Q150. The achievements of King Kharavela are recorded in which of the following inscriptions?
[OSSC CGL Mains – 2026]
A. Allahabad Pillar Inscription
B. Hathigumpha Inscription
C. Mehrauli Iron Pillar Inscription
D. Junagadh Inscription
Answer: B. Hathigumpha Inscription
Explanation: The Hathigumpha inscription at Udayagiri near Bhubaneswar records the military, administrative and cultural achievements of Kharavela, the Chedi-Mahameghavahana ruler and an important patron of Jainism.
Q149. Which highly revered Śvetāmbara Jain text describes the lives of the 24 Tirthankaras, the lineage of pontiffs and monastic rules observed during Paryushana?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2026]
A. Kalpa-yoga
B. Kalpa-sutradham
C. Kalpa-samant
D. Kalpa-sutra
Answer: D. Kalpa-sutra
Explanation: Kalpa Sutra is an important Śvetāmbara canonical text traditionally attributed to Bhadrabahu. It contains biographies of Tirthankaras and rules governing Jain monastic conduct, particularly during Paryushana.
Q148. Who among the following was a ruler of the Chedi (Mahameghavahana) dynasty of Kalinga?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2026]
A. Gautamiputra Satakarni
B. Kanishka
C. Kharavela
D. Pushyamitra Shunga
Answer: C. Kharavela
Explanation: Kharavela was the best-known Mahameghavahana or Chedi ruler of Kalinga. His Hathigumpha inscription records his campaigns, public works and patronage of Jain religious establishments.
Q147. Identify the incorrect match between the thinker and the country associated with him.
[CUET UG History – 2026]
A. Zarathustra – Iran
B. Kong Zi – China
C. Socrates – Germany
D. Mahavira – India
Answer: C. Socrates – Germany
Explanation: Socrates belonged to ancient Greece, particularly Athens, not Germany. Mahavira, the twenty-fourth Jain Tirthankara, lived and preached in the Gangetic plains of ancient India.
Q146. The emergence of Buddhism and Jainism in the 6th century BCE can primarily be linked to which factor?
[SSC GD Constable – 2026]
A. Rise of monarchies
B. Criticism of Vedic rituals
C. Decline of agriculture
D. Persian influence
Answer: B. Criticism of Vedic rituals
Explanation: Jainism and Buddhism grew within the Śramaṇa movement, partly as responses to elaborate sacrifices, ritualism and Brahmanical orthodoxy, while emphasizing ethical conduct, renunciation and individual spiritual effort.
Q145. The ancient kingdom of Vallabhi, important in Jain history, was located mainly in present-day which state?
[SSC GD Constable – 2026]
A. Rajasthan
B. Gujarat
C. Maharashtra
D. Madhya Pradesh
Answer: B. Gujarat
Explanation: Vallabhi was an important ancient centre in Gujarat. Jain tradition associates it especially with the council at which the Śvetāmbara canonical scriptures were given their final written compilation.
Q144. A defining stylistic feature of Jain painting is the predominance of:
[UP PGT Arts – 2026]
A. Soft tonal shading
B. Blurred outlines
C. Thin, wiry linear outlines
D. Thick impasto brushwork
Answer: C. Thin, wiry linear outlines
Explanation: Western Indian Jain manuscript painting is recognized by strong linear treatment, angular figures, projecting eyes and brilliant colours, especially in illustrated manuscripts such as the Kalpa Sutra.
Q143. Which feature most clearly distinguishes early Jain doctrine as systematized by Mahavira from several other Śramaṇa traditions?
[UP PGT History – 2026]
A. Middle path between austerity and indulgence
B. Acceptance of Vedic sacrificial authority
C. Rejection of karma and rebirth
D. Anekāntavāda and Syādvāda with rigorous ascetic non-violence
Answer: D. Anekāntavāda and Syādvāda with rigorous ascetic non-violence
Explanation: Jain philosophy combines rigorous ahimsa and asceticism with Anekāntavāda, the many-sidedness of reality, and Syādvāda, which expresses judgments conditionally from different standpoints.
Q142. According to Census 2011, which among the following religions had the lowest population in India?
[DSSSB MTS – 2026]
A. Islam
B. Jainism
C. Hinduism
D. Christianity
Answer: B. Jainism
Explanation: Jains constituted roughly 0.4% of India’s population in Census 2011, making Jainism the smallest among the major religious communities separately enumerated in the Census.
Q141. The inscriptions of Ashoka and Kharavela were primarily written in which language?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2026]
A. Pali
B. Bengali
C. Sanskrit
D. Prakrit
Answer: D. Prakrit
Explanation: Most Ashokan edicts and Kharavela’s Hathigumpha inscription employ forms of Prakrit written in Brahmi script, reflecting the widespread use of vernacular Middle Indo-Aryan languages.
Q140. According to Census 2011 patterns, which religious community was predominantly concentrated in urban areas?
[SSC GD Constable – 2026]
A. Jains only
B. Christians only
C. Both Jains and Christians equally
D. Neither Jains nor Christians
Answer: A. Jains only
Explanation: Census data show a particularly high proportion of India’s Jain population residing in urban areas, reflecting the community’s historical concentration in commerce, towns and major trading centres.
Q139. Which language was adopted by Jainism as a sacred and preaching language in ancient India?
[SSC GD Constable – 2026]
A. Urdu
B. Prakrit
C. Telugu
D. Bengali
Answer: B. Prakrit
Explanation: Early Jain teachers used popular Prakrits rather than restricting instruction to Sanskrit. Much of the Śvetāmbara canonical literature survives in Ardhamagadhi and related Prakrit languages.
Q138. Which statement about Mount Parsvanatha or Sammed Shikhar in Jharkhand is correct?
[OSSSC Forester/Forest Guard/Excise Constable – 2026]
A. Mahavira was born there
B. It housed India’s largest Jain university
C. Jain scriptures were first written there
D. Twenty Tirthankaras are believed to have attained moksha there
Answer: D. Twenty Tirthankaras are believed to have attained moksha there
Explanation: Sammed Shikharji in Jharkhand is one of Jainism’s holiest pilgrimage centres because Jain tradition holds that twenty of the twenty-four Tirthankaras attained liberation there.
