Punjab State Board PSEB 12th Class Religion Book Solutions Chapter 4 Introduction to Vedic Literature Textbook Exercise Questions and Answers.
PSEB Solutions for Class 12 Religion Chapter 4 Introduction to Vedic Literature
Long Answer Type Questions:
Question 1.
Describe the salient features of Vedic literature in brief but meaningful.
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Discuss the salient features of Vedic literature.
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Describe the salient features and importance of Vedic literature.
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What is meant by Vedic literature? Explain briefly the early and later Vedic literature.
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Give a brief introduction of Vedic literature. Write short notes on four Vedas as well.
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Explain the main features and importance of the Vedic literature.
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Give a brief introduction about, the Vedic literature.
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Describe the salient features of vedic literature.
Answer:
Vedic literature implies that literature which was composed by the Aryans and this literature is considered to be a storehouse of valuable knowledge. It describes the solutions to the spiritual and other problems of life. Undoubtedly the main objective behind the composition of Vedic literacture was religious but it also gives a clear indication of the social, economic and political life of the people of the early Vedic period.
For this reason, this literature is considered to be a trustworthy source of the ancient Indian history. It is completely written in Sanskrit. On the basis of the time of composition, the Vedic literature can be divided into two parts : the early Vedic understand their meanings.
There are different Brahmanas in each Veda. Most famous among the Brahmanas are Aitareya Brahmana, Taittiriya Brahmana, Gopatha Brahmana and Shatpatha Brahmana etc. They have been written in prose. They give us knowledge about the methods of performing yajnas and sacrifices. These also give a complete description of the brave deeds of the popular kings. The Brahmanas . have great historic value.
3. The Aranyakas : These texts are a part of the Brahmanas. These texts have been written about the ascetics who lived in the forests. They emphasie more on the spiritual subjects and moral duties. They also explain about the customs associated with yajnas and sacrifices. Aitareya Aranyaka, Kaushitaki Aranyaka, Taittiriya Aranyaka and Brihada Aranyaka are the names of a few very popular texts.
4. The Upanishads : The Upanishads are those texts which describe knowledge. Since they are the last part of the Vedas, they are also called the Vedanta. They are 108 in number and they were composed by different hermits between 1000-500 B.C. Famous among these are Isha, Kena, Katha, Prashna, Mundaka, Aitareya, Chhandogya, Brihad Aranyaka, Kaushitaki and Shveta Shvatara. These throw light. on the indepth spiritual subjects.
These try to tell what soul is and what is its relation to the Supreme Soul. They have tried to solve several mysteries pertaining to life and death. They throw ample light on subjects like Karma, Moksha, Maya and Transmigration. Dr. S.R. Goyal has rightly said, “The Upanishadic philosophy is rightly regarded as the source of all Indian Philosophy.”
(B) Later Vedic Literature:
The Vedangas, Sutras, Upavedas, Puranas, Dharama shastras and Epics are . included in the later Vedic period. The literature composed during this period is also, called Smriti because this was composed by the hermits based on their knowledge.
1. The Vedangas: The Vedangas imply a part of the Vedas. They are 6 in number, and they are related to different subjects. They are Shiksha, Chhanda, Kalpa, Viyakarana, Nirukta and Jyotisha. Most important is the Kalpa Vedanga which describes the customs and traditions of the Aryans Vedangas are important to comprehend the Vedas properly and to recite them properly.
2. The Sutras: A new style of writing emerged in literature in the later Vedic, period. This was called the Sutra. These tried to indicate more meaning in fewer words. Their main objective was that the people may easily memorize the Vedic literature. These can be divided into three categories.
Srauta Sutra: It describes the yajnas, sacrifices, and other religious customs and traditions.
Griha Sutra: This Sutra is the most important Sutra among all the Sutras. It describes all the duties to be performed by human beings from birth to death.
Dharma Sutra: It gives a description of the laws and traditions prevalent then. The Upavedas :
3. The Upavedas are an aid to the Vedas. These are four in number.
- Ayurveda: It describes medicinal herbs.
- Dhanurveda: It describes the art of fighting battles.
- Gandharvaveda: It throws light on the subjects pertaining to music.
- Shilpa Veda: It gives information related to art and architecture.
4. The Dharmashastras: The Dharmashastras are the law texts of the Hindus. These are also called the Smriti Grants. Of these, Manu Smriti is the oldest and the most important Dharmashastra. Besides this, the other important Shastras are Yajnavalkya Smriti, Vishnu Smriti and Narad Smriti. These throw ample light on the four castes, ashramas, daily rites to be performed, duties of the rulers and the judicial system. Hence the Dharmashastras are very important from the historical point of view.
5. The Puranas : The Puranas mean ancient. It is one of our important sources to know about ancient history. There are 18 Puranas in all. Popular among them are Vishnu, Bhagvata, Matsya and Vayu Purana. Each Purana has been divided into five parts. The first part deals with the origin of the world, the second discusses the second origin of the world, the third discusses the lineage of gods, the fourth discusses the Mahayugas and the fifth discusses the famous dynasties. Historically, the fifth part of Puranas is the most beneficial.
6. Six Schools of Indian Philosophy: There are six well-known schools of Hindu philosophy, popularly known as Darshanas or Shastras. In these testaments, many wise Rishis had tried to explain intricate philosophical thoughts connecting God, soul, death and birth. The higher philosophy indicates how superior was the deep wisdom of the Aryans How were the Aryans ahead of others and how could they check the temptations of materialism.
- Sankhya Shastra of Kapila: Rishi Kapila is the author of this Shastra. He denies the existence of God and asserts that matter (prakrit) and soul are the only two realities. It is through the formation and reformation of matter and soul, the creation takes place.
- Yoga Shastra of Patanjali: It is directly related to the Yoga and suggests the practice of Yoga’ with the object of achieving God.
- Nyaya Shastra of Gautama: Rishi Gautama has expounded a philosophy that God can be realised through right thinking and right knowledge.
- Vaisheshik Shastra of Kanad: Rishi Kanad holds the view that the whole world is an assimilation of atoms, which are indestructible.
- Purva Mimansa of Jamini: Jamini’s philosophy throws light on the sacrifices and religous rites of the Aryans which is a key to the attainment of Mukti.
- Uttar Mimansa of Vyasa: Rishi Vyasa advocates worshipping of God. God is supreme, omnipotent and omnipresent. Therefore, He alone should be worshipped with utmost sincerity and devotion.
7. The Epics : The Ramayana and the Mahabharata are two famous epics of the later Vedic period. The Ramayana was written by Maharishi Valmiki. It has 24,000 shalokas in it. The main subject of the Ramayana is the battle between Sri Ramchandra and Ravana. The Mahabharata is the biggest epic of India. It was written by Rishi Veda Vyasa. It has more than 1,00,000 shalokas in it. The Bhagvadgita is a part of the Mahabharata. The main subject of the Mahabharata is the battle between the Pandvas and the Kauravas.
