Practice Jainism MCQ Quiz for UPSC Prelims 2026 with 80+ important questions, answers, and explanations. Attempt mock test, boost revision, and improve your score with exam-oriented questions.

This quiz contains 89 carefully selected multiple-choice questions (MCQ) with detailed explanations for each answer. Questions cover important topics from History.

Practice this online test to check your preparation, improve conceptual clarity, and track your score with explanations. All questions are accompanied by correct answers and explanatory notes for effective self-study and revision.

Use the interactive quiz interface above to solve one question at a time with timer, next/previous navigation and instant scoring. A complete list of all questions and answers is also provided below for quick reference and thorough revision.

Jainism MCQ Quiz for UPSC Prelims 2026 | 80+ Questions with Answers & Explanation

लेखक: Free Online Mock Tests for Competitive Exams प्रकाशित: 14 अप्रैल 2026
📝 Description

Practice Jainism MCQ Quiz for UPSC Prelims 2026 with 80+ important questions, answers, and explanations. Attempt mock test, boost revision, and improve your score with exam-oriented questions.

📊
Difficulty
Hard
❓
Num Questions
89
❓
Points Per Question
1
⏱️
Time Limit
80 minutes

All MCQ Questions with Answers and Explanations

Question 1: Assertion (A): Anekantavada accepts the multidimensional nature of truth. Reason (R): Syadvada is the method of expressing that truth through relative statements.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A ✓
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: A — Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
Anekantavada is the principle, and Syadvada is the method of expressing it.

Question 2: Consider the following statements: (1) Time is cyclical in Jainism. (2) There is no beginning of the universe. Choose the correct option:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both ✓
  • D. None
Correct Answer: C — Both
Explanation:
In Jain philosophy, time is beginningless and cyclical.

Question 3: Consider the following statements: (1) Jainism considers non-violence as supreme. (2) It supports animal sacrifice. Choose the correct option:

  • A. Only 1 ✓
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both
  • D. None
Correct Answer: A — Only 1
Explanation:
Jainism upholds non-violence and opposes animal sacrifice.

Question 4: Consider the following statements: (1) Jainism rejects the authority of the Vedas. (2) It accepts the doctrine of karma. (3) It accepts God as the creator. Choose the correct option:

  • A. Only 1 and 2 ✓
  • B. Only 2 and 3
  • C. Only 1 and 3
  • D. 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: A — Only 1 and 2
Explanation:
Jainism rejects the Vedas and accepts karma but does not accept a creator God.

Question 5: Consider the following statements regarding Jain art: (1) Symbolism is important in Jain art. (2) Tirthankaras are generally depicted in a simple, meditative form. Choose the correct option:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2 ✓
  • D. None
Correct Answer: C — Both 1 and 2
Explanation:
Jain art emphasizes symbolism and depicts Tirthankaras in meditative simplicity.

Question 6: Consider the following statements: (1) In Jainism, karma is material in nature. (2) In Buddhism, karma is only a mental action. Choose the correct option:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both ✓
  • D. None
Correct Answer: C — Both
Explanation:
Jainism considers karma as material, while Buddhism treats it as a mental action.

Question 7: Which of the following correctly represents Jain Tattvas?

  • A. Jiva, Ajiva, Asrava, Bandha, Samvara, Nirjara, Moksha ✓
  • B. Jiva, Karma, Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha
  • C. Soul, Body, Mind, Knowledge
  • D. Truth, Non-violence, Austerity
Correct Answer: A — Jiva, Ajiva, Asrava, Bandha, Samvara, Nirjara, Moksha
Explanation:
Jain philosophy defines seven Tattvas including Moksha as the final state.

Question 8: Which of the following is correct regarding Anekantavada?

  • A. It accepts only spiritual truth
  • B. It considers only one viewpoint as correct
  • C. It accepts the relative validity of multiple viewpoints ✓
  • D. It supports only materialism
Correct Answer: C — It accepts the relative validity of multiple viewpoints
Explanation:
Anekantavada accepts multiple viewpoints as partially true.

