ICSE CLASS 9 HISTORY JAINISM AND BUDDHISM QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

A blog where you get different types of questions along with solutions for ICSE Class 9 Questions and Answers.

A.      MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS 

(i)                  Choose the correct answers from the given options:

1. Which term is used for the “Three Baskets” of the Buddhist sacred literature?
(a) Jataka
(b) Tripitaka
(c) Angas
(d) Dwadashangi
Ans. (b)

2. Apart from the Five Vows and general principles of Jainism, a Jain is also expected to possess knowledge of the __________ truths.
(a) Seven
(b) Five
(c) Ten
(d) Nine
Ans. (d)

3. The Jataka Tales provide information mainly about:
(a) Previous births of Buddha
(b) Socio-economic conditions
(c) Climatic conditions
(d) None of the above
Ans. (a)

4. Vardhamana Mahavira was the:
(a) Twenty-fourth Tirthankara
(b) Sixth Tirthankara
(c) First Tirthankara
(d) Tenth Tirthankara
Ans. (a)

5. Tirthankaras are:
(a) Saints preaching the doctrines of Hinduism
(b) Saints preaching the doctrines of Buddhism
(c) Saints preaching the doctrines of Jainism
(d) None of the above
Ans. (c)

6. The Jain religious texts were mainly written in:
(a) Local languages
(b) Prakrit
(c) Sanskrit
(d) Both (a) and (b)
Ans. (b)

7. Buddha’s decision to renounce worldly life was mainly influenced by:
(a) The Four Great Sights
(b) His marriage to a princess
(c) His desire to become an ascetic
(d) All of the above
Ans. (a)

8. Which of the following pairs is incorrect?
(a) Mahabhiskramana – The Great Renunciation
(b) Dharmachakrapravartana – Turning of the Wheel of Law
(c) Chaudharma – Four Noble Truths
(d) Ashtangika Marg – Eightfold Path
Ans. (c)

9. The members of the Buddhist monastic order are known as:
(a) Bhikshus and Bhikshunis
(b) Bikhu and Bikhani
(c) Sangha and Sanghi
(d) Vinaya and Vinayaka
Ans. (a)

10. Buddhist religious texts were primarily composed in:
(a) Sanskrit
(b) Pali
(c) Prakrit
(d) All of the above
Ans. (b)

11. Semi-circular solid domes are known as  _______, the living quarters of monks are called  _____, and  _____ refers to spacious rectangular halls used for prayer.

(a) Stupas, Viharas, Chaityas
(b) Viharas, Chaityas, Stupas
(c) Chaityas, Viharas, Stupas
(d) Stupas, Chaityas, Viharas

Ans. a

12. Which of the following vows refers to the practice of chastity?
(a) Asteya
(b) Ahimsa
(c) Aparigraha
(d) Brahmacharya
Ans. (d)

(ii)Read the two statements given below select the option that shows the correct relationship between (A) and (R):

1.
(A) Jainism and Buddhism arose as major religious reform movements during this period.
(R) In the sixth century BCE, traditional religious beliefs and practices were questioned by new sects.
(a) (R) contradicts (A)
(b) (R) correctly explains (A)
(c) (A) is correct but (R) is incorrect
(d) (A) and (R) are unrelated
Ans. (b)

2.
(A) The Angas and Upangas are Jain religious texts which were transmitted orally from teachers to students.
(R) The Tripitakas are the most important sacred texts of the Jain religion.
(a) (R) contradicts (A)
(b) (R) correctly explains (A)
(c) (A) is correct but (R) is incorrect
(d) (A) and (R) are unrelated
Ans. (c)

3.
(A) Jainism and Buddhism developed as a protest against excessive ritualism in existing religious practices.
(R) A large part of the Vedic literature was written in Sanskrit, which common people found difficult to understand.
(a) (R) contradicts (A)
(b) (R) correctly explains (A)
(c) (A) is correct but (R) is incorrect
(d) (A) and (R) are unrelated
Ans. (b)

