UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2023

"Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of rocks, running water and many other natural objects not looked on as living by other religious sects." The above statement reflects one of the core beliefs of which one of the following religious sects of ancient India?

  1. Buddhism
  2. Jainism
  3. Shaivism
  4. Vaishnavism

Answer

Correct Answer

Jainism

Explanation

Jainism holds that souls (jiva) exist not only in animals and plants but also in earth, water, fire, air, and other elements—a core belief reflected in the statement.

Topics: history, jainism, jain philosophy, jiva