Question 9: Consider the following statements: (1) Syadvada is based on sevenfold predication. (2) It rejects absolute truth. (3) It is only a moral doctrine. Choose the correct option:

  • A. Only 1 and 2 ✓
  • B. Only 2 and 3
  • C. Only 1 and 3
  • D. 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: A — Only 1 and 2
Explanation:
Syadvada is based on the sevenfold theory and rejects absolutism, but it is not merely a moral doctrine.

Question 10: Consider the following statements: (1) Jainism spread mainly along trade routes. (2) It was an urban religion. Choose the correct option:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both ✓
  • D. None
Correct Answer: C — Both
Explanation:
Both statements are correct as it spread along trade routes and in urban centers.

Question 11: What was a major reason for the spread of Jainism?

  • A. Severe austerity
  • B. Simple ethical principles ✓
  • C. War policy
  • D. Forced conversion
Correct Answer: B — Simple ethical principles
Explanation:
Jainism spread widely due to its simple and practical ethical principles.

Question 12: Consider the following statements: (1) Jainism spread in Karnataka. (2) Shravanabelagola was a Jain center. Choose the correct option:

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both ✓
  • D. None
Correct Answer: C — Both
Explanation:
Both statements are correct; Shravanabelagola was an important center.

Question 13: Consider the following statements: (1) Jainism spread in Western India as well. (2) Gujarat became a major center of Jainism. Which of the above are correct?

  • A. Only 1
  • B. Only 2
  • C. Both 1 and 2 ✓
  • D. None
Correct Answer: C — Both 1 and 2
Explanation:
Both statements are correct, as Gujarat became a major center.

Question 14: Consider the following statements regarding the spread of Jainism: (1) It spread widely in South India. (2) Chandragupta Maurya adopted Jainism. (3) Jainism spread mainly among traders. Choose the correct option:

  • A. Only 1 and 2
  • B. Only 2 and 3
  • C. Only 1 and 3
  • D. 1, 2 and 3 ✓
Correct Answer: D — 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
All three statements are historically correct.

Question 15: Consider the following statements: (1) Monks of the Digambara sect do not wear clothes. (2) Monks of the Shvetambara sect wear white clothes. (3) In the Digambara sect, women cannot attain moksha. Which of the above statements are correct?

  • A. Only 1 and 2
  • B. Only 2 and 3
  • C. Only 1 and 3
  • D. 1, 2 and 3 ✓
Correct Answer: D — 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
All three statements are correct as Digambaras follow nudity, Shvetambaras wear white clothes, and there is a doctrinal difference regarding women’s liberation.

Question 16: What does the Jain symbol primarily represent?

  • A. War
  • B. Peace only
  • C. Non-violence (Ahimsa) and path to liberation ✓
  • D. Political power
Correct Answer: C — Non-violence (Ahimsa) and path to liberation
Explanation:
The Jain symbol signifies Ahimsa and the path to Moksha.

Question 17: What is “Kevala Jnana” in Jainism?

  • A. Ordinary knowledge
  • B. Absolute knowledge ✓
  • C. Religious knowledge
  • D. Practical knowledge
Correct Answer: B — Absolute knowledge
Explanation:
Kevala Jnana is absolute knowledge, while the others are limited forms of knowledge.

Question 18: Which vow in Jainism is meant for householders?

  • A. Mahavrata
  • B. Anuvrata ✓
  • C. Austerity
  • D. Renunciation
Correct Answer: B — Anuvrata
Explanation:
Anuvratas are meant for householders, while Mahavratas are for monks.

Question 19: According to Jainism, what is the nature of the universe?

  • A. Permanent and unchanging
  • B. Impermanent
  • C. Eternal but subject to change ✓
  • D. Created by God
Correct Answer: C — Eternal but subject to change
Explanation:
The universe is eternal but undergoes continuous change.

Question 20: How is Moksha attained in Jainism?

  • A. Through yajna
  • B. Through knowledge
  • C. Through Triratna ✓
  • D. Through charity
Correct Answer: C — Through Triratna
Explanation:
Moksha is attained through the practice of the Triratna, while the other means are not sufficient.