4.
(A) Mahavira attained salvation at Pavapuri in present-day Bihar.
(R) Mahavira delivered his first sermon at the Deer Park in Sarnath near Varanasi.
(a) (R) contradicts (A)
(b) (R) correctly explains (A)
(c) (A) is correct but (R) is incorrect
(d) (A) and (R) are unrelated
Ans. (c)

5.
(A) Jains believe in Moksha, that is, freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
(R) According to Jainism, only good deeds can free a person from the cycle of life and death.
(a) (R) contradicts (A)
(b) (R) correctly explains (A)
(c) (A) is correct but (R) is incorrect
(d) (A) and (R) are unrelated
Ans. (c)

6.
(A) Mahavira preached his teachings in Prakrit, the language of the common people.
(R) Buddhist religious literature was composed mainly in the Pali language.
(a) (R) contradicts (A)
(b) (R) correctly explains (A)
(c) (A) is correct but (R) is incorrect
(d) (A) and (R) are unrelated
Ans. (d)

7.
(A) Jainism is based on the belief in the Nine Truths and the Three Jewels (Triratna).
(R) Buddhism is based on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
(a) (R) contradicts (A)
(b) (R) correctly explains (A)
(c) (A) is correct but (R) is incorrect
(d) (A) and (R) are unrelated
Ans. (d)

8.
(A) Hinayana Buddhists do not regard Buddha as God.
(R) Mahayana Buddhists consider Buddha as an incarnation of God.
(a) (R) contradicts (A)
(b) (R) correctly explains (A)
(c) (A) is correct but (R) is incorrect
(d) (A) and (R) are unrelated
Ans. (b)

9.
(A) Both Jainism and Buddhism rejected the authority of the Vedas.
(R) Buddhism followed the Middle Path while Jainism supported severe penance.
(a) (R) contradicts (A)
(b) (R) correctly explains (A)
(c) (A) is correct but (R) is incorrect
(d) (A) and (R) are unrelated
Ans. (d)

B.   SHORT QUESTIONS FOR ICSE CLASS 9 HISTORY JAINISM AND BUDHHISM QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:

Q1. What are the Angas in Jain scripture? What the Angas comprise of?

Ans. The disciples of Lord Mahavira compiled his teachings in 12 parts. These parts are called Angas. These Angas are sacred Jain texts that outline various aspects of Jainism, including:

          (i)Monastic codes and rituals

          (ii)Guidelines for householders

          (iii)Principles of self-discipline

          (iv)Philosophical teachings on Karma and liberation

Q2. What do the Tripitakas refer to in Budhhism? What are the 3 main baskets of the Tripitakas?

Ans. The Tripitakas are sacred Budhhist scriptures. They contain the core teachings of Budhhism and are considered essential for understanding the faith.

           The 3 main baskets of the Tripitakas are:

            The Vinaya Pitaka, The Sutla Pitaka, The Abhidhamma Pitaka

Q3. What two factors contributed to the rise of Jainism and Budhhism?

Ans. Two factors that contributed to the rise of Jainism and Budhhism are:

           (i)Reaction against complex Vedic rituals

           (ii)Dissatisfaction with priestly dominance

Q4. What is the significance of Vardhamana Mahavira’s name? Who was he in Jainism?

Ans. ‘Vardhamana’ means one who grows or increases in spiritual strength. ‘Mahavira’ means “Great hero” or “Great Warrior” against passions and ignorance. The 24^th Jain Tirthankara, Vardhamana Mahavira preached the principles of non-violence, self-control, and liberation.

Q5. What are the 4 key vows observed by Jains?

Ans. The 4 vows are:

           (i)Ahimsa – Avoid harming living beings

           (ii)Aparigraha – Detach from material possessions

           (iii)Satya – Speak the truth

           (iv)Achaurya or Asteya – Donot take anything that is not given

Q6. What do the “Three Jewels” or Triratnas signify in Jainism?