Q137. Which Indian cave complex contains monuments associated with Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism?
[DSSSB MTS – 2026]
A. Bhaja
B. Kanheri
C. Ajanta
D. Ellora
Answer: D. Ellora
Explanation: Ellora in Maharashtra contains Buddhist, Brahmanical and Jain caves created over several centuries. Its later caves include important Digambara Jain monuments with elaborate sculptures and shrines.
Q136. Which religious community recorded the lowest population growth rate during 2001–2011 according to Census 2011 data?
[DSSSB MTS – 2026]
A. Buddhist
B. Christian
C. Jain
D. Sikh
Answer: C. Jain
Explanation: Census data recorded the Jain community’s decadal population growth at about 5.4%, the lowest among the major religious communities compared in the relevant official demographic statistics.
Q135. Which ancient language, associated with scholars such as Vararuchi and Samantabhadra, was used to communicate religious teachings to ordinary people?
[DSSSB MTS – 2026]
A. Persian
B. Pali
C. Classical Sanskrit
D. Prakrit
Answer: D. Prakrit
Explanation: Prakrit comprised several Middle Indo-Aryan vernaculars. Jain teachers extensively employed Prakrit varieties because they were more accessible to ordinary people than learned Vedic or classical Sanskrit.
Q134. Chota Hati Gumpha, associated with the Kharavela-period cave tradition, is located in which Odisha cave complex?
[OSSC CGL – 2026]
A. Lalitgiri
B. Ratnagiri
C. Udayagiri
D. Dhauli
Answer: C. Udayagiri
Explanation: Chota Hati Gumpha is situated at Udayagiri near Bhubaneswar. Udayagiri-Khandagiri preserves numerous ancient caves connected with Jain ascetics and the patronage of Kharavela.
Q133. If you wish to visit famous Jain pilgrimage centres, which of the following towns would be appropriate? Sonagiri
[UPSC NDA – 2026]
- Moodabidri
- Madurai
- Sonagiri
[UPSC NDA – 2026]
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B. 1 and 3 only
Explanation: Moodabidri in Karnataka and Sonagiri in Madhya Pradesh are renowned Jain pilgrimage centres. Moodabidri is famous for Jain basadis, while Sonagiri contains numerous Digambara Jain temples.
Q132. King Kharavela belonged to which dynasty?
[RRB NTPC Graduate – 2026]
A. Chedi dynasty
B. Satavahana dynasty
C. Kanva dynasty
D. Shunga dynasty
Answer: A. Chedi dynasty
Explanation: Kharavela was the prominent ruler of the Chedi or Mahameghavahana line of Kalinga. His reign is principally reconstructed through the famous Hathigumpha inscription in Odisha.
Q131. According to Census 2011, which minority religious community recorded the highest literacy rate?
[DSSSB MTS – 2026]
A. Christians
B. Jains
C. Sikhs
D. Buddhists
Answer: B. Jains
Explanation: Census 2011 recorded Jains as having the highest literacy rate among India’s major religious communities, reflecting historically high educational attainment within the relatively small Jain population.
Q130. The theory of Anekāntavāda is principally associated with whom?
[SSC MTS – 2026]
A. Mahavira
B. Vishnugupta
C. Gautama Buddha
D. Samudragupta
Answer: A. Mahavira
Explanation: Anekāntavāda is the Jain doctrine that reality possesses many aspects and cannot be completely described from a single viewpoint. It became fundamental to Jain philosophical thought.
Q129. In Jain philosophy, Samyakcharitra refers to:
[SSC MTS – 2026]
A. Right faith
B. Right conduct
C. Right meditation
D. Right knowledge
Answer: B. Right conduct
Explanation: Samyakcharitra, or Right Conduct, forms one of Jainism’s Three Jewels alongside Right Faith and Right Knowledge. Together they constitute the path leading toward liberation from karmic bondage.
Q128. How many distinct temples are present in the famous Dilwara Jain Temple complex?
[SSC MTS – 2026]
A. 2
B. 3
C. 5
D. 7
Answer: C. 5
Explanation: Dilwara at Mount Abu comprises five principal Jain temples: Vimal Vasahi, Luna Vasahi, Pittalhar, Parshvanath and Mahavir Swami, renowned particularly for intricate marble craftsmanship.
Q127. Deo Deepawali in Bihar is celebrated in Jain tradition to commemorate whose nirvana?
[SSC MTS – 2026]
A. Jesus Christ
B. Guru Nanak
C. Gautama Buddha
D. Mahavira
Answer: D. Mahavira
Explanation: Jain tradition commemorates Mahavira’s attainment of nirvana at Pavapuri on the new-moon night associated with Diwali. Lamps symbolize the continuation of spiritual knowledge after his liberation.
Q126. The classical Tamil work Jivaka Chintamani is associated with which religion?
[MP Police SI – 2026]
A. Hinduism
B. Buddhism
C. Jainism
D. Sikhism
Answer: C. Jainism
Explanation: Civaka Cintamani or Jivaka Chintamani, one of the Five Great Tamil Epics, was composed by the Jain poet Tiruttakkatevar and reflects important Jain religious ideas.
Q125. Consider the following statements about Gwalior Fort: Caturbhuj Temple within it is a Vaishnava shrine.
Which are correct?
[SSC CGL Tier-II – 2026]
- It extends over a hilltop more than 2 km long.
- Its southern approach has rock-cut images of Jain Tirthankaras.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Gwalior Fort occupies a long sandstone ridge. Its approaches contain remarkable medieval Jain Tirthankara sculptures, while the Caturbhuj Temple is dedicated to Vishnu and represents Vaishnava tradition.
Q124. At which Jain council was the final compilation of the Śvetāmbara Agamas undertaken?
[MP Police SI – 2026]
A. Vaishali
B. Vallabhi
C. Pava
D. Vidarbha
Answer: B. Vallabhi
Explanation: The council at Vallabhi in Gujarat, traditionally presided over by Devardhigani Kshamashramana, produced the final redaction of the surviving Śvetāmbara Jain canonical scriptures.
