SECTION A – Short Answers (2 Marks Each) – Paragraph Style
a) Mention the names of the substances that constitute Loka.
In Jain philosophy, Loka refers to the universe where all existence takes place. It is constituted by six fundamental substances known as Dravya. These include Jiva (soul), Pudgala (matter), Dharma (principle of motion), Adharma (principle of rest), Akasha (space), and Kala (time). Together, these substances explain the structure and functioning of the universe.
b) Discuss the fundamental principles of Buddhist philosophy.
The fundamental principles of Buddhist philosophy focus on understanding suffering and attaining liberation. Buddhism emphasizes impermanence (Anitya), non-self (Anatta), and suffering (Dukkha). It teaches that attachment and ignorance are the root causes of suffering and that liberation is possible through right understanding, ethical conduct, and mental discipline.
c) Summarize the main concepts of Jain philosophy.
Jain philosophy is based on the principles of non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), celibacy (Brahmacharya), and non-possession (Aparigraha). It emphasizes the purity of the soul and teaches that liberation is achieved by removing karmic bondage through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.
d) Enumerate the Four Noble Truths as taught in Buddhism.
The Four Noble Truths form the foundation of Buddhist teachings. They state that suffering exists in life, suffering has a cause rooted in desire and attachment, suffering can be ended, and the path to end suffering is the Noble Eightfold Path. These truths guide individuals toward liberation.
e) List the types of Karma according to both Buddhist and Jain philosophies.
In Buddhism, karma refers to intentional actions of body, speech, and mind that produce results. In Jainism, karma is classified into eight major types, including knowledge-obscuring, perception-obscuring, feeling-producing, deluding, lifespan-determining, body-determining, status-determining, and obstructive karma.
f) Name the six Dravya according to the doctrine of Jainism.
According to Jain doctrine, the six Dravya are Jiva, Pudgala, Dharma, Adharma, Akasha, and Kala. These substances are eternal and together explain the existence and functioning of the universe.
g) Mention two challenges encountered while cultivating Samatva.
Cultivating Samatva, or equanimity, is challenging due to attachment to pleasure and aversion to pain. Emotional disturbances such as anger, greed, and ego also make it difficult to maintain balance and inner
peace.
h) Give a brief explanation of the principle of Karma-Phala.
The principle of Karma-Phala states that every action has a corresponding result. Good actions lead to positive outcomes, while harmful actions result in suffering. Both Buddhism and Jainism emphasize personal responsibility for one’s actions and their consequences.
i) Analyze the similarities between the goals of human life in Jain and Buddhist traditions.
Both Jain and Buddhist traditions aim at liberation from suffering and the cycle of birth and death. They emphasize self-discipline, ethical living, and spiritual awakening as means to achieve freedom, peace, and enlightenment.
j) List any two components of the life program for individuals as per Jain teachings.
Jain teachings suggest a life program based on ethical vows such as Anuvrat for householders and Mahavrat for ascetics. These guide individuals toward moral discipline, self-control, and spiritual progress.
SECTION B – Descriptive Answers (10 Marks Each) – Paragraph Style
a) Analyze the symbolism of the Bhavachakra in Buddhism.
The Bhavachakra, or Wheel of Life, symbolically represents the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth known as Samsara. It depicts how ignorance, desire, and aversion bind beings to continuous suffering. The wheel illustrates various realms of existence and emphasizes that liberation is possible through awareness and right practice.
b) Provide a detailed explanation of the six real substances and their characteristics.
The six real substances in Jain philosophy include Jiva, which is conscious and capable of liberation, and Pudgala, which forms matter. Dharma enables motion, Adharma enables rest, Akasha provides space, and Kala represents time. Each substance has distinct characteristics but together maintains universal harmony.
c) Explain the purpose of human life according to Buddhism.
According to Buddhism, the purpose of human life is to attain Nirvana by overcoming suffering. This is achieved through understanding the nature of existence, following ethical conduct, practicing meditation, and developing wisdom to eliminate ignorance and desire.
d) Explain the life program suggested by Jain philosophy.
Jain philosophy prescribes a life program based on Mahavrat for monks and Anuvrat for householders, along with the practice of Ten Lakshana Dharma. These principles guide individuals toward self-discipline, non-violence, and spiritual purification, ultimately leading to Moksha.
e) Describe the nine fundamental Padarthas as per Jain philosophy.
The nine Padarthas include Jiva, Ajiva, Asrava, Bandha, Samvara, Nirjara, Moksha, Punya, and Papa. These concepts explain the bondage of the soul, accumulation of karma, and the process of liberation.
SECTION C – Long Answer (10 Marks) – Paragraph Style
a) Describe the characteristics and classifications of Karma in Jain philosophy.
In Jain philosophy, karma is a subtle form of matter that binds to the soul due to actions driven by passions. Karma is classified into eight types, which affect knowledge, perception, lifespan, and experience. Liberation is attained by eliminating these karmic bonds through discipline and self-control.
OR
b) Compare and contrast the core teachings of Buddhist and Jain philosophies.
Both Buddhism and Jainism emphasize non-violence, ethical living, and liberation from suffering. However, Buddhism rejects the permanent soul concept, while Jainism strongly affirms it. Despite differences, both traditions promote compassion, self-discipline, and spiritual awakening.