 Ans. The Triratnas or Three Jewels in Jainism are the three guiding principles that lead a person to liberation. They are:

            (i) Right Faith (Samyak Darshan) – having true belief in the teachings of the Tirthankaras.

            (ii) Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyan) – gaining correct understanding of reality.

            (iii) Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra) – living a life based on non-violence and moral discipline.

            Together, these three form the foundation of Jain philosophy and the path to attain moksha (salvation).

Q7. Mention any two reasons that helped Jainism spread in India.

Ans. (i)Simple Teachings: Jainism taught simple principles like truth, non-violence, and honesty, which were easy for common people to follow.

           (ii)Royal Support: Several rulers and wealthy merchants, such as King Chandragupta Maurya and Kharavela of Kalinga, supported Jainism and helped in its spread through donations and construction of           temples.

Q8. Into which two sects did Jainism divide, and why were they given these names?

Ans. Jainism divided into two sects — Digambaras and Svetambaras.Digambaras (meaning “sky-clad”) were so called because their monks did not wear clothes, believing this showed complete renunciation.Svetambaras (meaning “white-clad”) got their name because their monks wore simple white garments.

Q9. Give any two reasons why Jainism did not gain a large number of followers.

Ans. (i)Strict Rules: Jainism demanded severe self-discipline, fasting, and renunciation, which were difficult for ordinary people to follow.

           (ii)Use of Prakrit Language: Jain teachings were mainly preached in Prakrit, which limited their understanding to certain regions and people, reducing wider appeal.

Q10. Who was Siddhartha Gautama, later known as the Buddha? In which place was he born?

 Ans. Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, was the founder of Buddhism. He was a great religious reformer who taught the way to attain enlightenment and end human suffering. He was born in Lumbini, near Kapilavastu, around 563 BCE.

Q11. What were the four significant sights that deeply influenced the life of Gautama Buddha?

 Ans. The Four Great Sights were the scenes that Siddhartha Gautama saw when he went outside his palace for the first time. They were:

           (i)An old man – showing the reality of aging.

           (ii)A sick person – revealing human suffering.

           (iii)A dead body – teaching the truth of mortality.

            (iv)A holy ascetic – symbolizing renunciation and the path to peace.

          These sights made him realize the impermanence of worldly pleasures and inspired him to seek enlightenment.

Q12. Describe how Gautama Buddha attain enlightenment.

Ans. After spending several years travelling and practising severe penance in search of truth, Gautama Buddha finally sat down in deep meditation beneath a peepul (Bodhi) tree at Bodh Gaya. He made a firm resolve not to leave his seat until he discovered the real cause of human suffering and the means to overcome it. After forty-nine days of uninterrupted meditation, he attained Enlightenment (Bodhi).

Q13. What are the Four Noble Truths taught by Gautama Buddha?

 Ans. The Four Noble Truths form the core of Buddha’s teachings. They are:

   (i)Dukkha – Life is full of suffering and sorrow.

   (ii)Samudaya – Desire and attachment are the main causes of suffering.

   (iii) Nirodha – Suffering can end by overcoming desire.

    (iv)Magga – The way to end suffering is by following the Eightfold Path.

These truths guide followers toward peace, wisdom, and ultimately nirvana (liberation).

  Q14. Mention any four principles of the Eightfold Path taught by Buddha.

    Ans. The Eightfold Path shows the way to end suffering and attain enlightenment. Four of its main principles are:

       (i)Right Speech – speaking truthfully and kindly.

       (ii)Right Action – behaving morally and avoiding harm to others.

       (iii) Right Livelihood – earning a living through honest and non-violent means.

        (iv)Right Effort – giving up evil thoughts and developing good ones.

      These steps help a person live a balanced and righteous life.

     Q15. At which event did Buddha deliver his first sermon at Sarnath, and what does the name of this event literally mean?