Q123. Match the following Śramaṇa traditions with their characteristic doctrines: [MP Police SI – 2026]
A. Buddhism – Middle Path
B. Jainism – Severe austerity and belief in Jiva
C. Ajivika – Niyati or determinism
D. Charvaka – Materialism
A. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
B. A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
C. A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
D. A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
Answer: A. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
Explanation: Buddhism advocated a Middle Path; Jainism rigorous austerity and the reality of souls; Ajivikas taught absolute determinism or Niyati; and Charvakas represented materialist philosophy.
Q122. Which cave complex contains Buddhist, Hindu and Jain monuments dating broadly between the sixth and tenth centuries CE?
[Delhi Police Constable – 2026]
A. Ajanta
B. Ellora
C. Karle
D. Bhaja
Answer: B. Ellora
Explanation: Ellora uniquely presents major rock-cut monuments belonging to three religious traditions. The Jain caves, mainly associated with Digambara tradition, form the latest phase of the complex.
Q121. Which architectural style is represented by the Khajuraho temple group, which also contains important medieval Jain shrines?
[DSSSB MTS – 2026]
A. Dravida
B. Nagara
C. Vesara
D. Indo-Islamic
Answer: B. Nagara
Explanation: Khajuraho temples are classic examples of the northern Nagara tradition. Alongside famous Brahmanical shrines, the complex contains significant Jain temples such as Parsvanatha and Adinatha.
Q120. Who presided over or led the First Jain Council held at Pataliputra?
[SSC CPO – 2025]
A. Bhadrabahu
B. Sthulabhadra
C. Moggaliputta Tissa
D. Mahakassapa
Answer: B. Sthulabhadra
Explanation: Jain tradition associates the First Jain Council at Pataliputra with Sthulabhadra. It sought to preserve teachings during a period when Bhadrabahu and followers had migrated southward.
Q119. Jain temples such as Dilwara are particularly famous for which architectural feature?
[SSC CPO – 2025]
A. Highly intricate marble carvings
B. Enormous unsupported domes
C. Bronze horse sculptures
D. Gothic arches and vaults
Answer: A. Highly intricate marble carvings
Explanation: Dilwara’s Jain temples are celebrated for extraordinarily detailed marble carving on pillars, ceilings, domes and doorways, representing the technical sophistication of medieval western Indian craftsmanship.
Q118. Which ruler was a contemporary of both Gautama Buddha and Mahavira?
[SSC CHSL – 2025]
A. Chandragupta Maurya
B. Ashoka
C. Ajatashatru
D. Harshavardhana
Answer: C. Ajatashatru
Explanation: Ajatashatru of Magadha ruled during the period associated with both Mahavira and Gautama Buddha and appears in traditions belonging to both Jainism and Buddhism.
Q117. Which philosophical system is particularly associated with Mahavira and Jain philosophy?
[SSC CHSL – 2025]
A. Dvaita
B. Syādvāda
C. Vedanta
D. Mimamsa
Answer: B. Syādvāda
Explanation: Syādvāda expresses propositions conditionally—“from a certain standpoint.” It develops from Jain Anekāntavāda, which maintains that complex reality possesses multiple aspects and viewpoints.
Q116. At what age did Mahavira leave his household life in search of spiritual liberation?
[SSC CHSL – 2025]
A. 25 years
B. 30 years
C. 35 years
D. 40 years
Answer: B. 30 years
Explanation: Jain tradition states that Vardhamana Mahavira renounced worldly life at thirty. He then practised prolonged austerities before attaining Kevala Jnana, or perfect knowledge.
Q115. Mahavira was born into a royal family near which ancient city?
[SSC CHSL – 2025]
A. Taxila
B. Vaishali
C. Ujjain
D. Pataliputra
Answer: B. Vaishali
Explanation: Mahavira was born at Kundagrama near Vaishali in present-day Bihar. His family was connected with the Jnatrika clan within the wider Vajji-Lichchhavi political environment.
Q114. Who was the twenty-third Tirthankara of Jainism?
[DSSSB TGT – 2025]
A. Rishabhanatha
B. Neminatha
C. Parshvanatha
D. Mahavira
Answer: C. Parshvanatha
Explanation: Parshvanatha is recognized as the twenty-third Tirthankara and traditionally preceded Mahavira by about two and a half centuries. His teachings emphasized four principal vows.
Q113. What does the Jain ethical principle Aparigraha mean?
[SSC CHSL – 2025]
A. Non-violence
B. Truthfulness
C. Non-possession
D. Celibacy
Answer: C. Non-possession
Explanation: Aparigraha means limiting attachment and possessions. It is one of Jainism’s five major vows and aims to reduce attachment, greed and karmic bondage hindering spiritual liberation.
Q112. Which Jain principle means complete avoidance of violence toward living beings?
[DSSSB TGT – 2025]
A. Asteya
B. Ahimsa
C. Aparigraha
D. Satya
Answer: B. Ahimsa
Explanation: Ahimsa is central to Jain ethics and is interpreted particularly rigorously. Monks and nuns take extensive precautions to avoid harming even minute forms of life.
Q111. The colossal Gommateshwara or Bahubali statue is situated at:
[UP Police Computer Operator – 2025]
A. Palitana
B. Shravanabelagola
C. Pavapuri
D. Rajgir
Answer: B. Shravanabelagola
Explanation: The monumental Bahubali statue at Shravanabelagola in Karnataka was commissioned by the Ganga minister Chamundaraya around 981 CE and remains a major Digambara Jain pilgrimage centre.
Q110. Why are followers of the Śvetāmbara Jain sect called “Śvetāmbara”?
[OSSSC CRE – 2025]
A. They worship white stone only
B. Their monks traditionally wear white clothes
C. They reside only in western India
D. They reject image worship completely
Answer: B. Their monks traditionally wear white clothes
Explanation: Śvetāmbara literally means “white-clad.” Its monks and nuns wear white garments, distinguishing the tradition especially from Digambara ascetics, whose ideal requires complete renunciation of clothing.
Q109. Who was the first Tirthankara of Jainism?
