'Buddhism grew rapidly both during the lifetime of the Buddha and after his death'.
In reference to the above given statement, identify the incorrect option.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Buddhism placed emphasis on 'varna' order in the society.
Option (1) It appealed to many people, dissatisfied with existing religious practices. — Correct statement. Buddhism grew rapidly because it appealed to many people dissatisfied with existing religious practices.
Option (2) People were confused by the rapid social changes taking place around them. — Correct statement. It also appealed to people confused by the rapid social changes taking place around them.
Option (3) Buddhism attached importance to conduct and values rather than claims of superiority based on birth. — Correct statement. The importance it attached to conduct and values rather than claims of superiority based on birth drew men and women to its teachings.
Option (4) Buddhism placed emphasis on ‘varna’ order in the society. — Incorrect statement. Buddhism did the opposite: it valued conduct over claims of superiority based on birth, on which the varna order rests, and emphasised metta (fellow feeling) and karuna (compassion).
NCERT (2026-27): “6. Followers of the Buddha … Buddhism grew rapidly both during the lifetime of the Buddha and after his death, as it appealed to many people dissatisfied with existing religious practices and confused by the rapid social changes taking place around them. The importance attached to conduct and values rather than claims of superiority based on birth, the emphasis placed on metta (fellow feeling) and karuna (compassion), especially for those who were younger and weaker than oneself, were ideas that drew men and women to Buddhist teachings.” |