       Ans. Buddha’s first sermon at Sarnath is called the “Dharmachakra Pravartana.” The literal meaning of this term is “Turning the Wheel of Law.” It signifies the beginning of Buddha’s teaching mission. He set in motion the principles of Dharma for the first time.

      Q16. Mention any two rules or principles that guided the Buddhist monastic community (Sangha).

        Ans. Two important principles that governed the Sangha were:

           (i)Celibacy and Renunciation – Monks and nuns had to give up worldly life and live a life of chastity.

           (ii)Obedience to the Rules – Members had to follow the Vinaya, the code of conduct laid down by Buddha, which included discipline, honesty, and non-violence.

        Q17. Mention any two aspects of Buddhism that drew people to follow it.

          Ans. (i)Message of Equality: Buddhism rejected caste distinctions and promoted equality, which appealed to people from all sections of society.

                    (ii)Simple and Practical Teachings: Its teachings on moderation, non-violence, and the Eightfold Path were easy to understand and follow in daily life.

           Q18. Mention any two reasons that led to the decline of Buddhism in India.

             Ans. (i)Revival of Hinduism: Hinduism absorbed many Buddhist ideas and practices, reducing Buddhism’s distinct appeal.

                        (ii)Foreign Invasions: Invasions by Turkish rulers destroyed many Buddhist monasteries and centers of learning, weakening the religion in India.

C.      STRUCTURED QUESTIONS FOR ICSE CLASS 9 HISTORY JAINISM AND BUDHHISM QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:

Q1. Referring to the literary sources that provide information on Jainism and Buddhism, explain the importance of the following:
(a) Angas
(b) Tripitakas
(c) Jatakas

Ans.  (a)The Angas are the earliest and most authoritative sacred texts of Jainism.
Their importance lies in the following points:

• They contain the teachings and sermons of the Tirthankaras, especially Mahavira.
• They explain Jain principles such as ahimsa, karma, rebirth, and the path to liberation.
• The Angas also describe the conduct and duties of monks and lay followers, helping historians understand early Jain religious practices.

 (b) The Tripitakas form the main body of Buddhist scriptures. Their significance is:

• They preserve the original teachings of Gautama Buddha, delivered over 2,500 years ago.
• The three “baskets”—Vinaya Pitaka, Sutta Pitaka, and Abhidhamma Pitaka—provide information on monastic rules, Buddha’s sermons, and philosophical interpretations.
• They are valuable sources for understanding the development of Buddhism, monastic life, and early Buddhist communities.

(c) The Jatakas are stories describing the previous births of Buddha. Their historical importance is:

• They provide insight into the life, character, and virtues practiced by Buddha in earlier incarnations.
• The stories reflect the social life, beliefs, morals, and customs of ancient India.
• They are useful literary sources for understanding early Buddhist ideas and the moral teachings that shaped Buddhist culture.

Q2. In the context of the rise of Jainism and Buddhism in the 6th century BCE, answer the following:
(a) Describe briefly the socio-economic conditions in India during the 6th century BCE.
(b) Mention any three factors that led to the emergence of Jainism and Buddhism.
(c) What circumstances resulted in Jainism splitting into two distinct sects?

 (a) Socio-economic conditions in 6th century BCE

During the 6th century BCE, Indian society was undergoing major changes, both economically and socially:

1. Rise of new cities and trade:
   Urban centres such as Rajagriha, Vaishali, and Pataliputra emerged. This growth of trade created a prosperous merchant class.
2. Use of iron tools:
   Iron technology improved agriculture. Surplus production supported population growth and urbanization.
3. Rigid caste system:
   Society had become divided and unequal. The lower castes suffered severe discrimination and were denied social and religious rights.
4. Dominance of Brahmins:
   The priestly class controlled religious practices. Expensive sacrifices and rituals became burdensome for the common people.

