Class 6 Social Science Question Answers Chapter 7

India’s Cultural Roots

Question 1. If you were Nachiketa, what questions would you like to ask Yama? Write them down in 100-150 words.

Answer: If I were Nachiketa, I would ask Yama, the god of death, several profound questions that delve into the mysteries of life and death. I would ask:

• “What truly happens to the soul after the death of the body?
• Is there a world beyond this one where the soul resides?
• How can one achieve moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and death?
• What actions in life ensure a peaceful journey for the soul after death?
• Can one attain immortality through good deeds and spiritual practices?

Lastly, I would ask Yama to explain the true nature of the self (ātman) and how it connects to the supreme reality (brahman). Understanding these answers would help me live a righteous and purposeful life, with an awareness of the greater cosmic truth.”

Question 2. Explain a few central ideas of Buddhism. Briefly comment upon them.

Answer: Buddhism, founded by Siddhārtha Gautama, who became the Buddha, centers on the understanding of suffering and the path to its cessation. The key teachings include:

• Four Noble Truths: These truths explain that life is full of suffering (dukkha), that suffering has a cause (tanhā or desire), that there is an end to suffering (nirvana), and that there is a path to end suffering (the Eightfold Path).
• Eightfold Path: This path consists of right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration. It guides individuals to lead a moral and mindful life.
• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Buddhism strongly advocates non-violence and compassion towards all living beings.

Question 3. Discuss in class the quotation of the Buddha which begins with “Not by water is one made pure, though many people may bathe here [in sacred rivers]” to make sure that its meaning has been understood by all.

Answer: This quotation by the Buddha emphasizes that true purity and righteousness cannot be achieved merely by performing rituals like bathing in sacred rivers. While such practices may be symbolic, they do not cleanse a person of their inner impurities, such as negative thoughts, desires, and actions. The Buddha suggests that real purity comes from within—through leading a life of moral integrity, practicing compassion, and cultivating wisdom. It is about purifying one’s mind and heart rather than relying on external rituals. This teaching encourages us to focus on inner transformation and ethical living, rather than depending solely on religious ceremonies for spiritual growth. In essence, the Buddha is reminding us that true spiritual progress comes from our actions, thoughts, and intentions, not just from external rituals.

Question 4. Explain a few central ideas of Jainism. Briefly comment upon them.

Answer: Jainism, an ancient Indian religion, emphasizes a path of non-violence and self-discipline as a means to spiritual purity and liberation. Here are a few central ideas of Jainism:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Jainism places the highest importance on non-violence, not just in action but also in thought and speech. It teaches that all living beings, no matter how small, have a soul and should be treated with respect and compassion.
• Anekāntavāda (Many-sidedness): This principle suggests that truth and reality are complex and can be understood from multiple perspectives. Jainism encourages open-mindedness and respect for different viewpoints.
• Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): Jainism advocates for detachment from material possessions and desires. It teaches that true happiness and peace come from limiting one’s needs and focusing on spiritual growth.
• Karma: In Jainism, karma is seen as a form of matter that attaches to the soul due to one’s actions. The goal is to purify the soul by shedding accumulated karma through right conduct, knowledge, and penance.

Question 5. Consider and discuss in class André Béteille’s thought (see page 122).

Answer: André Béteille’s thought emphasizes the long-standing interaction between tribal and Hindu religions in India. He suggests that both have influenced each other over time, contributing to the richness and diversity of Indian culture. This mutual exchange has led to the blending of traditions, beliefs, and practices, which has shaped the unique cultural landscape of India. Discussing this thought in class can help students understand the interconnectedness of different cultural and religious practices in India.

Question 6. Make a list of popular gods and goddesses in your region and the festivals they are associated with.

Answer: Here’s an example list:

• Durga: Associated with Durga Puja, a major festival celebrating the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.
• Lakshmi: Worshipped during Diwali, the festival of lights, symbolizing prosperity and wealth.
• Saraswati: Honored during Saraswati Puja (Vasant Panchami), which celebrates the goddess of knowledge and wisdom.
• Krishna: Celebrated during Janmashtami, which marks the birth of Lord Krishna.

Question 7. As a class activity, list two or three tribal groups from your region or State. Document some of their art and belief systems.

Answer: Example:

• Santhal Tribe: Known for their vibrant folk dances and music. Their belief system includes the worship of nature and spirits, with a strong emphasis on community rituals.
• Gond Tribe: Famous for their unique Gond art, which involves intricate paintings of animals and nature. They believe in a supreme god called Baradeo and practice various nature-related rituals.
• Bhutia Tribe: Predominantly found in Sikkim, they are known for their beautiful traditional woolen clothes and masks used in dances. Their belief system is influenced by Tibetan Buddhism.

True or False

1. The Vedic hymns were written on palm-leaf manuscripts.

True – The Vedic hymns, which are ancient Indian texts, were indeed written on palm-leaf manuscripts.

2. The Vedas are India’s oldest texts

True – The Vedas are considered India’s oldest texts.

3. The Vedic statement ekam sat vipra bahudha vadanti reflects a belief in the unity of cosmic powers.

True – The Vedic statement “ekam sat viprā bahudhā vadanti” reflects a belief in the unity of cosmic powers.

4. Buddhism is older than the Vedas.

False – The Vedas are older than Buddhism.

5. Jainism emerged as a branch of Buddhism

False – Jainism did not emerge as a branch of Buddhism; it is an independent and ancient religion.

6. Both Buddhism and Jainism advocated for peaceful coexistence and the avoidance of harm to all living.

True – Both Buddhism and Jainism advocated for peaceful coexistence and the avoidance of harm to all living beings.

7. Tribal belief systems are limited to belief in spirits and minor deities.

False – Tribal belief systems are rich and complex, encompassing more than just belief in spirits and minor deities.

The Big Questions (Page 105)

Question 1. What are the Vedas? What is their message?

Answer: The Vedas are the oldest and most sacred texts of India, composed in an ancient form of Sanskrit. They consist of four collections: the Ṛig Veda, Yajur Veda, Sāma Veda, and Atharva Veda. The Vedas contain hymns, prayers, and rituals dedicated to various deities. Their message focuses on the importance of truth, righteousness, and the unity of cosmic forces, guiding people to live a life in harmony with the divine order.

Question 2. What new schools of thought emerged in India in the 1st millennium BCE? What are their core principles?

Answer: In the 1st millennium BCE, several new schools of thought emerged in India, including Buddhism, Jainism, and various Vedic philosophies like Vedanta and Yoga. Buddhism taught the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, emphasizing the end of suffering through enlightenment. Jainism focused on non-violence (Ahimsa), truth, and self-discipline. Vedanta emphasized the unity of the individual soul (ātman) with the supreme reality (brahman), and Yoga provided methods for spiritual development and self-realization.

Question 3. What is the contribution of folk and tribal traditions to Indian culture?

Answer: Folk and tribal traditions have significantly enriched Indian culture through their unique art forms, rituals, and belief systems. These traditions have influenced mainstream Hinduism, contributing to the diversity of religious practices and deities. For example, many popular deities, such as Jagannath, originated from tribal traditions. Folk and tribal cultures also emphasize the sacredness of nature and community, fostering a deep respect for the environment and social harmony.