[SSC CGL – 2025]
A. Parshvanatha
B. Rishabhadeva
C. Sambhavanatha
D. Chandraprabha
Answer: B. Rishabhadeva
Explanation: Rishabhadeva, also called Rishabhanatha or Adinatha, occupies the first position among the twenty-four Jain Tirthankaras and is represented iconographically by the bull symbol.
Q108. Who is regarded as the twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara of Jainism?
[UPSSSC PET – 2025]
A. Neminatha
B. Vardhamana Mahavira
C. Parshvanatha
D. Rishabhanatha
Answer: B. Vardhamana Mahavira
Explanation: Vardhamana Mahavira is the twenty-fourth Tirthankara of the present Jain time cycle. He reorganized and propagated the Jain religious community in the sixth century BCE.
Q107. At which place did Mahavira attain nirvana?
[UPSSSC PET – 2025]
A. Rajgir
B. Pavapuri
C. Vaishali
D. Sarnath
Answer: B. Pavapuri
Explanation: Jain tradition records Mahavira’s final liberation or nirvana at Pavapuri in present-day Bihar. The site remains one of the most revered pilgrimage centres of Jainism.
Q106. What is the traditional symbol of the twenty-third Tirthankara Parshvanatha?
[UPSSSC PET – 2025]
A. Bull
B. Lion
C. Snake
D. Horse
Answer: C. Snake
Explanation: Parshvanatha is identified iconographically by the serpent, frequently represented as a multi-hooded cobra sheltering his head, making his images easily distinguishable from most other Tirthankaras.
Q105. Which second-century BCE ruler of Kalinga was an important patron of Jainism?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2025]
A. Pushyamitra Shunga
B. Kharavela
C. Agnimitra
D. Menander
Answer: B. Kharavela
Explanation: Kharavela of Kalinga is closely associated with Jain patronage. His Hathigumpha inscription mentions religious activities, while Udayagiri-Khandagiri caves are strongly linked with Jain ascetic communities.
Q104. The Jain council held at Vallabhi for the compilation of the Śvetāmbara canon is traditionally regarded as which council?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2025]
A. First
B. Second
C. Third
D. Fourth
Answer: B. Second
Explanation: Jain tradition generally identifies the Vallabhi assembly as the Second Jain Council. It is especially important because the surviving Śvetāmbara Agamas received their final canonical redaction there.
Q103. According to the traditional Śvetāmbara classification, how many Agamas comprise its canonical literature?
[RRB NTPC UG – 2025]
A. 6
B. 12
C. 35
D. 45
Answer: D. 45
Explanation: A traditional Śvetāmbara enumeration recognizes forty-five surviving canonical texts divided into categories such as Angas, Upangas, Chedasutras, Mulasutras and other canonical groups.
Q102. Which of the following forms one of the Three Jewels or Triratna of Jainism?
[UPSC CDS-I – 2025]
A. Samyag-darshana
B. Yajna
C. Bhakti alone
D. Vedic sacrifice
Answer: A. Samyag-darshana
Explanation: Jain Triratna consists of Samyak Darshana or Right Faith, Samyak Jnana or Right Knowledge, and Samyak Charitra or Right Conduct—the three essentials for liberation.
Q101. Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves near Bhubaneswar were originally associated principally with ascetics of which religion?
[SSC Stenographer – 2025]
A. Jainism
B. Sikhism
C. Zoroastrianism
D. Christianity
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: Many Udayagiri-Khandagiri caves were excavated for Jain monks, particularly under Kharavela and related patrons of ancient Kalinga, making them important evidence for early Jain monastic architecture.
Q100. Kharavela was an important ruler of which dynasty?
[SSC MTS – 2024]
A. Shunga
B. Vardhana
C. Gupta
D. Chedi
Answer: D. Chedi
Explanation: Kharavela was associated with the Chedi-Mahameghavahana dynasty of Kalinga. His Hathigumpha inscription supplies valuable evidence concerning ancient Odisha, military campaigns and Jain patronage.
Q99. The teachings of Mahavira and his followers were finally written down in their present canonical form at:
[SSC MTS – 2024]
A. Taxila
B. Vallabhi
C. Ujjain
D. Sanchi
Answer: B. Vallabhi
Explanation: Vallabhi in Gujarat became a major Jain scholarly centre. Śvetāmbara tradition holds that its council committed the surviving canonical teachings to a definitive written form.
Q98. Who was a contemporary of Gautama Buddha but was not regarded as the first founder of his religious tradition?
[SSC MTS – 2024]
A. Rishabhanatha
B. Bhadrabahu
C. Arishtanemi
D. Mahavira
Answer: D. Mahavira
Explanation: Mahavira was broadly contemporary with the Buddha but was the twenty-fourth, not first, Jain Tirthankara. Jain tradition traces its lineage back to Rishabhanatha.
Q97. The famous Dilwara Jain Temples are located at:
[SSC MTS – 2024]
A. Mount Abu
B. Udaipur
C. Jaisalmer
D. Jaipur
Answer: A. Mount Abu
Explanation: The Dilwara temples stand near Mount Abu in Rajasthan and are renowned for elaborate marble workmanship. Their construction extended from the eleventh to sixteenth centuries.
Q96. The Hathigumpha inscription of Kharavela is associated with which ancient region?
[SSC MTS – 2024]
A. Gandhara
B. Kalinga
C. Magadha
D. Avanti
Answer: B. Kalinga
Explanation: Hathigumpha lies at Udayagiri in Odisha, the core region of ancient Kalinga. Its inscription records events from the reign of the Jain-patron ruler Kharavela.
Q95. Paryushana is an important festival of which religion?
[SSC CGL – 2024]
A. Buddhism
B. Jainism
C. Sikhism
D. Zoroastrianism
Answer: B. Jainism
Explanation: Paryushana is one of Jainism’s most important periods of spiritual discipline, emphasizing fasting, study, repentance and forgiveness, especially among followers of the Śvetāmbara tradition.
Q94. What was the capital of King Kharavela?