These two epics throw ample light on the religious, social, political and economic conditions of the people at that time. Professor H.V. Sreenivasa Murthy has rightly said, “The two great epics, the Ramayana and the Mahabharata throw a flood of light on various aspects of human culture. They have to a large extent, moulded the character and life of our people. Thus they form the strongest link between India, old and new.”
Importance of the Vedic Literature:
The Vedic literature occupies a special place in Indian history. It is called the heart and soul of Hinduism; The reason for this is that this literature describes in great detail the basic principles of Hindu philosophy. How was this earth created? What is Atman (Soul)? What is its connection with the Parmatman? What is Moksha and how is it attained? What is Karma? What is knowledge? Why does man keep wandering in the vicious circle of vices?
These are a few mysterious questions the answers to which are clearly given in the later Vedic literature. Hence the Vedic literature acts as a pillar of Hinduism. Besides this, the literature is a valuable source of information about the social, political and economic life of people.
In brief, the Vedic literature acted as a mirror for the Indian culture? It has been a source of inspiration for the authors and scholars of not only India but abroad as well. Undoubtedly, it is a matter of great pride for us. In the words of the famous historians B.P. Saha and K.S. Behera, “The Vedic literature is a magnificient contribution of the Aryans to the Indian culture and civilisation. No doubt, the Vedas are predominantly religious literature but the Vedas directly indicate about religious, social, economic and political conditions of the time.”
Question 2.
Explain the following :
- Puranas
- Upanishads
- Rigveda
- Shastras.
Answer:
(1) Puranas : The Puranas mean ancient. It is one of our important sources to know about ancient history. There are 18 Puranas in all. Popular among them are Vishnu, Bhagvata, Matsya and Vayu Purana. Each Purana has been divided into five parts. The first part deals with the origin of the world, the second discusses the second origin of the world, the third discusses the lineage of gods, the fourth discusses the Mahayugas and the fifth discusses the famous dynasties. Historically, the fifth part of Puranas is the most beneficial.
(2) Upanishads : The Upanishads are those texts which describe knowledge. Since they are the last part of the Vedas, they are also called the Vedanta. They are 108 in number and they were composed by different hermits between 1000-500 B.C. Famous among these are Isha, Kena, Katha, Prashna, Mundaka, Aitareya, Chhandogya, Brihad Aranyaka, Kaushitaki and Shveta Shvatara. These throw light. on the indepth spiritual subjects.
These try to tell what soul is and what is its relation to the Supreme Soul. They have tried to solve several mysteries pertaining to life and death. They throw ample light on subjects like Karma, Moksha, Maya and Transmigration. Dr. S.R. Goyal has rightly said, “The Upanishadic philosophy is rightly regarded as the source of all Indian Philosophy.”
3. Rigveda : Vedic literature implies that literature which was composed by the Aryans and this literature is considered to be a storehouse of valuable knowledge. It describes the solutions to the spiritual and other problems of life. Undoubtedly the main objective behind the composition of Vedic literacture was religious but it also gives a clear indication of the social, economic and political life of the people of the early Vedic period.
For this reason, this literature is considered to be a trustworthy source of the ancient Indian history. It is completely written in Sanskrit. On the basis of the time of composition, the Vedic literature can be divided into two parts : the early Vedic understand their meanings.
4. Shastras : There are six well-known schools of Hindu philosophy, popularly known as Darshanas or Shastras. In these testaments, many wise Rishis had tried to explain intricate philosophical thoughts connecting God, soul, death and birth. The higher philosophy indicates how superior was the deep wisdom of the Aryans How were the Aryans ahead of others and how could they check the temptations of materialism.
- Sankhya Shastra of Kapila: Rishi Kapila is the author of this Shastra. He denies the existence of God and asserts that matter (prakrit) and soul are the only two realities. It is through the formation and reformation of matter and soul, the creation takes place.
- Yoga Shastra of Patanjali: It is directly related to the Yoga and suggests the practice of Yoga’ with the object of achieving God.
- Nyaya Shastra of Gautama: Rishi Gautama has expounded a philosophy that God can be realised through right thinking and right knowledge.
- Vaisheshik Shastra of Kanad: Rishi Kanad holds the view that the whole world is an assimilation of atoms, which are indestructible.
- Purva Mimansa of Jamini: Jamini’s philosophy throws light on the sacrifices and religous rites of the Aryans which is a key to the attainment of Mukti.
- Uttar Mimansa of Vyasa: Rishi Vyasa advocates worshipping of God. God is supreme, omnipotent and omnipresent. Therefore, He alone should be worshipped with utmost sincerity and devotion.
Question 3.
Describe the salient features of four Vedas in brief but meaningful.
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Discuss in brief four Vedas and their importance in, the field of Religion.
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How many Vedas are there? Explain with their names in brief but meaningful.
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How Vedas were written? Discuss any two in brief.
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Discuss in brief but iqeaningful the importance of four Vedas.
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Describe the main features of Vedas.
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Write the names of the four Vedas. Explain in brief any two Vedas.
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Write about the main characteristics of the Vedas. Name any two of the Vedas.
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Write in brief about the four Vedas.
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What do you know about the Vedas?
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Name the four Vedas. Explain Rigveda in detail.
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Discuss the subject-matter of the Rigveda. Name the four Vedas.
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Throw light on the subject-matter of the Rigveda.
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What are the total number of Vedas? Explain any two Vedas.
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Describe the main contents of Rigveda and Samaveda.
Answer:
The Vedas have the highest position in Vedic literature. There are four Vedas. Their names are Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda and Aharvaveda. The Atharvaveda was added to the count of Vedas in the end. For this reason, the first three Vedas are also known by the name of ‘Terai’. These Vedas have been written in Sanskrit. These are considered to be the most sacred texts of Hinduism. The word Veda has been derived from the element ‘Vid’ which means knowledge or to know.
In other words, the Vedas can be called the storehouse of knowledge of the a This knowledge had been acquired by Rishis. For this reason, the Vedas have also been called ‘Smriti’ The Vedas were composed between 1500 B.C. and 600 B.C. Undoubtedly, the Vedas are a valuable source to know about the religious, social, political and economic history of the Aryans A brief description of the features of the Vedas is as follows :
1. The Rigveda : The Rigveda is the ancient and the most important of all the Vedas of the Aryans Rig has been derived from the word ‘Rik’ which means the mantras chanted while worshipping. For this reason, the Rigveda is also called a collection of mantras composed in devotion of the gods. The Rigveda was composed between 1500-1000 B.C. It was a time when the Aryans lived in Punjab. The Rigveda is an exhaustive text. It has 1028 suktas (hymns). Each sukta has several mantras. The total number of mantras in the Rigveda are 10,562.
