With reference to the Jatakas, consider the following statements: 1. They were stories probably composed by ordinary people. 2. They were written down and preserved by Buddhist monks. 3. They provide evidence about the lives of people in early cities and villages. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

NCERT Class 6 History — Chapter 8: Vital villages, thriving towns

mcqeasy

With reference to the Jatakas, consider the following statements:

They were stories probably composed by ordinary people.
They were written down and preserved by Buddhist monks.
They provide evidence about the lives of people in early cities and villages.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 and 2 only
B2 and 3 only
C1 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is (d).

Explanation

The Jatakas are a voluminous body of literature concerning the previous births of Gautama Buddha in both human and animal forms. They are a crucial part of the Buddhist Pali Canon and serve as a significant source for reconstructing the social history of ancient India.

Statement 1 is Correct: Historical analysis, indicates that the Jatakas were originally stories and folk tales probably composed and circulated orally by ordinary people. They were later adapted to convey Buddhist moral values.

Statement 2 is Correct: These oral traditions were eventually compiled, written down, and preserved by Buddhist monks. They were incorporated into the Khuddaka Nikaya of the Sutta Pitaka.

Statement 3 is Correct: Unlike court chronicles that focus on kings and elites, Jatakas provide valuable evidence regarding the everyday lives, sentiments, and material conditions of people living in early villages and cities.

Key Takeaway: Jatakas originated as folklore among common people, were canonized by Buddhist monks, and serve as a vital historical source for understanding the socio-economic life of ancient India.

Your note

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The correct option is (d).

Explanation

Statement 2 is Correct: These oral traditions were eventually compiled, written down, and preserved by Buddhist monks. They were incorporated into the Khuddaka Nikaya of the Sutta Pitaka.