forms the philosophical bedrock for their extreme adherence to Ahimsa (non-violence) toward all existence.
Answer: (b).
Question details
Year
2023
Paper
GS Paper 1
Question
Q47
Subject
History
Sub-topic
Ancient: Religion & Philosophy
Type
Factual single
Difficulty
Medium
Nature
Static
Source hint
NCERT History Cl.12 Ch.4
Same sub-topic — other years
Ancient: Religion & Philosophy has appeared in multiple papers:
See all questions on Ancient: Religion & Philosophy
Browse every tagged question across all years