Question 21: What is the meaning of “Aparigraha” in Jainism?

  • A. Non-possession ✓
  • B. Non-violence
  • C. Speaking the truth
  • D. Practicing austerity
Correct Answer: A — Non-possession
Explanation:
Aparigraha means non-possession, while the others are different vows.

Question 22: According to Jainism, what is karma?

  • A. Mental activity
  • B. Material particles ✓
  • C. Religious ritual
  • D. Social work
Correct Answer: B — Material particles
Explanation:
In Jain philosophy, karma is considered as material particles, while the others are general meanings.

Question 23: What is the meaning of Brahmacharya in Jainism?

  • A. Speaking the truth
  • B. Self-restraint (control over senses) ✓
  • C. Remaining unmarried
  • D. Practicing austerity
Correct Answer: B — Self-restraint (control over senses)
Explanation:
Brahmacharya means control over senses and sexual restraint.

Question 24: What is the purpose of austerity in Jainism?

  • A. To gain power
  • B. Destruction of karma ✓
  • C. Social reform
  • D. Acquisition of knowledge
Correct Answer: B — Destruction of karma
Explanation:
Austerity leads to the destruction of karma, while the other purposes are secondary.

Question 25: According to Jainism, what is the nature of the soul?

  • A. Mortal
  • B. Immortal ✓
  • C. Non-living
  • D. Material
Correct Answer: B — Immortal
Explanation:
In Jain philosophy, the soul is considered immortal, while the other options are incorrect.

Question 26: Syadvada is related to which of the following?

  • A. Ethics
  • B. Knowledge
  • C. Relative truth ✓
  • D. Austerity
Correct Answer: C — Relative truth
Explanation:
Syadvada represents the concept of relative truth; the other options are general concepts.

Question 27: What does the main principle of Jainism, “Anekantavada,” signify?

  • A. One truth
  • B. Multiple perspectives ✓
  • C. Only spiritual knowledge
  • D. Theory of karma
Correct Answer: B — Multiple perspectives
Explanation:
According to Anekantavada, truth has multiple aspects; the other options are not related to it.

Question 28: Which of the following is not included in the Triratna (Three Jewels) of Jainism?

  • A. Right Faith (Samyak Darshan)
  • B. Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana)
  • C. Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra)
  • D. Right Austerity (Samyak Tapa) ✓
Correct Answer: D — Right Austerity (Samyak Tapa)
Explanation:
The Triratna includes Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct; austerity is not included in it.

Question 29: Assertion (A): In Jainism, the world is considered full of suffering. Reason (R): The cycle of birth and death continues due to karma.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct ✓
Correct Answer: D — A is incorrect but R is correct
Explanation:
Jainism emphasizes karmic bondage rather than suffering as the sole nature of the world.

Question 30: Assertion (A): In Jainism, the role of gods is secondary. Reason (R): Liberation is attained through self-effort.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A ✓
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: A — Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
Since liberation depends on self-effort, the role of gods is secondary.

Question 31: Assertion (A): In Jainism, violence is not considered only physical. Reason (R): Mental and verbal violence are also recognized.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A ✓
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: A — Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
Jainism recognizes physical, mental, and verbal forms of violence.

Question 32: Assertion (A): There are separate rules for householders in Jainism. Reason (R): Mahavratas are compulsory for all.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect ✓
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: C — A is correct but R is incorrect
Explanation:
Householders follow Anuvratas, while Mahavratas are not mandatory for all.

Question 33: Assertion (A): Austerity holds great importance in Jainism. Reason (R): Liberation from karmic bondage is possible only through knowledge.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect ✓
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: C — A is correct but R is incorrect
Explanation:
Austerity is important, but liberation is achieved through the Triratna, not knowledge alone.

Question 34: Assertion (A): Anekantavada promotes tolerance. Reason (R): It considers only one truth as absolute.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect ✓
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: C — A is correct but R is incorrect
Explanation:
Anekantavada promotes tolerance but does not consider a single truth as absolute.