[OSSC CGLRE Mains – 2024]
A. Toshali
B. Kalinga Nagar
C. Katak Nagari
D. Jaipur
Answer: B. Kalinga Nagar
Explanation: Kalinga Nagar served as Kharavela’s capital. The Hathigumpha inscription refers to his works and achievements connected with the kingdom of Kalinga in present-day Odisha.
Q93. Mahavir Jayanti commemorates the birth anniversary of which Jain Tirthankara?
[SSC CHSL – 2024]
A. First
B. Twelfth
C. Twenty-third
D. Twenty-fourth
Answer: D. Twenty-fourth
Explanation: Mahavir Jayanti marks the birth of Vardhamana Mahavira, Jainism’s twenty-fourth Tirthankara, whose teachings strongly emphasized ahimsa, self-discipline, non-attachment and liberation from karma.
Q92. Shravanabelagola is most closely associated with which religion?
[OSSSC LSI/Forester/Forest Guard – 2024]
A. Buddhism
B. Jainism
C. Sikhism
D. Judaism
Answer: B. Jainism
Explanation: Shravanabelagola in Karnataka is a major Jain centre, famous for the colossal monolithic image of Bahubali or Gommateshwara commissioned during the Western Ganga period.
Q91. In Jainism, the term “Tirthankara” literally conveys the idea of a:
[WBPSC Food SI – 2024]
A. Fire worshipper
B. Ford-maker
C. Temple architect
D. Royal priest
Answer: B. Ford-maker
Explanation: A Tirthankara is metaphorically a “ford-maker”: an enlightened teacher who reveals a crossing or spiritual path by which souls can transcend samsara and attain liberation.
Q90. Which statements regarding Jainism are correct?
- Mahavira attained Kaivalya.
- Parshvanatha prescribed four major vows.
[CUET PG History – 2024]
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C. Both 1 and 2
Explanation: Jain tradition credits Mahavira with attaining Kevala Jnana or omniscience. Parshvanatha is associated with four vows, while Mahavira explicitly added Brahmacharya as the fifth.
Q89. Consider the statements:
- Anekāntavāda is an important doctrine of Jain philosophy.
- Syādvāda expresses the conditional nature of judgments.**
[CGPSC Prelims – 2024]
A. Only 1 is correct
B. Only 2 is correct
C. Both are correct
D. Neither is correct
Answer: C. Both are correct
Explanation: Anekāntavāda teaches that reality has multiple aspects. Syādvāda complements it epistemologically by qualifying statements according to particular standpoints rather than asserting absolute one-sided propositions.
2023
Q88. Dev Deepawali at Pawapuri is associated with which event in Jain tradition?
[Delhi Police Constable – 2023]
A. Birth of Mahavira
B. Mahavira’s nirvana
C. Birth of Parshvanatha
D. First Jain Council
Answer: B. Mahavira’s nirvana
Explanation: Pawapuri is revered as the place where Mahavira attained final liberation. Jain Diwali traditions commemorate this nirvana and symbolically celebrate the continuing light of his teachings.
Q87. The teachings of Mahavira were finally compiled in written form at which place in Gujarat?
[UPSSSC PET – 2023]
A. Bharuch
B. Vallabhi
C. Dwarka
D. Junagadh
Answer: B. Vallabhi
Explanation: Vallabhi became a major centre of Jain learning. The Śvetāmbara council held there is associated with the final compilation and preservation of its surviving canonical scriptures.
Q86. What does the Jain term “Jina” mean?
[UPSSSC PET – 2023]
A. The Creator
B. The Conqueror
C. The Priest
D. The Sacrificer
Answer: B. The Conqueror
Explanation: Jina means “conqueror,” specifically one who has conquered passions, attachments and karmic bondage. The term “Jain” denotes a follower of the spiritual path revealed by Jinas.
Q85. The Jain Agamas were primarily composed in which linguistic tradition?
[NCERT LDC – 2023]
A. Persian
B. Prakrit
C. Arabic
D. Tamil only
Answer: B. Prakrit
Explanation: Much early Jain canonical literature was transmitted in Middle Indo-Aryan Prakrits, particularly Ardhamagadhi. This reflected the Jain preference for languages understandable to wider populations.
Q84. Paryushana is celebrated by followers of:
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Jainism
B. Sikhism
C. Islam
D. Christianity
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: Paryushana emphasizes purification through fasting, scriptural study, meditation and repentance. The observance culminates in forgiveness, expressed through the Jain practice of seeking pardon from others.
Q83. The Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony at Shravanabelagola is generally held once every:
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. 5 years
B. 8 years
C. 10 years
D. 12 years
Answer: D. 12 years
Explanation: Mahamastakabhisheka is the grand anointing ceremony of the colossal Bahubali statue at Shravanabelagola, traditionally performed approximately once every twelve years with elaborate Jain rituals.
Q82. Mahavira was born in the territory of which Mahajanapada or confederacy?
[SSC CHSL – 2023]
A. Gandhara
B. Vajji
C. Avanti
D. Kamboja
Answer: B. Vajji
Explanation: Kundagrama, Mahavira’s traditional birthplace near Vaishali, belonged to the Vajji confederacy. His Jnatrika clan was politically and matrimonially connected with the powerful Lichchhavis.
Q81. Match the monument with its location: Dilwara Jain Temples — ?
[CRPF Constable – 2023]
A. Sanchi
B. Mount Abu
C. Bodh Gaya
D. Madurai
Answer: B. Mount Abu
Explanation: Dilwara Jain temples are situated near Mount Abu in Rajasthan. Their delicate marble carving made them among India’s most celebrated examples of medieval Jain temple architecture.
Q80. Dilwara Temple is one of India’s renowned ______ temple complexes.
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Buddhist
B. Hindu
C. Jain
D. Sikh
Answer: C. Jain
Explanation: The Dilwara complex comprises five Jain temples dedicated to different Tirthankaras. It developed under wealthy patrons and rulers associated with medieval western India’s Solanki architectural tradition.
Q79. Which fifth major vow was particularly emphasized or explicitly added by Mahavira to the fourfold discipline associated with Parshvanatha?
