Indus Valley MCQs

Q31. Which Buddhist sect is associated with idol worship and devotional practices?

(A) Hinayana
(B) Mahayana
(C) Theravada
(D) Both A & C
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Correct Answer: (B) Mahayana
Notes:The Mahayana sect encourages idol worship and devotion to Bodhisattvas, unlike Theravada (Hinayana), which focuses more on individual enlightenment and does not emphasize image worship.

Q32. Which Buddhist sect is considered more conservative and closer to original teachings?

(A) Mahayana
(B) Hinayana
(C) Vajrayana
(D) Zen
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Correct Answer: (B) Hinayana
Notes: Hinayana (associated with Theravada) is considered more conservative, emphasizing strict adherence to the original teachings of Gautama Buddha and focusing on individual liberation.

Q33. Who was Amrapali in the context of Buddhism?

(A) Queen
(B) Nun
(C) Courtesan
(D) Disciple
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Correct Answer: (C) Courtesan
Notes: Amrapali was a famous courtesan of Vaishali who later became a follower of Gautama Buddha and embraced his teachings.

Q34. What is the main symbol representing the teachings of Buddhism?

(A) Lotus
(B) Wheel
(C) Lion
(D) Tree
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Correct Answer: (B) Wheel
Notes: The Dharmachakra (Wheel of Dharma) represents the teachings of Gautama Buddha and the path to enlightenment.

Q35. Which structure is a key Buddhist place of worship and relic veneration?

(A) Temple
(B) Mosque
(C) Stupa
(D) Church
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Correct Answer: (C) Stupa
Notes: A stupa is a sacred structure in Buddhism that enshrines relics of Gautama Buddha or monks. It serves as a place of worship, meditation, and devotion for followers.

Q36. The Buddhist text Milindapanho is attributed to which scholar?

(A) Nagarjuna
(B) Nagasena
(C) Ashoka
(D) Kanishka
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Correct Answer: (B) Nagasena
Notes: The Milindapañho is a Buddhist text where King Menander (Milinda) asks questions and monk Nagasena answers. Nagasena wrote it to explain ideas like self, rebirth, and enlightenment in simple ways. It is important because it connects Greek and Indian thought in Buddhist philosophy.

Q37. Who was King Milinda in the Buddhist text Milindapanho?

(A) Greek ruler
(B) Indian king
(C) Persian ruler
(D) Chinese ruler
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Correct Answer: (A) Greek ruler
Notes: King Milinda, identified as Menander I, was a Greek ruler of the Indo-Greek kingdom. In the Milindapañho, he engages in dialogue with monk Nagasena, asking philosophical questions about Buddhism. His role highlights the cultural exchange between Greek and Indian traditions during the Hellenistic period.

Q38. What does the term ‘Ahimsa’ mean in Indian philosophy?

(A) Truth
(B) Non-violence
(C) Charity
(D) Love
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Correct Answer: (B) Non-violence
Notes: Ahimsa means non-violence, a core principle in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. It emphasizes avoiding harm to all living beings through thoughts, words, and actions. Practicing Ahimsa promotes compassion, peace, and respect for life, making it a foundation of ethical and spiritual conduct in Indian traditions.

Q39. What does the Buddhist concept of the ‘Middle Path’ refer to?

(A) Extreme life
(B) Balanced life
(C) Rich life
(D) Poor life
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Correct Answer: (B) Balanced life
Notes: The Middle Path, taught by Buddha, means living a balanced life without extremes. It guides people to avoid too much pleasure or too much hardship. By following moderation, wisdom, and good conduct, one can reach peace and enlightenment through the Eightfold Path.

Q40. Which animal is traditionally linked to the birth of Gautama Buddha?

(A) Elephant
(B) Horse
(C) Lion
(D) Cow
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Correct Answer: (A) Elephant
Notes: According to Buddhist tradition, Queen Maya dreamed of a white elephant entering her womb, which symbolized Buddha’s birth. The elephant stood for purity, strength, and greatness. This dream was seen as a prophecy that Siddhartha Gautama would be born and later become the Buddha, bringing wisdom and enlightenment to the world.

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