(SEM VIII) THEORY EXAMINATION 2024-25 HUMAN VALUES IN MADHYASTH DARSHAN

SECTION A – Short Answers (2 Marks Each) – Paragraph Style

a) What is the primary aim of studying Madhyasth Darshan?

The primary aim of studying Madhyasth Darshan is to help human beings gain right understanding about existence, self, and relationships. It enables a person to live in harmony with oneself, society, and nature by developing clarity about values, purpose of life, and correct conduct. The focus is on achieving continuous happiness and prosperity through right understanding rather than temporary pleasure.

b) How does Madhyasth Darshan describe Space (Satta) as ‘no-activity’ (kriyashunya)?

In Madhyasth Darshan, Space or Satta is described as kriyashunya, meaning it has no activity of its own. Space does not perform actions, but it provides the ever-present background in which all activities of nature take place. It allows coexistence of all units without interference and remains unchanged while supporting all existence.

c) Explain the four dimensions used to study any unit in Nature.

Any unit in nature is studied through four dimensions: form, property, natural characteristic, and innateness. Form refers to the physical structure of the unit. Property indicates its measurable qualities. Natural characteristic explains how the unit behaves naturally, while innateness defines its inherent tendency or purpose that remains constant.

d) What are the two fundamental needs of a human being?

According to Madhyasth Darshan, a human being has two fundamental needs: intellectual resolution and physical prosperity. Intellectual resolution relates to clarity in understanding, values, and purpose, while physical prosperity refers to having adequate physical facilities for the body. Both are essential, but intellectual resolution guides proper use of physical resources.

e) Define ‘Sanskar’ and state its sources.

Sanskar refers to mental impressions formed in the self due to repeated thoughts, experiences, and actions. These impressions influence a person’s behaviour and choices. The two primary sources of sanskar are one’s own actions and the influence of family, society, and environment during upbringing.

f) Differentiate between ‘Shreya’ and ‘Preya’.

Shreya refers to what is truly beneficial and leads to long-term happiness and harmony, while Preya refers to what appears pleasurable in the moment but may not be beneficial in the long run. Madhyasth Darshan emphasizes choosing Shreya over Preya for a meaningful and fulfilling life.

g) Explain Intellectual Laws with examples.

Intellectual laws such as non-accumulation and affection guide right thinking and behaviour. Non-accumulation teaches limited and need-based use of resources, while affection promotes caring relationships without selfish motives. These laws help maintain harmony within the individual and society.

h) Explain ‘Swa-naari/Swa-purush’ as a social law.

Swa-naari or Swa-purush means recognizing only one’s spouse as a partner in a conjugal relationship. It promotes trust, dignity, and stability in family and society. This social law prevents exploitation and strengthens moral values and mutual respect.

i) Explain ‘Tadatmyata’ in the context of an awakened self.

Tadatmyata refers to perfect harmony and orderliness in the awakened self. It means alignment between understanding, thought, behaviour, and work. An awakened person naturally lives in balance with self, society, and nature without inner conflict.

j) What is the primary reason for environmental problems?

According to Madhyasth Darshan, the main cause of environmental problems such as pollution and resource depletion is the lack of right understanding in human beings. Over-consumption, accumulation, and misuse of natural resources arise from incorrect goals and values rather than genuine needs.

SECTION B – Descriptive Answers (10 Marks Each) – Paragraph Style

a) Explain ‘Existence as Co-existence’.

Madhyasth Darshan explains existence as coexistence, where all units of nature exist together in space. Nature is described as being submerged in space, meaning it exists and functions within space. This submergence results in three important implications: nature is energized, self-organized, and involved in fulfilling relationships. Energy flows naturally, systems organize themselves without external control, and all units participate in mutual fulfilment, maintaining balance and harmony in existence.

b) Explain the human being as coexistence of Self and Body.

A human being is understood as the coexistence of the Self (Jeevan) and the Body. The Self is conscious and responsible for understanding, thinking, deciding, and desiring. The body is physical and performs activities like digestion, movement, and sensation. While the body needs physical nourishment, the self requires right understanding and value-based living. Harmony is achieved when the self properly guides the body.

c) Explain the Law of Action and Fruition (Karma Fal Niyam).

The Law of Action and Fruition states that every action produces a result or consequence. A deluded human being is free in performing actions but becomes bound by the results of those actions. When actions are based on wrong understanding, the results bring dissatisfaction and suffering. Right understanding leads to actions that result in harmony and happiness.

d) Explain the seven key human relationships and expected values.

Human relationships such as parent-child, teacher-student, husband-wife, sibling, friend, and society are based on values like trust, respect, affection, care, and guidance. These values ensure mutual happiness and social harmony. When relationships are lived with correct understanding, they become a source of joy rather than conflict.

e) How does Madhyasth Darshan address societal issues?

Madhyasth Darshan addresses issues like inequality and exploitation by emphasizing right understanding and value-based living. It promotes justice, dignity, and mutual fulfilment rather than competition. When individuals understand their real needs and responsibilities, social problems naturally reduce without force or punishment.

SECTION C – Long Answers (10 Marks Each) – Paragraph Style

a) “Madhyasth Darshan is Existence-Based Human-Centric Contemplation.” Explain.

This statement highlights that Madhyasth Darshan is rooted in the reality of existence while focusing on human understanding. It studies existence as it is and helps humans understand their role within it. Human understanding is central because humans have the ability to consciously live in harmony. When understanding is right, behaviour, work, and social systems automatically align with natural order.

b) Explain the four dimensions of human living.

Human living operates through four dimensions: realization, thought, behaviour, and work. Realization refers to understanding reality and values. Thought involves planning and imagining based on realization. Behaviour reflects interactions with others, and work relates to physical activities and occupation. Balance among these dimensions leads to a holistic and meaningful life.