Q1. Which of the following symbols represents the Birth of Buddha?
- Bodhi Tree
- Bull and Lotus
- Horse
- Dhammachakra
Correct Option: 2. Bull and Lotus
Explanation: In early Buddhist art (especially during the Mauryan and Sunga periods), the Buddha was not depicted in human form — a concept known as Aniconism. Instead, his life events were represented symbolically.
• Lotus and Bull: Symbolize his birth in Lumbini. The bull is associated with his zodiac sign (Taurus) and the lotus with purity and divine birth.
• Horse (Kanthaka): Symbolizes the Great Renunciation, when Siddhartha left his palace.
• Bodhi Tree: Symbol of Enlightenment (at Bodh Gaya).
• Dhammachakra (Wheel of Law): Marks the First Sermon at Sarnath.
• Footprints: Represent Parinirvana or the Buddha’s final passing.
These symbols later evolved into anthropomorphic images during the Kushan period (1st–2nd century CE) under Gandhara and Mathura schools of art.
Q2. The term Nirvana in Buddhism refers to:
- The death of Buddha
- The extinction of desire and ego
- The end of life cycle
- The union with God
Correct Option: 2. The extinction of desire and ego
Explanation: Nirvana (Pali: Nibbana) literally means “blowing out” or “extinction.” It refers to the extinction of desires (tanha), attachment, greed, hatred, and ignorance, which are the causes of human suffering (dukkha).
It is not physical death but a state of ultimate liberation and spiritual enlightenment, where the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara) ceases.
Unlike Hinduism, Buddhism rejects the existence of an eternal soul (atman) and a creator God, hence Nirvana is not union with God but freedom from worldly attachments and illusions.
Q3. The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism deal primarily with:
- The nature and end of suffering
- The origin of the universe
- The moral duties of rulers
- The rules for monastic life
Correct Option: 1. The nature and end of suffering
Explanation: The Four Noble Truths (Chattari Ariya Saccani) form the foundation of Buddhist philosophy:
(1) Dukkha – Life is full of suffering and dissatisfaction.
(2) Samudaya – The cause of suffering is desire or craving (tanha).
(3) Nirodha – Suffering can be ended by extinguishing desire.
(4) Magga – The way to end suffering is the Eightfold Path (Ashtangika Marga).
Together, these truths emphasize self-awareness and ethical living as the way to liberation, rather than ritual worship or sacrifice.
Q4. The term Anatta in Buddhist philosophy means:
- Everything is impermanent
- The existence of soul
- The absence of a permanent self or soul
- Eternal bliss
Correct Option: 3. The absence of a permanent self or soul
Explanation: Anatta (no-self or soullessness) is one of the Three Universal Truths (Tri-lakkhana) along with Anicca (impermanence) and Dukkha (suffering).
Buddha denied the existence of an eternal, unchanging soul (Atman), arguing that the self is merely a combination of five aggregates (Panch Skandhas):
(1) Form (Rupa),
(2) Sensation (Vedana),
(3) Perception (Sanna),
(4) Mental formations (Sankhara), and
(5) Consciousness (Vinnana).
Since all these are transient, there is no permanent “I” or “self.” This idea marked a clear departure from Upanishadic and Brahmanical doctrines.
Q5. Who was the first woman to be ordained as a bhikkhuni in the Buddhist Sangha?
- Sujata
- Mahapajapati Gotami
- Yashodhara
- Amrapali
Correct Option: 2. Mahapajapati Gotami
Explanation: Mahapajapati Gotami, Buddha’s foster mother and aunt (sister of Queen Maya), was the first woman to be ordained as a bhikkhuni (nun).
Initially, Buddha was reluctant to admit women into the Sangha, fearing it would weaken the order. Later, at Ananda’s request, he allowed it under special rules (Garudhammas).
The inclusion of women was a progressive step in ancient Indian society, granting them spiritual equality and opportunities for monastic life and education.