These have been divided into ten chapters. Some chapters are big while some are small. The first and tenth chapter (mandal) are the lengthiest. Both the mandals have 191 stanzas each. The second to seventh mandals are considered to be the heart of the Rigveda. They are considered to be older than the rest of the mandals. The ninth chapter has in it the mantras devoted to Lord Soma only.
The Rigveda has the maximum number of mantras (250) in devotion of Lord Indra. 200 mantras are in devotion of Agni. The rest are devoted to Varan, Suryar Rudra, ‘ Soma, Usha, Ratri and Saraswati. All these gods and goddesses were considered to be a symbol of natural forces. These gods were very powerful and great. They used to acquire human form and when appeased by the devotion of their devotees, blessed them with several boons. They were worshipped to obtain victory in battles, obtain wealth, a comfortable and long life and children. Several Rishis have written mantras in the Rigveda. Popular among them were Vishwamitra, Bhardwaj, Vashishtha, Vamadeva, Atri, Kanva and Gritsmada.
The Rigveda has mantras by women like y Apala Ghosha, Vishwavara, Mudgalini and Lopamudra etc. The famous Gayatri Mantra is also given in the Rigveda which is read by the Hindus even today. Though the Rigveda was composed from religious point of view yet it has great historical importance as well.
2. The Samaveda : The word Sama means melodious songs. For this reason, it is also called a collection of melodious songs. It has a total of 1875 mantras. Of these, only 75 mantras are new and the rest have been extracted from the Rigveda. These mantras have been divided into two parts which are called Poorvarachika and Uttarrachika. There are 650 mantras in the Poorvarachika whereas there are 1225 mantras in the Uttarrachika.
The mantras were sung melodiously during the performance of yajnas. The priests who used to sing these mantras were called the Udagatris. These mantras were sung in the seven swaras. Three types of musical instruments were used while singing the mantras i.e. Venu, Dudubhi and Veena. Undoubtedly, the Samaveda can be called the first and the most valuable source of Indian music.
3. The Yajurveda : Yajur implies yajna and Yajurveda is a text that consists of the mantras recited at the time of performance of yajnas. It has 2086 mantras in it. These mantras have been divided into 40 chapters. A part of the Yajurveda is in prose and a part of it is in poetic form. It is believed that this Veda was composed in Kurukshetra. The objective of this Veda was to tell about the procedure to be followed during the performance of yajnas.
The priests who helped while performing the yajnas were called ‘Adhavaryu’. The yajnas were performed in order to appease the gods so that they could fulfil the desires of their devotees. Hence, this Veda was centred around ‘Karmakanda’. It also tells about the measures to acquire divine powers. This Veda is divided into two parts i.e. Shukla Yajurveda and Krishna Yajurveda. The Shukla Yajurveda describes only the mantras whereas the Krishna Yajurveda also gives their meanings. This Veda gives us valuable information about the social and religious lives of the Aryans
4. The Atharvaveda : The Atharvaveda was composed in the end. Its name came from the name of Atharvana Rishi. He was the master of magical powers and was famous for destroying ghosts and spirits. Infact, the Atharvaveda is actually a collection of mantras related to black magic. It gives methods to control the powers of ghosts and witches. This proves that there was a drastic change in the religious life of the Aryans by then. Besides this, this Veda also describes the cure of the several diseases. This Veda is also called the Brahmaveda because this Veda was written by Brahman priests.
They took the aid of Agni to protect human beings from ghosts and spirits. There are a total 731 hymns and approximately 6000 mantras. Of these, approximately 1200 mantras have been taken from the Rigveda. This Veda has been divided into 20 chapters. Its 20th chapter is the longest which comprises of 928 mantras.
Question 4.
Describe Yajurveda among four vedas.
Answer:
The Yajurveda : Yajur implies yajna and Yajurveda is a text that consists of the mantras recited at the time of performance of yajnas. It has 2086 mantras in it. These mantras have been divided into 40 chapters. A part of the Yajurveda is in prose and a part of it is in poetic form. It is believed that this Veda was composed in Kurukshetra. The objective of this Veda was to tell about the procedure to be followed during the performance of yajnas.
The priests who helped while performing the yajnas were called ‘Adhavaryu’. The yajnas were performed in order to appease the gods so that they could fulfil the desires of their devotees. Hence, this Veda was centred around ‘Karmakanda’. It also tells about the measures to acquire divine powers. This Veda is divided into two parts i.e. Shukla Yajurveda and Krishna Yajurveda. The Shukla Yajurveda describes only the mantras whereas the Krishna Yajurveda also gives their meanings. This Veda gives us valuable information about the social and religious lives of the Aryans.
Question 5.
What is meant by Vedic literature? What are the main subjects of the Vedic literature?
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Examine the important aspects of the Vedas.
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Which main subjects are touched in Rigveda? Mention the total number of hymns given in Rigveda.
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Write about the subject-matter of Rigveda. Write a brief note on the Purush-Sukta hymn.
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Write about the main features of Hinduism.
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Give an account of the religious thoughts of Vedas.
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Explain the spiritual importance of Vedas.
Answer:
The Vedic literature primarily describes the principles of Hinduism. It gives a description of polytheism, monotheism and henotheism. It even describes the means of pleasing the gods through yajnas and sacrifices. It also describes how the world was created? What is Atman and what is Brahman? What is the relationship between the Atman and Brahman? What is the principle of Karma and Transmigration? What is Moksha and how can it be obtained? What is heaven and hell? A brief description of these thoughts is given below :
1. Polytheism : It is clear from the description in the Rigveda that in the beginning the Aryans worshipped the forces of nature as god. Each shining, thundering and bright looking beautiful object or power was considered as a god or a goddess. According to the Rigveda, the Aryans worshipped 33 gods. These .were divided into three parts. These were : gods of the heaven, gods of earth and the gods between the heaven and the earth. All these gods were considered powerful and great. At one time, a particular god was worshipped and at another instance another deity was worshipped. This popularised the principle of polytheism.
2. Monotheism : During the Vedic Age, there was always the principle of polytheism behind the principle of monotheism. In many places in the Rigveda, Indra is spoken of as the sole Lord of the universe, and Brahman, the sole spirit of all gods, “All gods are one, only the saints have described them differently”. The Ish Upanishad says, “He is fire, He is sun, He is the wind, He is the moon, He is Shukra, He is Brahman, He is water and He is the sole Lord. He is the sole source of light.” It is clear from these examples that the Aryans believed in one omnipotent god.
