The correct option is A-2, B-4, C-3, D-1
Explanation
The concept of Ashramas refers to the four distinct stages of life in the Later Vedic social order. This system was developed to regulate the life of an individual (specifically the dvija or twice-born castes) to ensure a balance between spiritual and material duties. The earliest reference to all four Ashramas is found in the Jabala Upanishad.
Analysis of the Matches:
- A. Brahmacharya (Student Life): Matches with 2. This is the first stage of life, characterized by celibacy, discipline, and education. The individual lives with the teacher (Guru) to study the Vedas and learn self-restraint.
- B. Grihastha (Householder): Matches with 4. This is the second stage, entered after completing education. It involves marriage, raising a family, and fulfilling social and economic duties. It is considered vital for supporting the other three stages.
- C. Vanaprastha (Forest Dweller): Matches with 3. This is the third stage, marking a gradual withdrawal from worldly affairs. The individual retires to the forest to live a simple life, meditate, and prepare for complete renunciation.
- D. Samnyasa (Renunciation): Matches with 1. This is the final stage of life, involving total renunciation of all material ties, social relations, and property. The individual becomes a wandering ascetic focused solely on attaining Moksha (liberation).
Key Takeaway:
The Ashrama system institutionalized the life cycle into four stages-Brahmacharya (Education), Grihastha (Family), Vanaprastha (Retirement), and Samnyasa (Renunciation)-to balance the pursuit of Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha.