Comprehensive Jainism MCQs: 48+ Questions and Answers
Important points table to help you solve the MCQs on Jainism:
| Aspect of Jainism | Important Points | Significant Years |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Founded by Lord Mahavira | 6th century B.C. |
| Tirthankaras | 24 spiritual teachers (Tirthankaras) | Rishabnatha was the first |
| Cause of Origin | Reaction against rigid Hinduism and Brahmanas | - |
| Promotion of non-violence and austerity | - | |
| Tenets | Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada, Syadvada, Karma | - |
| Principles: Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Action (Three Jewels or Triratna) | - | |
| Five Doctrines | Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Aparigraha, Brahmacharya | - |
| Vardhamana Mahavira | 24th Tirthankara, born in 540 B.C. | - |
| Achieved spiritual knowledge (Kaivalya) at 42 years | - | |
| Sects/Schools | Digambara, Svetambara | Division during famine |
| Jain Literature/Texts | Agamas, Non-agam Literature | - |
| Jain Architecture | Influenced by Hindu and Buddhist styles | - |
| Jain Councils | First Jain Council (3rd century B.C.) | - |
| Second Jain Council (512 A.D.) | - | |
| Spread of Jainism | Gradually into West and South India | - |
| Influence on Chandragupta Maurya and Kharavela | - | |
| Contribution of Jainism | Reform of the varna system | - |
| Growth of Prakrit and Kannada languages | - | |
| Contributions to architecture and literature | - | |
| Different from Buddhism | Belief in gods, acceptance of varna system | - |
| Emphasis on non-violence, truth, and austerity | - | |
| Relevance Today | Promotion of tolerance, freedom, and non-violence | - |
| Countering violence, terrorism, and consumerism | - | |
| Addressing environmental issues | - |
1. What is the central principle of Jainism that emphasizes non-violence and compassion towards all living beings?
[A] Karma
[B] Varna
[C] Ahimsa
[D] Samsara
Answer: [C] Ahimsa
Explanation: Ahimsa is a core principle in Jainism, promoting non-violence and non-injury to all living creatures. It is one of the fundamental tenets of the Jain faith.
2. Who is considered the 24th and last Tirthankara of Jainism, who lived in the 6th century BCE?
[A] Lord Rishabnatha
[B] Siddhartha Gautama
[C] Lord Krishna
[D] Lord Mahavira
Answer: [D] Lord Mahavira
Explanation: Lord Mahavira is the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, and he is recognized as the most significant figure in Jain history. He lived in the 6th century BCE.
3. Which key philosophical concept in Jainism emphasizes the acceptance of diverse and often contradictory viewpoints?
[A] Varna
[B] Anekantavada
[C] Syadvada
[D] Karma
Answer: [B] Anekantavada
Explanation: Anekantavada is a crucial concept in Jainism that highlights the complexity of truth and encourages the acceptance of multiple, diverse, and contradictory viewpoints.
4. What is the primary practice advocated in Jainism for the attainment of liberation and spiritual purity?
[A] Rituals and sacrifices
[B] Meditation and prayer
[C] Living a life of non-violence and austerity
[D]Offering sacrifices to gods
Answer: [C] Living a life of non-violence and austerity
Explanation: Jainism emphasizes living a life of non-violence (ahimsa) and austerity as the path to spiritual purity and liberation, rather than rituals or sacrifices.
5. Which sect of Jainism believes in complete nudity for male monks and holds that women cannot achieve liberation?
[A] Svetambara
[B] Digambara
[C] Terapantha
[D] Bisapantha
Answer: [B] Digambara
Explanation: The Digambara sect of Jainism believes in complete nudity for male monks and holds the belief that women cannot achieve liberation.
6. What is the Jain doctrine that prescribes five fundamental principles, including non-injury and non-stealing?
[A] Five Pillars
[B] Eightfold Path
[C] Five Doctrines
[D] Ten Commandments
Answer: [C] Five Doctrines
Explanation: Jainism's Five Doctrines encompass principles like Ahimsa (non-injury) and Asteya (non-stealing) as core ethical guidelines for followers.
7. Which Jain text outlines the fundamental principles of the faith and is often attributed to Lord Mahavira?
[A] Tripitaka
[B] Vedas
[C] Agamas
[D] Quran
Answer: [C] Agamas
Explanation: The Jain Agamas are considered sacred texts that contain the teachings and principles of Jainism.
8. Who was the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, born in Kundagrama, who renounced his home and achieved spiritual knowledge at the age of 42?
[A] Lord Rishabnatha
[B] Lord Krishna
[C] Lord Mahavira
[D] Lord Buddha
Answer: [C] Lord Mahavira
Explanation: Lord Mahavira was born in Kundagrama and renounced his home to become a Jain ascetic, achieving spiritual knowledge at the age of 42.
9. Which Jain sect allows its monks to wear white clothes and believes that women can achieve liberation?
[A] Digambara
[B] Svetambara
[C] Terapantha
[D] Murtipujaka
Answer: [B] Svetambara
Explanation: The Svetambara sect of Jainism allows its monks to wear white clothes and does not hold gender-based restrictions on liberation.
10. Jainism's central principle of non-violence, Ahimsa, finds relevance in addressing what modern global issue?
[A] Climate change and global warming
[B] Space exploration and colonization
[C] Nuclear disarmament
[D] International trade and economics
Answer: [A] Climate change and global warming
Explanation: The principle of Ahimsa, which promotes non-violence and compassion, can be applied to address global issues like climate change by advocating for sustainable and non-harming practices.
11. What is the term for the 24 great teachers in Jainism who have attained spiritual knowledge (Moksha) and preached it to the people?
[A] Gurus
[B] Tirthankaras
[C] Rishis
[D] Brahmins
Answer: [B] Tirthankaras
Explanation:Tirthankaras are the 24 great teachers in Jainism who have achieved spiritual knowledge and guide followers on the path to liberation.
12. In Jainism, what term is used for the theory that all judgments are conditional and valid only in specific conditions or circumstances?
[A] Anekantavada
[B] Syadvada
[C] Dvaita
[D] Advaita
Answer: [B] Syadvada
Explanation: Syadvada is the concept in Jainism that all judgments are conditional and apply only in certain conditions, circumstances, or senses.
13. Which of the following is one of the Five Doctrines of Jainism, emphasizing celibacy and continence?
[A] Satya
[B] Ahimsa
[C] Brahmacharya
[D] Asteya
Answer: [C] Brahmacharya
Explanation: Brahmacharya is one of the Five Doctrines of Jainism, promoting celibacy and continence.
14. Which Jain sect believes that female monks should wear unstitched plain white sarees and follows all five vows, including celibacy?
[A] Mula Sangh
[B] Terapantha
[C] Sthanakvasi
[D] Digambara
Answer: [D] Digambara
Explanation: The Digambara sect of Jainism believes that female monks should wear unstitched plain white sarees and follows all five vows, including celibacy.
15. Which famous Jain temple in Rajasthan is known for its exquisite marble architecture and intricate carvings?
[A] Mount Abu Temple
[B] Shravanabelagola Temple
[C] Dilwara Temple
[D] Palitana Temple
Answer: [C] Dilwara Temple
Explanation: Dilwara Temple in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, is renowned for its exquisite marble architecture and intricate carvings.
16. What is the Jain doctrine that prescribes three principles called Three Jewels, including Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Action?
[A] Triratna
[B] Five Doctrines
[C] Panchakalyanaka
[D] Trikaladarsana
Answer: [A] Triratna
Explanation: Triratna in Jainism consists of three principles: Right Faith (Samyakdarshana), Right Knowledge (Samyakjnana), and Right Action (Samyakcharita).
17. Which historical figure, who was also a Mauryan Emperor, embraced Jainism and promoted it during his later years in Karnataka?
[A] Chandragupta Maurya
[B] Ashoka the Great
[C] Harsha
[D] Akbar the Great
Answer: [A] Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation:Chandragupta Maurya, the Mauryan Emperor, embraced Jainism during his later years and promoted it in Karnataka.
18. What is the term for the Jain monastic establishment or temples in Karnataka, where Jain monks and nuns reside and practice their faith?
[A] Basadis
[B] Ashrams
[C] Viharas
[D] Gurukuls
Answer: [A] Basadis
Explanation: Basadis are Jain monastic establishments or temples where Jain monks and nuns reside and practice their faith, particularly in Karnataka.
19. What was the primary reason for the division of Jainism into the Digambara and Svetambara sects?
[A] Differences in interpretation of the Agamas
[B] Conflict over the worship of Tirthankara statues
[C] Disagreements on the use of color in clothing
[D] A famine in Magadha that led to divergent practices
Answer: [D] A famine in Magadha that led to divergent practices
Explanation: The division of Jainism into the Digambara and Svetambara sects occurred due to differing practices during a famine in Magadha.
20. In Jainism, what term is used for the principle of non-acquisition, which promotes non-attachment to material possessions?
[A] Ahimsa
[B] Asteya
[C] Aparigraha
[D] Satya
Answer: [C] Aparigraha
Explanation: Aparigraha is the Jain principle of non-acquisition or non-possession, emphasizing non-attachment to material possessions.
21. Which Jain concept, also known as "the method of examining different probabilities," highlights that all judgments are conditional and context-dependent?
[A] Ahimsa
[B] Syadvada
[C] Anekantavada
[D] Triratna
Answer: [B] Syadvada
Explanation: Syadvada, also called "the method of examining different probabilities," underscores that all judgments are conditional and context-dependent.
22. Who presided over the first Jain Council held at Patliputra in the 3rd century BCE?
[A] Lord Mahavira
[B] Sthulbhadra
[C] Devardhi Kshmasramana
[D] Bhadrabahu
Answer: [B] Sthulbhadra
Explanation: Sthulbhadra presided over the first Jain Council held at Patliputra in the 3rd century BCE.
23. Which type of Jain structure is typically found in front of a temple and carries the image of a Tirthankara on top and on all four cardinal directions?
[A] Basadis
[B] Muktagiri
[C] Manastambha
[D] Layana/Gumphas
Answer: [C] Manastambha
Explanation: Manastambha is a structure typically found in front of a temple, featuring an ornamental pillar with the image of a Tirthankara on top and in all four cardinal directions.
24. What term is used for the non-canonical literature in Jainism, which includes commentaries, explanations, and independent works by scholars and ascetics?
[A] Agamas
[B] Anekantavada
[C] Non-agam Literature
[D] Panchakalyanaka
Answer: [C] Non-agam Literature
Explanation: Non-agam Literature in Jainism includes commentaries, explanations, and independent works written by scholars and ascetics, which are not part of the canonical Agamas.
25. What is the symbol associated with Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism?
[A] Lotus
[B] Lion
[C] Bull
[D] Serpent
Answer: [B] Lion
Explanation: The symbol associated with Lord Mahavira is a lion.
26. What is the primary purpose of the Digambara and Svetambara sects' differing practices regarding clothing for monks and nuns?
[A] Symbolic representation of humility and austerity
[B] Promotion of gender equality and women's liberation
[C] Different interpretations of Jain scriptures
[D] Response to a shortage of cloth during a famine
Answer: [D] Response to a shortage of cloth during a famine
Explanation: The different practices in clothing between the Digambara and Svetambara sects were primarily a response to a shortage of cloth during a famine in ancient India.
27. Which Jain temple in Karnataka is known for its colossal statue of Bahubali and is an important pilgrimage site for Jains?
[A] Dilwara Temple
[B] Shravanabelagola
[C] Palitana Temple
[D] Mount Abu Temple
Answer: [B] Shravanabelagola
Explanation: Shravanabelagola in Karnataka is famous for its colossal statue of Bahubali and is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains.
28. What does the term "Triratna" refer to in Jainism?
[A] Three sacred texts of Jainism
[B] Three main deities in Jain worship
[C] Three principles of Jain doctrine
[D] Three pilgrimage sites for Jains
Answer: [C] Three principles of Jain doctrine
Explanation: "Triratna" in Jainism refers to the three main principles of the Jain doctrine: Right Faith (Samyakdarshana), Right Knowledge (Samyakjnana), and Right Action (Samyakcharita).
29. Which historical Jain figure, known for embracing Jainism during his later years, is associated with the promotion of the religion in South India?
[A] Chandragupta Maurya
[B] Lord Mahavira
[C] Lord Rishabnatha
[D] Siddhartha Gautama
Answer: [A] Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation: Chandragupta Maurya, the historical figure and Mauryan Emperor, embraced Jainism during his later years and promoted the religion, particularly in South India.
30. What are "Basadis" in Jainism often used for?
[A] Jain monastic establishments
[B] Places of meditation and prayer
[C] Sites for public discourses
[D] Temples dedicated to Tirthankaras
Answer: [A] Jain monastic establishments
Explanation: "Basadis" in Jainism refer to Jain monastic establishments where Jain monks and nuns reside and practice their faith.
31. Which Jain concept emphasizes the spirit of intellectual and social tolerance, absence of dogmatism, and peaceful coexistence in the world?
[A] Ahimsa
[B] Aparigraha
[C] Anekantavada
[D] Triratna
Answer: [C] Anekantavada
Explanation: Anekantavada in Jainism promotes the acceptance of diverse viewpoints, intellectual tolerance, and peaceful coexistence in the world.
32. In Jainism, the principle of Aparigraha can be applied to address what modern global issue?
[A] Cybersecurity
[B] Human rights
[C] Overconsumption and materialism
[D] Climate change and global warming
Answer: [D] Climate change and global warming
Explanation: The Jain principle of Aparigraha, which promotes non-acquisition and non-attachment to material possessions, can be applied to address modern global issues like climate change by discouraging overconsumption and materialism.
33. What is the term for the simultaneous acceptance of multiple, diverse, and often contradictory viewpoints in Jainism?
[A] Anekantavada
[B] Syadvada
[C] Panchakalyanaka
[D] Paryushana
Answer: [A] Anekantavada
Explanation: Anekantavada in Jainism emphasizes the simultaneous acceptance of multiple, diverse, and often contradictory viewpoints.
34. Which Jain figure is associated with the Jain Council held at Vallabhi in 512 A.D., which led to the final compilation of Jain scriptures?
[A] Sthulbhadra
[B] Devardhi Kshmasramana
[C] Bhadrabahu
[D] Siddhartha Gautama
Answer: [B] Devardhi Kshmasramana
Explanation: The Jain Council held at Vallabhi in 512 A.D. was presided over by Devardhi Kshmasramana, and it led to the final compilation of Jain scriptures.
35. What term is used for Jain architecture that cannot be accredited with a style of its own and is often an offshoot of Hindu and Buddhist styles?
[A] Layana/Gumphas
[B] Jainalaya
[C] Terapantha
[D] Mula Sangh
Answer: [A] Layana/Gumphas
Explanation: Jain architecture, often an offshoot of Hindu and Buddhist styles, is referred to as Layana/Gumphas, which includes caves, temples, and other structures.
36. What term is used for Jain literature that consists of sacred texts that contain the teachings and principles of Jainism?
[A] Panchakalyanaka
[B] Tripitaka
[C] Agamas
[D] Puranas
Answer: [C] Agamas
Explanation: Agamas are the sacred texts in Jainism that contain the teachings and principles of the faith.
37. Which Jain symbol is associated with Lord Rishabnatha, the first Tirthankara of Jainism?
[A] Lotus
[B] Bull
[C] Serpent
[D] Lion
Answer: [B] Bull
Explanation: The symbol associated with Lord Rishabnatha, the first Tirthankara of Jainism, is a bull.
38. What term is used for Jain caves and rock-cut structures, which are an integral part of Jain architecture?
[A] Basadis
[B] Gumphas
[C] Jainalaya
[D] Manastambha
Answer: [B] Gumphas
Explanation: Gumphas refer to Jain caves and rock-cut structures, which are integral to Jain architecture.