Question 35: Assertion (A): Jain architecture shows extensive ornamentation. Reason (R): This is contrary to the principle of religious simplicity.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A ✓
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: B — Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
Jain architecture is ornate, but it is not considered against its religious principles.

Question 36: Assertion (A): Syadvada represents the relative nature of knowledge. Reason (R): It is based on seven types of viewpoints (Naya).

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A ✓
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: A — Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
Syadvada is based on the sevenfold predication and reflects relative knowledge.

Question 37: Assertion (A): Jain philosophy accepts dualism between Jiva and Ajiva. Reason (R): Buddhism accepts the existence of the soul.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect ✓
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: C — A is correct but R is incorrect
Explanation:
Jainism accepts dualism, but Buddhism follows the doctrine of non-self.

Question 38: Assertion (A): The spread of Jainism remained limited in North India. Reason (R): Buddhism was more popular.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A ✓
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: B — Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
Buddhism’s popularity alone does not fully explain the spread of Jainism in North India.________________________________________

Question 39: Assertion (A): Jainism spread less in rural areas. Reason (R): Its teachings were opposed to agriculture.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A ✓
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: A — Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
Due to the association of agriculture with violence, Jainism spread less in rural areas.

Question 40: Assertion (A): According to the Digambara sect, women cannot attain moksha. Reason (R): Nudity is considered essential for attaining moksha.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A ✓
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: A — Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
In Digambara belief, since nudity is considered essential, women’s liberation is not accepted.

Question 41: Assertion (A): Jainism spread mainly in urban areas. Reason (R): Jainism was patronized by traders.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A ✓
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: A — Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
Due to patronage by traders, Jainism spread in urban areas.

Question 42: Assertion (A): The Shvetambara sect considers the Jain Agamas to be authentic. Reason (R): The Digambara sect believes that the original Agamas have been lost.

  • A. Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
  • B. Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A ✓
  • C. A is correct but R is incorrect
  • D. A is incorrect but R is correct
Correct Answer: B — Both A and R are correct but R is not the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
Both statements are correct, but R is not the direct explanation of A.

Question 43: What is the state of “Moksha” in Jainism?

  • A. Rebirth
  • B. Mixed happiness and sorrow
  • C. Karmic bondage
  • D. Complete liberation ✓
Correct Answer: D — Complete liberation
Explanation:
Moksha is the state of complete freedom from karma.

Question 44: What is the cause of “Karma Bandhan” in Jainism?

  • A. Knowledge
  • B. Penance
  • C. Attachment ✓
  • D. Meditation
Correct Answer: C — Attachment
Explanation:
Attachment leads to karmic bondage.

Question 45: What is the meaning of “Tirtha” in Jainism?

  • A. Temple
  • B. River
  • C. Spiritual path ✓
  • D. Tirthankara
Correct Answer: C — Spiritual path
Explanation:
Tirtha means the path to liberation.

Question 46: What is the purpose of fasting in Jainism?

  • A. To torture the body
  • B. Destruction of karma ✓
  • C. Attainment of knowledge
  • D. Social reform
Correct Answer: B — Destruction of karma
Explanation:
Fasting helps in the destruction of karma.

Question 47: What is the meaning of “Samyak Darshan” in Jainism?

  • A. Right knowledge
  • B. Right conduct
  • C. Right faith ✓
  • D. Penance
Correct Answer: C — Right faith
Explanation:
Samyak Darshan means right faith.

Question 48: What is the meaning of “Loka” in Jainism?

  • A. Society
  • B. Universe ✓
  • C. Soul
  • D. Religion
Correct Answer: B — Universe
Explanation:
Loka refers to the entire universe.

Question 49: What is “Nirjara” in Jainism?

  • A. Destruction of karma ✓
  • B. Attainment of knowledge
  • C. Meditation
  • D. Vow
Correct Answer: A — Destruction of karma
Explanation:
Nirjara means the destruction of accumulated karma.

Question 50: What is the meaning of “Samvara” in Jainism?