[MPTET – 2023]
A. Ahimsa
B. Satya
C. Brahmacharya
D. Asteya
Answer: C. Brahmacharya
Explanation: Parshvanatha’s followers traditionally observed four vows. Mahavira’s fivefold discipline explicitly recognized Brahmacharya, or celibacy/chastity, along with ahimsa, truth, non-stealing and non-possession.
Q78. Who was the last Tirthankara of Jainism?
[SSC MTS – 2023]
A. Rishabhanatha
B. Parshvanatha
C. Neminatha
D. Vardhamana Mahavira
Answer: D. Vardhamana Mahavira
Explanation: Mahavira occupies the twenty-fourth and final position among Tirthankaras of the current Jain cosmic cycle and became the principal historical organizer of the surviving Jain community.
Q77. Which philosophical doctrine of Jainism stresses the many-sided nature of reality?
[UGC NET History – 2023]
A. Shunyavada
B. Anekāntavāda
C. Advaita
D. Ajativada
Answer: B. Anekāntavāda
Explanation: Anekāntavāda rejects one-sided descriptions of complex reality. Jain philosophers therefore maintain that apparently contradictory judgments can express valid aspects when understood from different standpoints.
Q76. At what age did Mahavira renounce his worldly life?
[SSC GD – 2023]
A. 25
B. 29
C. 30
D. 40
Answer: C. 30
Explanation: Traditional Jain biographies state that Mahavira renounced household life at thirty and spent approximately twelve years practising severe asceticism before attaining Kevala Jnana.
Q75. Which statement about Mahavira is NOT correct according to the traditional Jain account?
[CGPSC Prelims – 2023]
A. He belonged to a Kshatriya family
B. He was associated with Kundagrama
C. He attained Kaivalya
D. He never married
Answer: D. He never married
Explanation: Śvetāmbara tradition describes Mahavira as having married Yashoda before renunciation. Digambara tradition differs on this detail, illustrating variations between Jain sectarian biographical traditions.
Q74. Consider the statements:
- Mahavira attained Kaivalya near Jrimbhikagrama on the bank of the Rijupalika River.
- In Jain philosophy, Asrava denotes the influx of karmic matter into the soul.
[UPSC CAPF – 2023]
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C. Both 1 and 2
Explanation: Jain tradition locates Mahavira’s omniscience near Jrimbhikagrama. Asrava technically means the inflow of karmic particles toward the jiva, while Samvara signifies stopping that inflow.
Q73. Mahavira was born near which ancient city?
[Uttarakhand Police Constable – 2022]
A. Vaishali
B. Taxila
C. Mathura
D. Ujjain
Answer: A. Vaishali
Explanation: Mahavira’s birthplace is traditionally identified as Kundagrama near Vaishali in Bihar. He was born into the Jnatrika Kshatriya clan within the Vajji political region.
Q72. Vardhamana Mahavira was the ______ Tirthankara of Jainism.
[SSC Stenographer – 2022]
A. First
B. Twelfth
C. Twenty-third
D. Twenty-fourth
Answer: D. Twenty-fourth
Explanation: Jain tradition recognizes twenty-four Tirthankaras in the present cycle. Rishabhanatha is first, Parshvanatha twenty-third and Vardhamana Mahavira the twenty-fourth and last.
Q71. Mahavir Jayanti is an important festival of which community?
[SSC CPO – 2022]
A. Jain
B. Buddhist
C. Sikh
D. Parsi
Answer: A. Jain
Explanation: Mahavir Jayanti celebrates the traditional birth anniversary of Vardhamana Mahavira and is one of the major religious observances shared across Jain communities.
Q70. Which principle receives the greatest emphasis in Jain ethics?
[UPSSSC PET – 2022]
A. Animal sacrifice
B. Ahimsa
C. Ritual bathing
D. Vedic chanting
Answer: B. Ahimsa
Explanation: Jainism interprets ahimsa exceptionally broadly, extending moral concern to animals, plants and minute organisms. Careful behaviour is required to minimize intentional and avoidable injury to life.
Q69. In Jainism, a Tirthankara is best described as:
[RRB Group D – 2022]
A. A royal administrator
B. A spiritual teacher who establishes a path to liberation
C. A sacrificial priest
D. A Buddhist monk
Answer: B. A spiritual teacher who establishes a path to liberation
Explanation: Tirthankaras attain liberation through their own spiritual conquest and reveal the path for others. Hence the term metaphorically means one who constructs a ford across samsara.
Q68. Jain teachings were written down in their present form at which place?
[RRB Group D – 2022]
A. Vallabhi
B. Sarnath
C. Nalanda
D. Kanchipuram
Answer: A. Vallabhi
Explanation: The Śvetāmbara tradition credits the Vallabhi council with arranging the surviving Jain canonical texts into a written corpus after centuries of oral transmission.
Q67. Who was the first Tirthankara of Jainism?
[RRB Group D – 2022]
A. Rishabhanatha
B. Parshvanatha
C. Mahavira
D. Neminatha
Answer: A. Rishabhanatha
Explanation: Rishabhanatha, also known as Rishabhadeva or Adinatha, heads the Jain sequence of twenty-four Tirthankaras and is conventionally represented by the bull emblem.
Q66. The famous Palitana Jain temples are located in which state?
[RRB Group D – 2022]
A. Gujarat
B. Bihar
C. Odisha
D. Karnataka
Answer: A. Gujarat
Explanation: Palitana’s extensive Jain temple complex stands on Shatrunjaya Hill in Gujarat. It is among the most sacred Śvetāmbara pilgrimage destinations and contains hundreds of shrines.
Q65. Who is credited with giving Jainism much of its historically known organized form?
[RRB Group D – 2022]
A. Ashoka
B. Mahavira
C. Kanishka
D. Nagarjuna
Answer: B. Mahavira
Explanation: Mahavira did not originate the Tirthankara tradition; rather, as its twenty-fourth teacher he reorganized, systematized and extensively propagated Jain doctrine and the fourfold community.
Q64. Digambara is a major sect of which religion?
[RRB Group D – 2022]
A. Buddhism
B. Jainism
C. Sikhism
D. Islam
Answer: B. Jainism
Explanation: Jainism’s two major surviving sectarian traditions are Digambara and Śvetāmbara. Their differences concern monastic clothing, scriptures, practices and certain doctrinal or biographical questions.
