MCQs Based On Ancient History – (02)

Correct Option: 4. Atharvaveda
Explanation: The Atharvaveda is the Veda that differs from the other three Vedas (Rig, Sama, and Yajur) in its focus on everyday life and practical concerns, such as healing, magic, and rituals. It includes hymns related to spells, charms, and incantations, as well as prayers for protection from evil spirits, diseases, and curses. It is often regarded as a more “popular” Veda compared to the others, as it reflects the beliefs and practices of ordinary people, as opposed to the high ritualism of the Yajur Veda or the hymnal prayers of the Rig Veda. The Atharvaveda includes both philosophical ideas and practical instructions related to healing and magical rituals.

Correct Option: 1. Dhammapada
Explanation: The Dhammapada is one of the most important canonical texts of Theravada Buddhism. It is part of the Khuddaka Nikaya in the Pali Canon, a collection of early Buddhist scriptures. The Dhammapada is a compilation of the Buddha’s ethical teachings, presented in the form of concise verses. These verses cover a wide range of topics, such as mindfulness, moral conduct, wisdom, and the path to enlightenment. The text is famous for its practical wisdom and has been widely read and respected across all Buddhist traditions. It emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior, mental discipline, and wisdom.

Correct Option: 2. Genealogies of royal dynasties
Explanation: The Puranas are a genre of ancient Hindu texts that primarily deal with mythological stories, genealogies, and histories of gods, kings, and dynasties. They describe the creation of the universe, the genealogies of royal families, and the exploits of deities such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Brahma. The eighteen major Puranas, such as the Vishnu Purana and the Shiva Purana, often contain detailed accounts of dynastic histories, including the Maurya, Gupta, and other important Indian royal families. These texts provide a blend of mythology, history, and religious teachings.

Correct Option: 3. Yajur Veda
Explanation: The Ishopanishad is one of the principal Upanishads and is found as the last chapter of the Yajur Veda. This text is a highly philosophical work, discussing concepts such as the nature of the self (Atman), the ultimate reality (Brahman), and the idea of renunciation. The Ishopanishad is known for its teachings on the unity of all existence and the importance of living in harmony with the natural order. It emphasizes the concept of renunciation, where the individual should dedicate their life to spiritual knowledge and understanding. Its teachings have been highly influential in Vedantic philosophy.

Correct Option: 2. The previous lives of the Buddha
Explanation: The Jataka Tales are a collection of stories that recount the Buddha’s previous lives. In these tales, the Buddha is depicted as a Bodhisattva (one destined for Buddhahood) who takes various forms across different lifetimes to help others and accumulate the virtues required for enlightenment. These stories are not only moral fables but also provide a glimpse into Buddhist ideals such as compassion, self-sacrifice, and wisdom. They offer practical ethical teachings and illustrate the gradual development of the Buddha’s character through successive lives. These stories are included in the Khuddaka Nikaya of the Pali Canon.