  • A. Destruction of karma
  • B. Stoppage of the influx of karma ✓
  • C. Liberation
  • D. Penance
Correct Answer: B — Stoppage of the influx of karma
Explanation:
Samvara means preventing the inflow of karma.

Question 51: What is “Sallekhana” in Jainism?

  • A. Penance
  • B. Attainment of knowledge
  • C. Gradual death through fasting ✓
  • D. Meditation
Correct Answer: C — Gradual death through fasting
Explanation:
Sallekhana involves renouncing the body through fasting.

Question 52: What is the meaning of “Adharmastikaya” in Jain philosophy?

  • A. Motion
  • B. Medium of rest ✓
  • C. Knowledge
  • D. Soul
Correct Answer: B — Medium of rest
Explanation:
Adharmastikaya is the medium of rest.

Question 53: What is a similarity between Jainism and Buddhism?

  • A. Acceptance of the Vedas
  • B. Emphasis on non-violence ✓
  • C. Doctrine of soul
  • D. Emphasis on yajna
Correct Answer: B — Emphasis on non-violence
Explanation:
Both emphasize non-violence, while the others differ.

Question 54: What is “Dharmastikaya” in Jainism?

  • A. Soul
  • B. Medium of motion ✓
  • C. Rest
  • D. Knowledge
Correct Answer: B — Medium of motion
Explanation:
Dharmastikaya is the medium of motion.

Question 55: What is the meaning of “Pudgala” in Jain philosophy?

  • A. Soul
  • B. Karma
  • C. Matter ✓
  • D. Knowledge
Correct Answer: C — Matter
Explanation:
Pudgala refers to material substance.

Question 56: How are “Tirthankara images” generally depicted in Jain art?

  • A. Dynamic posture
  • B. Meditative posture ✓
  • C. War posture
  • D. Dancing posture
Correct Answer: B — Meditative posture
Explanation:
Jain images are depicted in a meditative posture.

Question 57: What is the main difference between Jainism and Buddhism?

  • A. Both accept the soul
  • B. Jainism accepts the soul, Buddhism does not ✓
  • C. Buddhism accepts the soul, Jainism does not
  • D. Both reject the soul
Correct Answer: B — Jainism accepts the soul, Buddhism does not
Explanation:
Jainism accepts the soul, whereas Buddhism follows the doctrine of non-self.

Question 58: Which was the main center of Jainism in Western India?

  • A. Magadha
  • B. Kashi
  • C. Gujarat ✓
  • D. Pataliputra
Correct Answer: C — Gujarat
Explanation:
Gujarat was a major center of Jainism in Western India.

Question 59: What was the main objective of Jain councils?

  • A. Religious propagation
  • B. Compilation of scriptures ✓
  • C. War policy
  • D. Economic reforms
Correct Answer: B — Compilation of scriptures
Explanation:
The councils aimed at compiling and preserving scriptures.

Question 60: Who was responsible for the spread of Jainism in South India?

  • A. Ashoka
  • B. Bhadrabahu ✓
  • C. Kanishka
  • D. Harsha
Correct Answer: B — Bhadrabahu
Explanation:
Jainism spread to South India under the leadership of Bhadrabahu.

Question 61: What was one reason for the division in Jainism?

  • A. Language
  • B. Idol worship
  • C. Wearing clothes ✓
  • D. Yajna
Correct Answer: C — Wearing clothes
Explanation:
The division arose over the issue of wearing clothes.

Question 62: Which of the following is a belief of the Shvetambara sect of Jainism?

  • A. Practice of nude asceticism
  • B. Women can attain liberation (moksha) ✓
  • C. Original Agamas are completely lost
  • D. Exclusive emphasis on extreme austerity
Correct Answer: B — Women can attain liberation (moksha)
Explanation:
The Shvetambara sect believes that women can attain moksha. They also accept the preservation of Agamas and permit the wearing of white clothes, whereas Digambaras emphasize stricter ascetic practices including nudity.

Question 63: In which language were the Jain Agamas written?

  • A. Sanskrit
  • B. Pali
  • C. Prakrit ✓
  • D. Tamil
Correct Answer: C — Prakrit
Explanation:
Jain Agamas were composed in Prakrit.