These conditions created dissatisfaction and encouraged people to welcome simpler, more accessible religions.

(b) Three reasons that gave rise to Jainism and Buddhism

1. Reaction against rituals:
   The Vedic religion had become highly ritualistic, expensive, and complicated. People wanted a simpler faith.
2. Opposition to caste system:
   Jainism and Buddhism rejected caste distinctions, which attracted lower castes and common people.
3. Rise of merchant class:
   Traders preferred religions that emphasized ethical conduct rather than costly rituals. Both Jainism and Buddhism suited their needs.

(c) Causes for the division of Jainism into two sects

Jainism eventually split into two major sects—Digambaras and Svetambaras—due to the following reasons:

1. Difference over monastic discipline:
   One group believed monks should not wear clothes (Digambaras), while another allowed simple white garments (Svetambaras).
2. Migration during the famine:
   A 12-year famine in Magadha caused many monks to migrate south under the leadership of Bhadrabahu. Those who stayed behind relaxed strict rules, causing doctrinal differences.
3. Disagreement over sacred texts:
   The group in the south believed the original teachings were lost, while those in the north compiled new versions. This deepened the divide.

Q3. In the context of Jainism, answer the following:
(a) Who was Mahavira, and why did he come to be known as ‘Jina’?

(b)What are the five vows that a Jain householder is required to observe?

(c)Explain the Jain belief regarding Karma and the attainment of Salvation.

Ans.

• Mahavira was the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. He was born in 599 BCE at Kundagrama into the Kshatriya family of the Nayas. Renouncing worldly life at the age of 30, he practiced intense meditation and severe penance in search of spiritual truth. He came to be known as ‘Jina’, which means the conqueror, because he successfully conquered his desires, passions, and worldly attachments. Through deep meditation, he attained Kaivalya (perfect knowledge), achieving complete victory over ignorance and karma. His followers were therefore called Jains, meaning disciples of the Jina.

 (b) A Jain householder is expected to observe five basic vows, though in a milder form compared to monks. These vows guide a moral and disciplined life:

1. Ahimsa (Non-violence): Avoid causing injury to any living being, whether through words, thoughts, or actions.
2. Satya (Truthfulness): Speak only what is true and beneficial. Avoid falsehood and harmful speech.
3. Asteya (Non-stealing): Do not take anything that is not willingly given by the owner.
4. Brahmacharya (Chastity): Lead a life of purity and control over desires. For householders, it means faithfulness.
5. Aparigraha (Non-possession): Limit attachment to wealth and material goods, and practise simplicity in life.

(c) According to Jain philosophy, karma is a subtle form of matter that attaches itself to the soul because of one’s actions—whether good or bad.

• Every thought, word, or deed creates karma.
• Karma binds the soul and keeps it trapped in the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara).
• To attain purity, one must stop new karma from entering the soul and destroy the karma that is already attached.

Salvation in Jainism means liberation of the soul from the cycle of birth and death.

• It is achieved when all karmic matter is shed through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (the Three Jewels).
• Strict discipline, non-violence, meditation, and renunciation help in destroying karma.
• Once liberated, the soul rises to the Siddhashila, the eternal abode of free souls.

Q4. With reference to Buddhism, answer the following:
(a) Who was Gautama Buddha, and how did he attain enlightenment?
(b) What is meant by ‘Dharmachakrapravartana’?
(c) Why did Buddhism attract a large number of followers?

Ans.

 (a) Gautama Buddha, originally named Siddhartha, was a prince of the Shakya clan, born in 563 BCE at Lumbini. Although raised in luxury, he was deeply moved by the sufferings of life. At the age of 29, he renounced worldly life in search of truth—a journey called the Great Renunciation. After years of meditation and severe austerities, he finally sat under a Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya. He was determined not to rise until he found the truth. Through deep concentration and self-reflection, he realised the causes of human suffering and the path to overcome it. At the age of 35, he attained Enlightenment (Bodhi) and became the Buddha, meaning the “Enlightened One.”

