With reference to the Jaina monastic vows, consider the following statements: 1. Jaina monks and nuns took five vows, including observing celibacy. 2. The vow to abstain from possessing property was optional for nuns. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct option is 1 only Explanation Jainism prescribes a strict code of conduct for its ascetics (monks and nuns). These rules are encapsulated in the five great vows known as Mahavratas. While lay followers observe milder versions called Anuvratas, ascetics must adhere to the vows rigorously. Statement-wise Analysis - Statement 1 is Correct: Jaina monks and nuns are required to take five vows: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Aparigraha (non-possession), and Brahmacharya (celibacy). The first four were taught by Parshvanatha, while the fifth vow of celibacy was added by Lord Mahavira. - Statement 2 is Incorrect: The vow of Aparigraha (non-possession) is mandatory for all members of the monastic order, including nuns. Ascetics are required to completely abandon all worldly possessions and attachments. There is no exemption or optionality regarding property ownership for nuns. Key Takeaway The five Mahavratas (Non-violence, Truth, Non-stealing, Non-possession, and Celibacy) are binding on all Jaina ascetics without exception.

With reference to the Jaina monastic vows,… - NCERT Class 12 History MCQ

NCERT Class 12 History — Chapter 4: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings - Cultural Developments (c. 600 BCE - 600 CE)

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With reference to the Jaina monastic vows, consider the following statements:

Jaina monks and nuns took five vows, including observing celibacy.
The vow to abstain from possessing property was optional for nuns.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

NCERT textbook question

From NCERT Themes in Indian History - I · Page 88

Options

A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is

1 only

Explanation

Jainism prescribes a strict code of conduct for its ascetics (monks and nuns). These rules are encapsulated in the five great vows known as Mahavratas. While lay followers observe milder versions called Anuvratas, ascetics must adhere to the vows rigorously.

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Correct: Jaina monks and nuns are required to take five vows: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Aparigraha (non-possession), and Brahmacharya (celibacy). The first four were taught by Parshvanatha, while the fifth vow of celibacy was added by Lord Mahavira.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: The vow of Aparigraha (non-possession) is mandatory for all members of the monastic order, including nuns. Ascetics are required to completely abandon all worldly possessions and attachments. There is no exemption or optionality regarding property ownership for nuns.

Key Takeaway

The five Mahavratas (Non-violence, Truth, Non-stealing, Non-possession, and Celibacy) are binding on all Jaina ascetics without exception.

Your note

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