3. Henotheism : Although the Aryans believed in several gods yet none of them was considered superior or inferior. Each was considered great in his own right and each of them was praised with the same devotion. The deity related to a region was considered supreme in that region. A verse in Rigveda cites, ‘O deities ! None of you is inferior, none of you is a small child. You all are great.” In this manner, the Aryans considered all their gods equal.
4. Yajnas and Sacrifices: To appease the gods and goddesses, the Aryans indulged in several yajnas during the Vedic period. These were conducted methodically with all the rituals so that the deity may not get displeased due to any mistake. First a vedi was built for the yajnas. Then the pious fire was ignited. In this fire ghee, milk, rice and somras were poured. Several animals like goat, sheep and horses were sacrificed during the yajnas.
The small yajnas were conducted at the family level whereas the bigger yajnas were conducted by the elite class. During the post Vedic period, these yajnas had become a complex process. There was a hope or desire for victory in battles, acquisition of wealth, obtaining a child and happy family life behind performing these yajnas. According to Dr. S.R. Goyal, “Vedic religion was essentially a religion of yajnas or sacrifices. The worshipper offered some oblations to god with the chanting of prayers and expected that God would grant him desired boon in return.”
5. How was the world created? : How was the world created? The Nasdia Sukta of Rigveda gives us important information with regard to this. It tells us that before the creation of the world, there was the presence of God alone. There was darkness all around without Him. It was then that God decided to create the world. Not only did he create men, animals, birds, etc. but also created the sun, the moon, the stars, mountains, seas, rivers and flowers etc. The Upanishads have also repeatedly described that the Brahman had created the whole universe.
6. What is Self? : The Aryans believed in Self. The .word Self has been often used in the Upanishads. It is omnipresent. The living element in all creatures is the Self. For this reason, this is called the source of all light. It is Brahman or God. It assumes a living role and resides in the hearts of all beings. The Self is immortal. It continues to enter from one body to the other till it attains freedom from all Karmas. After this, it sublimes with Brahman. In this manner, there is no distinction between Self and Brahman.
7. What is Absolute? : The Upanishads vividly describe the Absolute (the Brahman). It is the Brahman who is the creator of this world. He is the master of unlimited powers. He is capable of doing everything. He is the source of all fights. He is the true heart and an epitome of happiness. He is the store-house of complete knowledge. His description is beyond words. He is immortal. Brahman is the Atman, the Self. For this reason, there is no basic distinction between Brahman and the Self.
8. Worship of Forefathers : The Rigveda gives a description of the worship of forefathers. The forefathers resided in heaven. They were the ancestors of the Aryans Their worship was considered equivalent to the worship of gods. There are several verses in the Rigveda in their devotion. It was expected that the worship of the forefathers would help protection of their descendants, would eradicate their problems, would bless them with wealth, power, long fife and children. With time, the devotion of the Aryans towards the worship of their forefathers increased manifold.
9. Rita and Dharman : The Rigveda and the other Vedic texts have described the words Rita and Dharman several times. Rita implies the process that runs the functioning of this world. It is according to the Rita that the sun rises in the morning. The sun, moon and stars appear bright. The earth revolves around the sun. It eradicates all darkness to spread light. Rita is therefore a universal truth.
Anrita (myth) is the opposite of Rita. Dining the time of the Upanishads, the word Dharma replaced the word Rita. The word ‘Dharman’ means law. These were constructed by the gods. These were applicable to the materialistic world, men and sacrifices. The good men led their lives according to Dharman.
10. Karma and Transmigration : The Vedic literature has time and again mentioned that man is the maker of his own luck. What he sows, so shall he reap. If he performs good deeds, he would be free from the vicious circle of transmigration and attain Moksha (salvation). If he indulges in ill-deeds, he would always be sad and troubled and he would under no circumstances receive freedom from transmigration, A man’s deeds follow him just like his own shadow.
11. Moksha : The attainment of Moksha is the prime objective of the life of a man’s life. Due to his ignorance and lack of knowledge, man spends his entire life running after the attainment of materialistic ends. He indulges in materialistic pleasures and thinks that he has achieved everything by acquiring wealth. He forgets that everything in this world is momentary. He is forever trapped in these cobwebs and is never able to get freedom.
When man is able to overcome his ignorance, all his doubts get eradicated. He knows all and attains freedom from all bonds of the world. This is the condition of Moksha. The Atman sublimes with the Parmatman and he attains happiness forever.
12. Faith in Heaven andi Hell: The Vedic literature describes that the Aryans believed in heaven and hell. According to them, those who lead their lives according to the moral principles, give charity and do not give any trouble to anyone reside in heaven after their death. This is a place where all the gods .reside. It is a place of full happiness. On the other hand, the sinners and wicked men go to hell after death. The Pin-anas etc. give a detailed description of the grave miseries in hell.
13. Purusha-Sukta: The Purusha-Sukta is described in the tenth chapter of the Rigveda. According to this, Brahman had created the Brahmanas from his mouth, the Kshatriyas from his arms, the Vaishyas from his thighs and Shudras from his feet. This led several historians to believe that the caste system had gained popularity during the Rigvedic period. But nowhere else is it mentioned in the Rigveda in this context.
It is said that the Purusha-Sukta was. created several hundred years after the Rigveda. Its language is different from the Rigveda. It is clear from the Purusha- Sukta that at that time the four Varnas i.e. Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras had come into existence. The Brahmanas served as purohits (priests), the Kshatriyas fought battles, the Vaishyas undertook farming and trade and the Shudras worked to serve the rest three Varnas.
Short Answer Type Questions (Type-1):
Question 1.
Describe in brief but meaningful the salient features of Rigveda.
Or
Discuss the importance of Rigveda’ in Vedic literature.
Or
Write a short note on Rigveda.
Answer:
The Rigveda is the .oldest and the most important of all the Vedas of the Aryans It was composed between 1500-1000 B.C. It has 1028 suktas in it which have been divided into 10 chapters.Each hymn has several mantras. The total number of mantras given in the Rigveda is 10,552. The maximum number of mantras are in praise of Indra. They are 250 in number. The Rigveda is considered to be the most valuable source of knowing about the lives of the Aryans
Question 2.
What do you know about the Samaveda?
Answer:
The word Sama means melodious songs. For this reason Samaveda is also called a collection of melodious songs. It has a total of 1875 mantras. Of these, only 75 mantras are new and the rest have been extracted from the Rigveda. The mantras were sung melodiously during the performance of yajnas. The priests who used to sing these mantras were called the Udagatris. Undoubtedly, the Samaveda can be called the first and the most valuable source of Indian music.
Question 3.
Give a brief account of the Yajurveda.