(b) Dharmachakrapravartana literally means “Turning of the Wheel of Law.”
It refers to the first sermon delivered by Buddha at Sarnath after his enlightenment. In this sermon, he explained the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, laying the foundation of Buddhist teachings. This event marks the beginning of Buddha’s mission to spread his doctrine.

• Buddha gained a large following because his teachings were simple, practical, and appealing to all sections of society:
• Rejection of caste system:
  Buddhism offered equality and dignity to all, including lower castes.
• Simple teachings:
  His message of compassion, morality, and the Middle Path was easy to understand.
• No rituals or priestly domination:
  People were freed from expensive sacrifices and ritual complexities.
• Support from rulers and traders:
  Kings like Bimbisara and later Ashoka promoted Buddhism, helping it spread quickly.
• Active role of monks:
  Buddhist monks travelled widely, preaching and setting up monasteries that became centres of learning.

These features made Buddhism a popular and accessible religion for the masses.

Q5. Buddhism spread peacefully and gained wide influence without the use of force. In this context, answer the following:
(a) What central truth of Buddha’s philosophy applies to all human beings, and what path did he prescribe for attaining salvation?
(b) How did Buddhism influence the socio-religious life of the people?
(c) What part did the Sangha play in the spread of Buddhism?

Ans.

• Buddha’s philosophy is centred on the idea that suffering (Dukkha) is an inseparable part of human life. Everyone experiences old age, disease, sorrow, and death, and this makes suffering universal.

Buddha explained this through the Four Noble Truths, which identify:

1. Life is full of suffering (Dukkha).
2. Desire and ignorance are the causes of suffering.
3. Suffering can end by eliminating desire.
4. There is a path to end suffering.

Mechanism to attain salvation

Buddha taught that salvation (Nirvana) can be achieved by following the Eightfold Path, which includes:

• Right Understanding
• Right Thought
• Right Speech
• Right Action
• Right Livelihood
• Right Effort
• Right Mindfulness
• Right Concentration

This path promotes ethical living, mental discipline, and wisdom, helping one overcome desire and ignorance.
When desire is destroyed, the soul is freed from rebirth and attains Nirvana.

(b) Impact of Buddhism on the socio-religious life of the people:

1. Rejection of caste distinctions:
   Buddhism promoted equality and broke the rigidity of the caste system, offering dignity to lower social groups.
2. Emphasis on morality:
   The focus on compassion, truth, non-violence, and right conduct helped raise ethical standards in society.
3. Simplification of religion:
   Buddhism removed complex rituals and sacrifices. Religion became more accessible to ordinary people.
4. Growth of education and learning:
   Monasteries (viharas) became centres of education, promoting learning in philosophy, medicine, art, and literature.
5. Development of art and architecture:
   Buddhist stupas, chaityas, and monasteries greatly enriched India’s cultural heritage.

Thus, Buddhism reshaped social behaviour and brought reform to religious practices in ancient India.

(c) The Sangha, or the Buddhist monastic community, played a crucial role in spreading Buddha’s teachings:

1. Organisation of monks and nuns:
   The Sangha provided a disciplined community dedicated to preaching and practising Buddhism.
2. Missionary work:
   Monks travelled from place to place spreading Buddha’s message in simple languages like Prakrit, making it easy for common people to understand.
3. Establishment of monasteries:
   These viharas served as centres of learning, meditation, and teaching. They attracted students, travellers, and rulers.
4. Support from kings and merchants:
   The Sangha gained patronage from rulers such as Bimbisara, Ajatashatru, and later Ashoka, which helped Buddhism spread across regions.
5. Public contact and social service:
   Monks regularly interacted with people, offering guidance, education, and moral instruction, increasing the religion’s popularity.

Through these efforts, the Sangha helped Buddhism spread peacefully across India and many parts of Asia.