Identify the idea which is not related to the Jaina philosophy?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Monastic existence is not a necessary condition of salvation
The Jaina philosophy was taught by Mahavira and the 23 tirthankaras before him. The question asks for the idea that does not belong to it.
Option (1) The entire world is animated — A Jaina idea (not the answer). This is the most important idea in Jainism: even stones, rocks and water have life, which is why non-injury (ahimsa) is central to it.
Option (2) The cycle of birth and rebirth is shaped through karma — A Jaina idea (not the answer). Jaina teachings say that karma shapes the cycle of birth and rebirth.
Option (3) Monastic existence is not a necessary condition of salvation — Not a Jaina idea (the answer). The Jainas taught the opposite: freedom from karma can be achieved only by renouncing the world, so monastic existence is a necessary condition of salvation. The word ‘not’ turns a Jaina teaching into its opposite.
Option (4) Asceticism and penance are required to free oneself from the cycle of karma — A Jaina idea (not the answer). Asceticism and penance are the Jaina way to free oneself from the cycle of karma.
NCERT (2025-26): “3. Beyond Worldly Pleasures … The most important idea in Jainism is that the entire world is animated: even stones, rocks and water have life. Non-injury to living beings, especially to humans, animals, plants and insects, is central to Jaina philosophy. In fact the principle of ahimsa, emphasised within Jainism, has left its mark on Indian thinking as a whole. According to Jaina teachings, the cycle of birth and rebirth is shaped through karma. Asceticism and penance are required to free oneself from the cycle of karma. This can be achieved only by renouncing the world; therefore, monastic existence is a necessary condition of salvation.…” |