Q63. Gommateshwara, the colossal statue at Shravanabelagola, represents:
[WBCS Mains – 2022]
A. Mahavira
B. Parshvanatha
C. Bahubali
D. Rishabhanatha
Answer: C. Bahubali
Explanation: The approximately 57-foot monolithic statue depicts Bahubali, son of Rishabhanatha. It was commissioned by Chamundaraya under the Western Ganga dynasty in the tenth century.
Q62. The earliest followers of Mahavira were also known as:
[HP High Court Clerk – 2022]
A. Nigranthas
B. Ajivikas
C. Shakyas
D. Lokayatas
Answer: A. Nigranthas
Explanation: Buddhist and other early sources refer to Mahavira as Nigantha Nataputta and his followers as Niganthas or Nirgranthas, meaning those freed from worldly bonds.
Q61. The Dilwara Jain Temples are situated at:
[DSSSB JSA – 2022]
A. Mount Abu
B. Ajmer
C. Chittorgarh
D. Bikaner
Answer: A. Mount Abu
Explanation: Mount Abu’s Dilwara complex contains five elaborately carved marble Jain temples built through patronage by ministers, merchants and rulers of western India over several centuries.
Q60. Who is traditionally credited with authorship of the Jain Kalpa Sutra?
[UPPSC Polytechnic Lecturer – 2022]
A. Hemachandra
B. Bhadrabahu
C. Haribhadra
D. Jinasena
Answer: B. Bhadrabahu
Explanation: Jain tradition attributes the Kalpa Sutra to Bhadrabahu. The work includes biographies of Tirthankaras, monastic genealogies and regulations connected especially with the Paryushana season.
Q59. How many Tirthankaras are traditionally believed to have preceded Mahavira?
[SSC Selection Post – 2022]
A. 21
B. 22
C. 23
D. 24
Answer: C. 23
Explanation: Mahavira is the twenty-fourth Tirthankara, meaning twenty-three preceded him. Parshvanatha immediately precedes him as the twenty-third, while Rishabhanatha stands first.
Q58. The Dilwara Jain temples are located in which state?
[Allahabad High Court ARO – 2021]
A. Rajasthan
B. Gujarat
C. Bihar
D. Odisha
Answer: A. Rajasthan
Explanation: Dilwara temples are situated near Mount Abu in Rajasthan’s Sirohi district. Their highly refined marble carving represents a major achievement of medieval western Indian Jain architecture.
Q57. Mahavira breathed his last at:
[Allahabad High Court ARO – 2021]
A. Vaishali
B. Rajgir
C. Pavapuri
D. Kushinagar
Answer: C. Pavapuri
Explanation: Pavapuri in Bihar is traditionally identified as the place of Mahavira’s nirvana. The Jal Mandir there is one of Jainism’s best-known sacred monuments.
Q56. Mahavira was born in present-day which state?
[SSC GD – 2021]
A. Bihar
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Rajasthan
D. Gujarat
Answer: A. Bihar
Explanation: Mahavira’s traditional birthplace, Kundagrama near Vaishali, lies in present-day Bihar, which was an important centre of both Jain and Buddhist activity during the sixth century BCE.
Q55. Who presided over the Jain council at Vallabhi that finalized the Śvetāmbara canon?
[UGC NET History – 2021]
A. Sthulabhadra
B. Bhadrabahu
C. Devardhigani Kshamashramana
D. Hemachandra
Answer: C. Devardhigani Kshamashramana
Explanation: Śvetāmbara tradition associates Devardhigani Kshamashramana with the Vallabhi council, where the surviving canonical material was collected and fixed in written form.
Q54. Anekāntavāda and Syādvāda are doctrines associated with:
[RPSC RAS Prelims – 2021]
A. Jainism
B. Buddhism
C. Nyaya
D. Vedanta
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: Anekāntavāda concerns the many-sided character of reality, while Syādvāda formulates qualified judgments. Both became distinctive components of sophisticated Jain logic and epistemology.
Q53. Aparigraha in Jain ethics means:
[UPRVUNL JE – 2021]
A. Non-acquisition or non-possession
B. Meditation
C. Sacrifice
D. Pilgrimage
Answer: A. Non-acquisition or non-possession
Explanation: Aparigraha requires freedom from excessive possessions and attachment. Jain ethics regards attachment as a major source of passions that bind karmic matter to the soul.
Q52. Which of the following Tirthankara–nirvana-place pairs is NOT correctly matched?
[UPPSC PCS – 2021]
A. Rishabhanatha – Kailasa
B. Mahavira – Pavapuri
C. Parshvanatha – Sammed Shikhar
D. Vasupujya – Sammed Shikhar
Answer: D. Vasupujya – Sammed Shikhar
Explanation: Jain tradition associates Vasupujya’s liberation with Champapuri, not Sammed Shikhar. Sammed Shikhar is nevertheless revered because twenty other Tirthankaras are believed to have attained liberation there.
Q51. Mahavira attained salvation at:
[SSC MTS – 2021]
A. Pavapuri
B. Sarnath
C. Lumbini
D. Bodh Gaya
Answer: A. Pavapuri
Explanation: Pavapuri near Bihar Sharif is regarded in Jain tradition as Mahavira’s place of nirvana and remains a major pilgrimage destination centered on the famous Jal Mandir.
Q50. At what age did Mahavira renounce worldly life?
[DSSSB TGT Social Science – 2021]
A. 20
B. 25
C. 30
D. 35
Answer: C. 30
Explanation: Jain accounts place Mahavira’s renunciation at thirty. His subsequent prolonged ascetic practice ultimately culminated in Kevala Jnana, after which he taught for several decades.
Q49. Which Jain festival is observed for eight days by Śvetāmbaras and as ten-day Das Lakshana by Digambaras?
[SSC MTS – 2021]
A. Paryushana
B. Kartik Purnima
C. Navpad Oli
D. Jnan Panchami
Answer: A. Paryushana
Explanation: Paryushana is a major period of introspection and purification. Śvetāmbaras commonly observe eight days, whereas Digambaras observe the ten-day Das Lakshana festival.