Answer:
Yajur implies yajna and Yajurveda is a text that consists of the mantras recited at the time of performance of yajnas. It has 2086 mantras in it. A part of the Yajurveda is in prose and a part of it is in poetic form. The objective of this Veda was to tell about the procedure to be followed during the performance of yajnas. The priests who helped while performing the yajnas were called ‘Adhavaryu’. The yajnas were performed in order to appease the gods so that they could fulfil the desires of their devotees. Hence, this Veda was centred around ‘Karmakanda’.
Question 4.
Write a short note on the Atharvaveda.
Or
What do you know about Atharvaveda? Explain.
Answer:
The Atharvaveda was composed in the end. In fact, the Atharvaveda is actually a collection of mantras related to black magic. It gives methods to control over the powers of ghosts and witches. This provps that there was a drastic change in the religious life of the Aryans by then. Besides this, this Veda also describes the cure of the several diseases. This Veda is also called the Brahmaveda because this Veda was written by Brahman priests.
Question 5.
What is the importance of the six Shastras of Philosophy?
Or
Describe the importance of Khat Darshan.
Answer:
There are six well-known schools of. Hindu philosophy, popularly known as Darshanas or Shastras. These are
- Sankhya Shastra of Kapila
- Yoga Shastra of Patanjali
- Nyaya Shastra of Gautama
- Vaisheshik Shastra of Kanad
- Purva Mimansa of Jamini
- Uttar Mimansa of Vyasa. In these testaments, many wise ishis tried to explain intricate philosophical thoughts connecting God, soul, death ad birth.
Question 6.
What do you mean by Epics and their importance?
Answer:
The Ramayana and the Mahabharata are two famous epics of the later Vedic period. The Ramayana was written by Maharishi Valmiki. It has 24,000 shlokas in it. The main subject of the Ramayana is the battle between Ramchandra and Ravana. Mahabharata is the biggest epic of India. It was written by Rishi Veda Vyasa. It has more than 1,00,000 shlokas in it. The Bhagvadgita is a part of the Mahabharata. The main subject of the Mahabharata is the battle between the Pandvas and the Kauravas. These two epics throw ample light on the religious, social, political and economic conditions of the people at that time.
Question 7.
Describe the importance of Vedic Literature.
Or
What is the importance of the Vedic Literature?
Or
Describe the prominent features of the vedic literature.
Answer:
The Vedic literature occupies a special place in Indian history. It is called the heart and soul of Hinduism. The reason for this is that this literature describes in great detail the basic principles of Hindu philosophy. How was this earth created? What is Atman? What is its connection with the Parmatman? What is Moksha and how is it attained? What is Karma? What is knowledge? Why does man keep wandering in the vicious circle of vices? These are a few mysterious questions the answers to which are clearly given in the later Vedic literature.
Question 8.
Give a brief account of the main two subjects of the Vedic Literature.
Answer:
- Henotheism : Although the Aryans believed in several gods yet none of them was considered superior or inferior. Each was considered great in his own right and each of them was praised with the same devotion. The deity related to a region was considered supreme in that region.
- Yajnas and Sacrifices : To appease the gods and goddesses, the Aryans indulged in several yajnas during the Vedic period. These were conducted methodically with all the rituals. The small yajnas were conducted at the family level whereas the bigger yajnas were conducted by the elite class. During the post Vedic period, these yajnas had become a complex process. There was a hope or desire for victory in battles, acquisition of wealth, obtaining a child and happy family life behind performing these yajnas.
Question 9.
What is meant by Self and Absolute according to Vedic Literature?
Answer:
- What is Self? : The Aryans believed in Self. The word Self has been often used in the Upanishads. It is omnipresent. The living element in all creatures is the Self. For this reason, this is called the source of all light. It is Brahman or God.
- What is Absolute? : The Upanishads vividly describe the Absolute (the Brahman). It is the Brahman who is the creator of this world. He is the master of unlimitei powers. He is capable of doing everything. He is the source of all lights. He is immorta
Question 10.
What do you mean, by Rita and Dharman?
Answer:
The Rigveda and the other Vedic texts have described the words Rita and Dharman several times, Rita implies the process that runs the functioning of this world. It is according to the Rita that the sun rises in the morning. The sun, moon and stars appear bright. The earth revolves around the sun. It eradicates all darkness to spread light. Rita is therefore a universal truth. Anrita (myth) is the opposite of Rita. During the time of the Upanishads, the word Dharman replaced the word Rita. The word ‘Dharman’ means law. These were constructed by the gods.
Question 11.
What is meant by Moksha according to Vedic Literature?
Answer:
According to the Vedic Literature, the attainment of Moksha is the prime objective of a man’s life. Due to his ignorance and lack of knowledge, man spends his entire life running after the attainment of materialistic ends. When man is able to overcome his ignorance, all his doubts get eradicated. He knows all and attains freedom from all bonds of the world. This is the condition of Moksha. The Soul sublimes with the Supreme Soul and attains happiness forever.
Question 12.
What do you know about Purusha Sukta?
Answer:
The Purusha Sukta is described in the tenth chapter of the Rigveda. According to this, Brahman had created the Brahmanas from his mouth, the Kshatriyas from his arms, the Vaishyas from his thighs and Shudras from his feet. It is clear from the Purusha Sukta that at that time the four Vamas i.e. Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras had come into existence. The Brahmanas served as purohits (priests), the Kshatriyas fought battles, the Vaishyas undertook farming and trade and the Shudras worked to serve the above mentioned three Varnas.
Short Answer Type Questions (Type-2):
Question 1.
Discuss the importance of Rigveda in Vedic liturature.
Or
Write a short note on Rigveda.
Answer:
The Rigveda is the oldest and the most important of all the Vedas of the Aryans It is perhaps the oldest book. It was composed between 1506-1000 B.C. It ‘S 1028 suktas in it which have been divided into 10 chapters. These hymns were iposed by Rishis who were men of great insight and wisdom. Each hymn has mantras. The total number of mantras given in the Rigveda is 10,552. Mantras idressed to various gods and goddesses.
The maximum number of mantras are lise of Indra. They are 250 in number. The gods and goddesses described in the Rigveda symbolised natural forces. They were worshipped for victory in battle, obtaining wealth, children and a comfortable life. The Rigveda is considered to be the most valuable source of knowing about the lives of the Aryans
Question 2.
What do you know about the Samaveda?
Answer:
The word Sama means melodious songs. For this reason Samaveda is also called a collection of melodious songs. It has a total of 1875 mantras. Of these, only 75 mantras are new and the rest have been extracted from the Rigveda. These mantras have been divided into two parts which are called Poorvarachika and Uttarrachika. There are 650 mantras in the Poorvarachika whereas there are 1225 mantras in the Uttarrachika. The mantras were sung melodiously during the performance of yajnas. The priests who used to sing these mantras were called the Udagatris.