39. What does the term "Sthulabhadra" represent in Jainism?
[A] A famous Jain temple in Gujarat
[B] A major Jain sect
[C] An exponent of the Svetambara sect
[D] A significant Jain council
Answer: [C] An exponent of the Svetambara sect
Explanation: Sthulabhadra was an exponent of the Svetambara sect in Jainism.
40. What is the concept of 'Samaiyapantha' or 'Taranpantha' related to in Jainism?
[A] Jain sects
[B] Jain scriptures
[C] Jain architecture
[D] Jain councils
Answer: [A] Jain sects
Explanation: Samaiyapantha or Taranpantha refers to different sects within Jainism that emerged due to historical events.
41. In Jainism, what is the belief that a person's birth in a specific varna is the result of their actions in a previous life?
[A] Anekantavada
[B] Karma
[C] Dharma
[D] Varna
Answer: b. Karma
Explanation: Jainism teaches that a person's birth in a particular varna is determined by their past actions and accumulated karma.
42. Which Jain doctrine emphasizes that the ultimate truth is complex and has multiple aspects, allowing for diverse and even contradictory viewpoints?
[A] Syadvada
[B] Varna
[C] Karma
[D] Anekantavada
Answer: d. Anekantavada
Explanation: Anekantavada is the Jain concept that highlights the complexity of ultimate truth and encourages the acceptance of multiple and diverse viewpoints.
43. The founder of Jainism, Lord Mahavira, is believed to have achieved enlightenment (kevala jnana) at what age?
[A] 16
[B] 30
[C] 42
[D] 50
Answer: c. 42
Explanation: Lord Mahavira is said to have attained kevala jnana, or supreme knowledge, at the age of 42.
44. What is the symbol associated with Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism?
[A] Swastika
[B] Lion
[C] Lotus
[D] Bull
Answer: b. Lion
Explanation: Lord Mahavira's symbol in Jainism is a lion, representing his strength and courage in the spiritual path.
45. The Jain doctrine of "Aparigraha" emphasizes what principle?
[A] Non-injury to living beings
[B] Truthfulness
[C] Non-acquisition or non-possession
[D] Celibacy
Answer: c. Non-acquisition or non-possession
Explanation: Aparigraha in Jainism encourages followers to avoid excessive possessions and to practice non-acquisition.
46. Which Jain council was held at Vallabhi in 512 A.D. and led to the final compilation of 12 Angas and 12 Upangas?
[A] First Jain Council
[B] Second Jain Council
[C] Third Jain Council
[D] Fourth Jain Council
Answer: b. Second Jain Council
Explanation: The Second Jain Council, held at Vallabhi in 512 A.D., led to the compilation of Jain scriptures.
47. Jainism's contribution to language and literature was significant, with a notable influence on which Indian language?
[A] Sanskrit
[B] Marathi
[C] Tamil
[D] Hindi
Answer: b. Marathi
Explanation: Jainism made significant contributions to Marathi literature and language.
48. The symbol associated with Lord Mahavira is a lion. Which Jain temple in Karnataka houses a famous statue of Lord Mahavira with a lion's emblem?
[A] Dilwara Temple
[B] Shravanabelagola
[C] Muktagiri Temple
[D] Mangi Tungi Cave
Answer: b. Shravanabelagola
Explanation: Shravanabelagola in Karnataka is known for its statue of Lord Bahubali (Gomateshwara), a Jain figure, with the lion emblem.
49. Which Jain monastic establishment or temple is known for the ornamental pillar structure called Manastambha, often carrying the image of Tirthankar on top?
[A] Dilwara Temple
[B] Girnar Temple
[C] Muktagiri Temple
[D] Basadis
Answer: d. Basadis
Explanation: Basadis are Jain monastic establishments or temples known for the ornamental pillar structure called Manastambha.
50. What is the concept of 'Samaiyapantha' or 'Taranpantha' related to in Jainism?
[A] Jain sects
[B] Jain scriptures
[C] Jain architecture
[D] Jain councils
Answer: a. Jain sects
Explanation: Samaiyapantha or Taranpantha refers to different sects within Jainism that emerged due to historical events.
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