Q1. The Buddha’s teachings are primarily found in which collection?
- Upanishads
- Vedas
- Pitakas
- Smritis
Correct Option: 3. Pitakas
Explanation: The Buddha’s teachings were compiled by his followers after his death and preserved in the Tripitaka (Three Baskets): the Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka, and Abhidhamma Pitaka. The Sutta Pitaka mainly contains discourses (Suttas) delivered by the Buddha.
Q2. According to Buddhist philosophy, which of the following correctly defines ‘Anicca’?
- Non-self
- Transience or impermanence
- Desire
- Suffering
Correct Option: 2. Transience or impermanence
Explanation: Anicca means everything in the world is temporary and constantly changing. This is one of the key principles of Buddhist thought, emphasizing that attachment to impermanent things leads to suffering.
Q3. The Four Noble Truths were taught to explain:
- The origin of the universe
- The method of performing rituals
- The nature, cause, and cessation of suffering
- The superiority of monks over laymen
Correct Option: 3. The nature, cause, and cessation of suffering
Explanation: The Four Noble Truths form the foundation of Buddhism. They explain that life involves suffering (Dukkha), that suffering arises from desire (Samudaya), that suffering can end (Nirodha), and that the path leading to its end is the Eightfold Path (Magga).
Q4. What does ‘Nibbana’ or ‘Nirvana’ signify in Buddhism?
- The end of physical life
- Union with God
- Extinction of desire, greed, and ego
- Attainment of heaven
Correct Option: 3. Extinction of desire, greed, and ego
Explanation: Nirvana is not physical death; it is the state of liberation from all desires, attachments, and ignorance. It is the ultimate goal in Buddhism — the cessation of suffering and rebirth.
Q5. Which of the following best describes Buddhist belief regarding the soul (Atman)?
- Soul is eternal and unchanging
- Soul merges with God after death
- Soul is a myth and does not exist
- Soul reincarnates forever
Correct Option: 3. Soul is a myth and does not exist
Explanation: Buddhism rejects the idea of an eternal soul (Atman). Instead, it teaches Anatta (no-soul), meaning there is no permanent self or essence in living beings.