These mantras were sung in the seven swaras. Three types of musical instruments were used while singing the mantras i.e. Venu, Dudubhi and Veena. Undoubtedly, the Samaveda can be called the first and the most valuable source of Indian music.
Question 3.
Give a brief account of the Yajurveda.
Answer:
Yajur implies yajna and Yajurveda is a text that consists of the mantras recited at the time of performance of yajnas. It has 2086 mantras in it. These mantras have been divided into 40 chapters. A part of the Yajurveda is in prose and a part of it is in poetic form. It is believed that this Veda was composed in Kurukshetra. The objective of this Veda was to tell about the procedure to be followed during the performance of yajnas. The priests who helped while performing the yajnas were called ‘Adhavaryu’. The yajnas were performed in order to appease the gods so that they could fulfil the desires of their devotees.
Hence, this Veda was centred around ‘Karmakanda’. It also tells about the measures to acquire divine powers. This Veda is divided into two parts i.e. Shukla Yajurveda and Krishna Yajurveda. The Shukla Yajurveda describes only the mantras whereas the Krishna Yajurveda also gives their meanings. This Veda gives us valuable information about the social and religious lives of the Aryans
Question 4.
Write a short note on the Atharvaveda.
Or
What do you know about Atharvaveda? Explain.
Answer:
The Atharvaveda was composed in the end. Its name came from the name of Atharvana Rishi. He was the master of magical powers and was famous for destroying ghosts and spirits. In fact, the Atharvaveda is actually a collection of mantras related to black magic. It gives methods to control over the powers of ghosts and witches. This proves that there was a drastic change in the religious life of the Aryans by ther Besides this, this Veda also describes the cure of the several diseases.
This Veda also called the Brahmaveda because this Veda was written by Brahman prie They took the aid of Agni to protect human beings from ghosts and spirits. Ther a total 731 stanzas and approximately 6000 mantras. Of these, approximately mantras have been extracted from the Rigveda. This Veda has been divided which comprises of 928 mantras.
Question 5.
What is the importance of the six schools of Indian Philosophy?
Answer:
There are six well-known schools of Hindu philosophy, popularly known as Darshanas or Shastras. In these testaments, many wise Rishis tried to explain intricate philosophical thoughts connecting God, soul, death and birth. The higher philosophy indicates how the deep wisdom of the Aryans was superior, how they were ahead of others and how they could check the temptations of materialism.
- Sankhya Shastra of Kapila : Rishi Kapila is the author of this Shastra. He denies the existence of God and asserts that matter (prakrit) and soul are the only two realities. It is through the formation and reformation of matter and soul, the creation takes place.
- Yoga Shastra of Patanjali : It is directly related to the Yoga and suggests the practice of Yoga for achieving God.
- Nyaya Shastra of Gautama : Rishi Gautama has expounded a philosophy that God can be realised through right thinking and right knowledge.
- Vaisheshik Shastra of Kanad : Rishi Kanad holds the view that the whole world is an assimilation of atoms, which are indestructible.
- Purva Mimansa of Jamini : Jamini’s philosophy throws light on the sacrifices and religious rites of the Aryans which is a key to the attainment of Mukti.
- Uttar Mimansa of Vyasa : Here Rishi Vyasa advocates worshipping of God. God is supreme, omnipotent and Maker of everything. Therefore, He should be worshipped with utmost sincerity and devotion.
Question 6.
What do you mean by Epics and their .importance?
Answer:
The Ramayana and the Mahabharata are two famous epics of the later Vedic period. The Ramayana was written by Maharishi Valmiki. It has 24,000 shlokas in it. The main subject of the Ramayana is the battle between Ramchandra and Ravana. Mahabharata is the biggest epic of India. It was written by Rishi Veda Vyasa. It has more than 1,00,000 shlokas in it. The Bhagvadgita is a part of the Mahabharata. The main subject of the Mahabharata is the battle between the Pandvas and the Kauravas. These two epics throw ample light on the religious, social, political and economic conditions of the people at that time.
Question 7.
Describe the vedic literature.
Or
Describe the importance of Vedic Literature.
Or
What is the importance of the Vedic Literature?
Or
Describe the prominent features of the vedic literature.
Answer:
The Vedic literature occupies a special place in Indian history. It is called the heart and soul of Hinduism. The reason for this is that this literature describes in great detail the basic principles of Hindu philosophy. How was this earth created? What is Atman? What is its connection with the Parmatman? What is Moksha and how is it attained? What is Karma? What is knowledge? Why does man keep wandering in the vicious circle of vices? These are a few mysterious questions the answers to which are clearly given in the later Vedic literature.
Hence the Vedic literature acts as a pillar of Hinduism. Besides this, the literature is a valuable source of information about the social, political and economic life of people. In brief, the Vedic literature acted as a mirror for the Indian culture. It has been a source of inspiration for the authors and scholars of not only India but abroad as well. Undoubtedly, it is a matter of great pride for us.
Question 8.
Describe the number of Vedas and their contents in brief but meaningful.
Or
Give a brief account of the main subjects of the Vedic Literature.
Or
Describe the prominent features of Vedic literature.
Answer:
The number of Vedas are four. The main subjects of the vedic literature are as follows :
(1) Henotheism : Although the Aryans believed in several gods yet none of them Was considered superior or inferior. Each was considered great in his own right and each of them was praised with the same devotion. The deity related to a region was considered supreme in that region.
(2) Yajnas and Sacrifices : To appease the gods and goddesses, the Aryans indulged in several yajnas during the Vedic period. These were conducted methodically with all the rituals. The small yajnas were conducted at the family level whereas the bigger yajnas were conducted by the elite class. During the post Vedic period, these yajnas had become a complex process. There was a hope or desire for victory in battles, acquisition of wealth, obtaining a child and happy family life behind performing these yajnas.
(3) How was the world created? : How was the world created? The Nasdia Sukta of Rigveda gives us important information with regard to this. It tells us that before the creation of the world, there was the presence of God alone. There was darkness all around without Him. It was then that God decided to create the world.
(4) What is Self? : The Aryans believed in Self. The word Self has been often used in the Upanishads. It is omnipresent. The living element in all creatures is the Self. For this reason, this is called the source of all light. It is Brahman or God.
(5) What is Absolute? : The Upanishads vividly describe the Absolute (the Brahman). It is the Brahman who is the creator of this world. He is the master of unlimited powers. He is capable of doing everything. He is the source of all lights. He is immortal.
Question 9.
What do you mean by Rita and Dharman?
Answer:
The Rigveda and the other Vedic texts have described the words Rita and Dharman several times. Rita implies the process that runs the functioning of this world. It is according to the Rita that the sun rises in the morning. The sun, moon and stars appear bright. The earth revolves around the sun. It eradicates all darkness to spread light. Rita is therefore a universal truth. Anrita (myth) is the opposite of. Rita.