Question 64: When is the division of Jainism considered to have occurred?

  • A. During Mahavira’s lifetime
  • B. After Mahavira ✓
  • C. During the Mauryan period
  • D. During the Gupta period
Correct Answer: B — After Mahavira
Explanation:
The division gradually developed after Mahavira.

Question 65: Which was the main center of Jainism?

  • A. Kashi
  • B. Magadha ✓
  • C. Ayodhya
  • D. Mathura
Correct Answer: B — Magadha
Explanation:
Magadha was the main center of Jainism.

Question 66: Why was the mercantile class important in Jainism?

  • A. Religious reasons
  • B. Economic patronage ✓
  • C. Political power
  • D. Military power
Correct Answer: B — Economic patronage
Explanation:
Merchants promoted the religion through economic support.

Question 67: The Vallabhi Jain Council is associated with what?

  • A. Idol installation
  • B. Compilation of Agamas ✓
  • C. Division
  • D. Propagation
Correct Answer: B — Compilation of Agamas
Explanation:
The Agamas were compiled in the Vallabhi Council.

Question 68: Which of the following dynasties contributed to the spread of Jainism?

  • A. Gupta
  • B. Maurya ✓
  • C. Chola
  • D. Pallava
Correct Answer: B — Maurya
Explanation:
The Mauryan dynasty, particularly Chandragupta Maurya (as per Jain tradition), supported Jainism. However, its wider spread was significantly aided by merchant communities and regional rulers, especially in Western and Southern India.

Question 69: What was the main reason for the division in Jainism?

  • A. Language dispute
  • B. Differences in practices and beliefs ✓
  • C. Political conflict
  • D. Economic reasons
Correct Answer: B — Differences in practices and beliefs
Explanation:
The Digambara–Shvetambara division arose due to differences in practices and beliefs.

Question 70: Which of the following is associated with the Digambara sect of Jainism?

  • A. Belief that original Agamas are preserved
  • B. Nude ascetic tradition ✓
  • C. Acceptance of women’s liberation (moksha)
  • D. Use of white clothing
Correct Answer: B — Nude ascetic tradition
Explanation:
Digambara monks follow the nude ascetic tradition. They also believe that the original Agamas were lost, while Shvetambaras believe they were preserved and allow white clothing.

Question 71: In which council were the Jain Agamas compiled?

  • A. Pataliputra Council
  • B. Vallabhi Council ✓
  • C. Rajagriha Council
  • D. Ujjain Council
Correct Answer: B — Vallabhi Council
Explanation:
The final compilation of Agamas took place in the Vallabhi Council.

Question 72: Which of the following statements is correct regarding Jain sects?

  • A. The Digambara sect opposes idol worship
  • B. The Shvetambara sect opposes idol worship
  • C. Both Digambara and Shvetambara sects practice idol worship ✓
  • D. All Jain sects oppose idol worship
Correct Answer: C — Both Digambara and Shvetambara sects practice idol worship
Explanation:
Both Digambara and Shvetambara sects practice idol worship; however, some later sub-sects like Sthanakvasi and Terapanthi oppose idol worship.

Question 73: What is the meaning of “Jiva” in Jainism?

  • A. Body
  • B. Soul ✓
  • C. Mind
  • D. Intellect
Correct Answer: B — Soul
Explanation:
Jiva means soul, while the others are parts of the body.

Question 74: For how many years did Mahavira practice penance?

  • A. 10
  • B. 12 ✓
  • C. 14
  • D. 16
Correct Answer: B — 12
Explanation:
Mahavira practiced penance for 12 years; the other numbers are incorrect.

Question 75: Which is the main scripture of Jainism?

  • A. Vedas
  • B. Tripitaka
  • C. Agamas ✓
  • D. Upanishads
Correct Answer: C — Agamas
Explanation:
The Agamas are the principal scriptures of Jainism, while the others belong to different traditions.

Question 76: In Jainism, who is referred to as “Nirgrantha”?