During the time of the Upariishads, the word Dharman replaced the word Rita. The word ‘Dharman’ means law: These were constructed by the gods. These were applicable to the materialistic world, men and sacrifices. The good men led their lives, according to Dharman.
Question 10.
What is meant by Moksha according to Vedic Literature?
Answer:
According to the Vedic Literature, the attainment of Moksha is the prime objective of a man’s life. Due to his ignorance and lack of knowledge, man spends his.: entire life running after the attainment of materialistic ends. He indulges in materialistic pleasures and thinks that he has achieved everything by acquiring wealth. He forgets that everything in this world is momentary. He is forever trapped in these cobwebs and is never able to get freedom.
When man is able to overcome his ignorance, all his doubts get eradicated. He knows all and attains freedom from all bonds of the world. This is the condition of Moksha. The Soul sublimes with the Supreme Soul and attains happiness forever.
Question 11.
What do you know about Purusha Sukta?
Answer:
The Purusha Sukta is described in the tenth chapter of the Rigveda. According to this, Brahman had created the Brahmanas from his mouth, the Kshatriyas from his arms, the Vaishyas from his thighs and Shudras from his feet. This led several historians to believe that the caste system had gained popularity during the Rigvedic period. But nowhere else is it mentioned in the Rigveda in this context. It is said that the Purusha Sukta was created several hundred years after the Rigveda.
Its language is different from the Rigveda. It is clear from the Purusha Sukta that at that time the four Varnas i.e. Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Shudras had come into existence. The Brahmanas served as purohits (priests), the Kshatriyas fought battles, the Vaishyas undertook farming and trade and the Shudras worked to serve the- above mentioned three Varnas.
Answer in One Word to One Sentence:
Question 1.
What do you mean by the Vedic literature?
Answer:
The Vedic literature means the literature written by the Aryans.
Question 2.
In which language the Vedic literature was written?
Answer:
Sanskrit.
Question 3.
How many parts does the Vedic literature has?
Answer:
Two parts.
Question 4.
At what of time the Vedas were written?
Answer:
1500-600 BC.
Question 5.
Who composed the Vedas?
Answer:
The Vedas were composed by the Rishis as divine ordinance.
Question 6.
What does ‘Shruti’ mean?
Answer:
‘Shruti’ implies that part of Vedic literature which the Rishis composed at the instance of divine revelation.
Question 7.
What is meant by ‘Smriti’?
Answer:
Smriti form that part of Vedic literature which the Rishis created out of their personal understanding of the world.
Question 8.
What is meant by the Veda?
Answer:
Reservoir of knowledge.
Question 9.
Give the number of the Vedas.
Answer:
Four.
Question 10.
Who classified the four Vedas?
Answer:
‘Rishi’ Ved Vyasa Ji.
Question 11.
Mention the name of the Vedas.
Or
Write the names of four Vedas.
Answer:
The Rigveda, the Samaveda, the Yajurveda and the Atharvaveda.
Question 12.
Which is the most ancient and important Veda?
Answer:
Rigveda.
Question 13.
When was the Rigveda composed?
Answer:
1500 to 1000 BC.
Question 14.
How many Suktas does the Rigveda contain?
Answer:
1028 Suktas.
Question 15.
How many Mandals does the Rigveda contain?
Answer:
Ten Mandals.
Question 16.
Write the total number of hymns given in the Rigveda.
Or
How many Mantras does the Rigveda contains?
Answer:
10,552 Mantras.
Question 17.
To which deity the largest number of Mantras have been dedicated in the Rigveda?
Answer:
Lord Indra.
Question 18.
How many Mantras in the Rigveda have been dedicated to Lord Indra?
Answer:
250 Mantras.
Question 19.
Mention the names of Rishis whose Mantras are given in the Rigveda.
Or
Mention any two Rishis whose Mantras the Rigveda contains.
Answer:
- Vamadeva,
- Vishvamitra.
Question 20.
Mention the name of women whose Mantras find space in the Rigveda.
Or
Tell the name of any two women who have contributed Mantras to Rigveda.
Answer:
- Apala,
- Ghosha.
Question 21.
The Gayatri Mantra finds mention in which Veda?
Answer:
Rigveda.
Question 22.
Which Veda is considered the source of Indian music?
Answer:
Samaveda.
Question 23.
How many Mantras does the Samaveda contain?
Answer:
1875 Mantras.
Question 24.
By what name was the purohit (priest) addressed who recited Mantras?
Answer:
Udagatri.
Question 25.
Which Veda contains the Mantras recited at Yajna?
Answer:
Yajurveda.
Question 26.
How was the priest offering sacrifice at the time of Yajna addressed?
Answer:
Hotri.
Question 27.
In what two parts Yajurveda is divided?
Answer:
- Shukla Yajurveda,
- Krishna Yajurveda.
Question 28.
Which was the last Veda to be composed?
Answer:
Atharvaveda.
Question 29.
How many Suktas does the Atharvaveda has?
Answer:
731 Suktas.
Question 30.
Which Veda contains Mantras related to black magic?
Answer:
Atharvaveda.
Question 31.
Mention two Vedas which formed part of tri-vidya.
Answer:
- The Rigveda,
- The Samaveda.
Question 32.
Why were the Brahmanas composed?
Answer:
To simplify the understanding of the Vedas.
Question 33.
Mention any two Brahmanas compositions.
Answer:
- Aitreya Brahmana,
- Taittiriya Brahmana.
Question 34.
Name the hooks enunciating the code of conduct for those ascetics who lived in the forests.
Answer:
Aranayakas.
Question 35.
What is meant by Vedangas?
Answer:
Constituent of the Veda.
Question 36.
Mention any two Vedangas.
Answer:
- Shiksha,
- Kalpa.
Question 37.
Which Vedanga reflects socio-religio customs of the Aryans?
Answer:
Kalpa Vedanga.
Question 38.
Name any two Sutras.
Answer:
- Srauta Sutra,
- Griha Sutra.
Question 39.
How many are the Upvedas?
Answer:
Four.
Question 40.
Mention any two of the Upvedas.
Answer:
- Ayurveda,
- Dhanurveda.
Question 41.
Which Veda describes about medicines and herbs?
Answer:
Atharavaveda.
Question 42.
Mention the name of Upveda that describes the art of war.
Answer:
Dhanurveda.
Question 43.
On whcih subject the Gandharvaveda throws light?
Answer:
Art of music.
Question 44.
Who composed the Yoga Shastra?
Answer:
Patanjali.
Question 45.
Mention any two Shastras.
Answer:
Yoga Shastra and Nyaya Shastra.
Question 46.
Mention two great epics of India.
Answer:
- The Ramayana,
- The Mahabharata.
Question 47.
Which is the greatest epic of India?
Answer:
Mahabharata.
Question 48.
Who composed Mahabharata?
Answer:
Maharishi Ved Vyasa Ji.
Question 49.
The Mahabharata consists of how many shlokas?
Answer:
The Mahabharata contains one lakh shlokas.
Question 50.
Who composed the Ramayana?
Answer:
Maharishi Valmiki Ji.
Question 51.
Give the number of shlokas in the Ramayana.
Answer:
24,000 shlokas.
Question 52.
Mention any two main subjects of the Vedic literature.
Answer:
- What is self?
- Rita and Dharman.
Question 53.
How many gods are mentioned in the Rigveda?
Answer:
33.
Question 54.
Which Sukta of the Rigveda mentions about the origin of the world?
Answer:
Nasdia Sukta of the Rigveda describes about the origin of the world.
Question 55.
What according to the Vedic literature is the ultimate aim of human life?
Answer:
The attainment of Moksha.
Question 56.
Which Sukta of the Rigveda mentions about four castes?
Answer:
Purusha Sukta.
Fill in the Blanks:
1. Vedas are …………… in number.
Answer:
four
2. The ………….. is the oldest and the most important veda.
Answer:
Rigveda
3. The Rigveda contains a total of …………… Suktas.
Answer:
1028
4. The Samaveda is also called ………….. Granth.
Answer:
Gaayan
5. The …………… contains the mantras recited at Yegna.
Answer:
Yajurveda
6. The …………… contains the dscription of herbal medicine used to cure diseases.
Answer:
Atharvaveda
7. The Upanishads are ………….. in number.
Answer:
108
8. The Vedangas imply a part of …………
Answer:
Vedas
9. The Vedangas are …………… in number.
Answer:
six
10. The ………….. describes the art of fighting battles.
Answer:
Dhanurveda
11. The ………….. throws light on the subjects pertaining to music.
Answer:
Gandharvaveda
12. The writer of the Yoga Shastra was …………..
Answer:
Patanjali.
13. The name of the author of the Nyaya Shastra was ………….
Answer:
Gautama
14. The Ramayana was written by ……………..
Answer:
Maharishi Valmiki Ji
15. The Mahabharata was composed by ……………
Answer:
Maharishi Ved Vyasa Ji
16. The priest who offered the sacrifice at the time of Yajna was adressed as ……………..
Answer:
Hotri
True Or False:
1. The Rigvedic literature is also called Saruti.
Answer:
True
2. The Vedas are eight in number.
Answer:
False
3. The Rigveda is oldest and important Veda of the Aryans.
Answer:
True
4. The Vedas were written in Pali language.
Answer:
False
5. Maharishi Ved Vyasa Ji classified the Vedas.
Answer:
True
6. The Rigveda has been divided into 10 mandals.
Answer:
True
7. Maximum number of mantras are in praise of Agni in the Rigveda.
Answer:
False
8. Udagatri were those priests who recited mantras.
Answer:
True
9. The Yajurveda is the Veda which contains the mantras recited at the time of Yajnas.
Answer:
True
10. The Atharvaveda is also known as the Brahamaveda.
Answer:
True
11. The Brahmanas are part of the Upanishads.
Answer:
False
12. The Upanishads are total 108 in number.
Answer:
True
13. The Kalpa Vedanga is the most important Vedanga.
Answer:
True
14. The Dharma Sutra gives a description of prevalent laws and traditions of the Maurayan period.
Answer:
False
15. There are four Upvedas.
Answer:
True
16. The Ayurveda describes the art of war.
Answer:
False
17. Rishi Kapila is the author of Sankhya Shastra.
Answer:
True
18. The Ramayana was composed by Maharishi Valmiki Ji.
Answer:
True
19. The Mahabharata consists of 24000 shlokas.
Answer:
False
20. The attainment of Moksha is the ultimate aim of human life according to Vedic literature.
Answer:
True
Multiple Choice Questions:
1. In which language the Vedic literature was written?
(a) Pah
(b) Prakrit
(c) Hindi
(d) Sanskrit
Answer:
(d) Sanskrit
2. What is the total number of Vedas?
(a) 4
(b) 5
(c) 6
(d) 18
Answer:
(a) 4
3. By which Rishi Vedas were divided?
(a) Ved Vyasa
(b) Vissh
(c) Vishwamitra
(d) Gautam
Answer:
(a) Ved Vyasa
4. Which of the following is the oldest and Important Veda?
(a) The Rigveda
(b) The Samaveda
(c) The Yajurveda
(d) The Atharvaveda
Answer:
(a) The Rigveda
5. Which of the following is not a Veda?
(a) The Gandharva Veda
(b) The Samaveda
(c) The Yajurveda
(d) The Atharvaveda
Answer:
(a) The Gandharva Veda
6. How many suktas are there in the Rigveda?
(a) 1028
(b) 1875
(c) 731
(d) 10,552
Answer:
(a) 1028
7. Which of the following Veda is not in the Tri-vedya?
(a) The Atharvaveda
(b) The Yajurveda
(c) The Samaveda
(d) The Rigveda.
Answer:
(a) The Atharvaveda
8. Which Veda contains the Mantras recited at Yajna?
(a) The Rigveda
(b) The Samaveda
(c) The Yajurveda
(d) The Atharvaveda
Answer:
(c) The Yajurveda
9. The Aranyakas are part of which literature?
(a) The Upanishads
(b) The Brahmanas
(c) The Dharmashastras
(d) The Mahabharta
Answer:
(b) The Brahmanas
10. What is the total number of the Upanishads?
(a) 18
(b) 108
(c) 48
(d) 128
Answer:
(b) 108
11. Which of the following Upavedas describes medicinal herbs?
(a) Ayurveda
(b) Dhanurveda
(c) Gandharvaveda
(d) Shilpaveda
Answer:
(a) Ayurveda
12. Which of the following composes Yoga Shastra?
(a) Kapila
(b) Patanjali
(c) Gautama
(d) Vyasa
Answer:
(b) Patanjali
13. Who composed The Ramayana?
(a) Maharishi Ved Vyasa Ji
(b) MaharishiValmiki Ji
(c) Maharishi Vishwamitra Ji
(d) Maharishi Gautama Ji
Answer:
(b) MaharishiValmiki Ji
14. How many shlokas are there in the Ramayana?
(a) 14,000
(b) 20,000
(c) 24,000
(d) 26,000
Answer:
(c) 24,000
15. Who wrote the Mahabharta?
(a) Maharishi Ved Vyasa Ji
(b) Maharishi Balmiki Ji
(c) Maharishi Gautma Ji
(d) Maharishi Vashishtha Ji
Answer:
(a) Maharishi Ved Vyasa Ji