  • A. King
  • B. Ascetic ✓
  • C. Merchant
  • D. Soldier
Correct Answer: B — Ascetic
Explanation:
Nirgrantha refers to ascetics, while the others are general categories.

Question 77: What was the name of Mahavira’s father?

  • A. Siddhartha ✓
  • B. Bimbisara
  • C. Ashoka
  • D. Ajatashatru
Correct Answer: A — Siddhartha
Explanation:
Mahavira’s father was Siddhartha, while the others were rulers.

Question 78: What was the symbol of Parshvanatha?

  • A. Bull
  • B. Lion
  • C. Serpent ✓
  • D. Elephant
Correct Answer: C — Serpent
Explanation:
The symbol of Parshvanatha is a serpent, while the others are associated with different Tirthankaras.

Question 79: What is the main goal of Jainism?

  • A. Attaining heaven
  • B. Moksha ✓
  • C. Accumulation of wealth
  • D. Performing yajna
Correct Answer: B — Moksha
Explanation:
The goal of Jainism is Moksha, while the others are worldly or Vedic goals.

Question 80: What is the meaning of “Asteya” in Jainism?

  • A. Not stealing ✓
  • B. Not committing violence
  • C. Speaking the truth
  • D. Celibacy
Correct Answer: A — Not stealing
Explanation:
Asteya means not stealing, while the others are different vows.

Question 81: Where did Mahavira attain Nirvana?

  • A. Pavapuri ✓
  • B. Vaishali
  • C. Rajagriha
  • D. Shravasti
Correct Answer: A — Pavapuri
Explanation:
Mahavira attained Nirvana at Pavapuri, while the other places are different historical cities.

Question 82: Which of the following is not included in the Five Great Vows (Panch Mahavratas)?

  • A. Ahimsa
  • B. Satya
  • C. Asteya
  • D. Yajna ✓
Correct Answer: D — Yajna
Explanation:
Yajna is related to the Vedic tradition, while the others are Jain vows.

Question 83: What is the meaning of Ahimsa in Jainism?

  • A. Not killing only humans
  • B. Not killing living beings ✓
  • C. Not killing only animals
  • D. Avoiding war
Correct Answer: B — Not killing living beings
Explanation:
Ahimsa means not causing harm to any living being; the other options give a limited meaning.

Question 84: In which language did Mahavira deliver his teachings?

  • A. Sanskrit
  • B. Prakrit ✓
  • C. Pali
  • D. Apabhramsha
Correct Answer: B — Prakrit
Explanation:
Mahavira delivered his teachings in Prakrit, while Sanskrit and Pali are associated with other traditions.

Question 85: Where was Mahavira born?

  • A. Vaishali
  • B. Pataliputra
  • C. Kundagrama ✓
  • D. Rajagriha
Correct Answer: C — Kundagrama
Explanation:
Mahavira was born in Kundagrama, while the other places are different historical cities.

Question 86: How many vows were preached by Parshvanatha?

  • A. 3
  • B. 4 ✓
  • C. 5
  • D. 6
Correct Answer: B — 4
Explanation:
Parshvanatha prescribed four vows, whereas Mahavira gave five great vows.

Question 87: Who was the first Tirthankara of Jainism?

  • A. Parshvanatha
  • B. Rishabhadeva ✓
  • C. Mahavira
  • D. Neminatha
Correct Answer: B — Rishabhadeva
Explanation:
Rishabhadeva was the first Tirthankara, while the others were later ones.

Question 88: Who was the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism?

  • A. Mahavira ✓
  • B. Parshvanatha
  • C. Rishabhadeva
  • D. Neminatha
Correct Answer: A — Mahavira
Explanation:
Mahavira was the 24th Tirthankara; Parshvanatha was the 23rd, while the others were earlier Tirthankaras.

Question 89: What is the total number of Tirthankaras in Jainism?

  • A. 20
  • B. 22
  • C. 24 ✓
  • D. 26
Correct Answer: C — 24
Explanation:
There are a total of 24 Tirthankaras in Jainism; the other options indicate incorrect numbers.

Scroll to Top