Q48. Which statement concerning the early Jain community is NOT correct?
[RPSC Assistant Professor History – 2021]
A. Women entered the Jain order
B. Jain monastic communities included monks and nuns
C. Jainism spread among merchants
D. Jain monks always outnumbered Jain nuns according to the Kalpa Sutra
Answer: D. Jain monks always outnumbered Jain nuns according to the Kalpa Sutra
Explanation: Early Jain sources indicate a substantial female ascetic community; traditional numerical accounts can even show nuns exceeding monks, making an assertion of universal male numerical dominance incorrect.
Q47. Nigantha Nataputta of early Buddhist texts refers to:
[SSC CGL – 2021]
A. Mahavira
B. Buddha
C. Makkhali Gosala
D. Ajatashatru
Answer: A. Mahavira
Explanation: Pali Buddhist texts call Mahavira “Nigantha Nataputta,” corresponding to Nirgrantha Jnatiputra—an ascetic of the Jnatrika clan and leader of the contemporary Jain community.
Q46. The Vimal Vasahi temple at Dilwara is dedicated to which Tirthankara?
[RRB NTPC – 2021]
A. Adinatha
B. Parshvanatha
C. Mahavira
D. Neminatha
Answer: A. Adinatha
Explanation: Vimal Vasahi, the oldest major Dilwara temple, was built by Vimal Shah in the eleventh century and is dedicated to Adinatha or Rishabhanatha, Jainism’s first Tirthankara.
Q45. Mahavira principally preached his teachings in which language tradition?
[UP PGT History – 2021]
A. Sanskrit
B. Prakrit
C. Persian
D. Greek
Answer: B. Prakrit
Explanation: Jain teachers used popular Prakrit speech forms to reach wider audiences. Ardhamagadhi became especially important in the transmission of early Śvetāmbara Jain canonical literature.
Q44. Who became the principal leader associated with the Nirgrantha or Nigrantha sect?
[UP PGT History – 2021]
A. Mahavira
B. Ashoka
C. Nagarjuna
D. Patanjali
Answer: A. Mahavira
Explanation: Contemporary Buddhist literature identifies Mahavira as Nigantha Nataputta, leader of the Niganthas. The term indicates freedom from bonds and corresponds to the early Jain ascetic tradition.
Q43. Why did strict Jain ethics traditionally discourage occupations involving extensive harm to living beings?
[UPPSC GIC Lecturer – 2021]
A. Because Jainism stresses ahimsa
B. Because Jainism prohibited trade
C. Because Jainism rejected karma
D. Because Jainism required military service
Answer: A. Because Jainism stresses ahimsa
Explanation: Jain ahimsa extends to very small forms of life. Occupations involving killing animals or disturbing numerous living organisms could therefore pose serious ethical problems for strict practitioners.
Q42. Which Rashtrakuta ruler is particularly remembered as a patron of Digambara Jainism?
[UPPSC GIC Lecturer – 2021]
A. Dantidurga
B. Amoghavarsha I
C. Krishna III
D. Govinda III
Answer: B. Amoghavarsha I
Explanation: Amoghavarsha I patronized Jain scholars including Jinasena and was strongly influenced by Jain religious thought, making his reign important in the cultural history of Deccan Jainism.
Q41. What was Lord Mahavira’s original name?
[RRB NTPC – 2020]
A. Ananda
B. Siddhartha
C. Sariputta
D. Vardhamana
Answer: D. Vardhamana
Explanation: Mahavira’s personal name was Vardhamana. Titles such as Mahavira, Jina and Kevalin reflect his later spiritual achievements and status in Jain religious tradition.
Q40. Jinasena, author of the Adipurana, was associated with the court of which ruler?
[MH SET History – 2020]
A. Harsha
B. Amoghavarsha I
C. Kanishka
D. Rajaraja I
Answer: B. Amoghavarsha I
Explanation: Digambara Jain scholar Jinasena received Rashtrakuta patronage, particularly under Amoghavarsha I. His literary activity illustrates the flourishing of Jain scholarship in the early medieval Deccan.
Q39. Which famous temple complex is located at Mount Abu?
[SSC Stenographer – 2020]
A. Dilwara Temples
B. Shore Temple
C. Jagannath Temple
D. Brihadisvara Temple
Answer: A. Dilwara Temples
Explanation: The Dilwara temples at Mount Abu constitute a celebrated Jain complex famous for white marble construction and exceptionally detailed architectural and sculptural ornamentation.
Q38. Mahavira lived principally during which century BCE?
[Delhi Police Constable – 2020]
A. 10th century BCE
B. 8th century BCE
C. 6th century BCE
D. 2nd century BCE
Answer: C. 6th century BCE
Explanation: Mahavira is placed broadly in the sixth century BCE, the era of expanding states, urbanization and Śramaṇa movements that also produced or strengthened other heterodox traditions.
Q37. The marble-carved Dilwara Jain temples are situated at:
[Delhi Police Constable – 2020]
A. Mount Abu
B. Pushkar
C. Jodhpur
D. Ujjain
Answer: A. Mount Abu
Explanation: Dilwara’s five Jain shrines near Mount Abu were created over several centuries and are especially renowned for sophisticated ceilings, pillars, domes and figurative marble carving.
Q36. Mahavira was born in present-day:
[SSC JE – 2020]
A. Bihar
B. Punjab
C. Gujarat
D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: A. Bihar
Explanation: Mahavira’s birthplace, traditionally Kundagrama near Vaishali, lies within modern Bihar, a major centre of religious and political transformation during the sixth century BCE.
Q35. Which of the following is a sect of Jainism?
[Delhi Police Constable – 2020]
A. Digambara
B. Hinayana
C. Mahayana
D. Vajrayana
Answer: A. Digambara
Explanation: Digambara and Śvetāmbara are Jainism’s two major sectarian traditions. Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana instead belong to the historical classification of Buddhist traditions.
Q34. Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, important to the history of Jainism, are located in:
[SSC CPO – 2020]
A. Odisha
B. Bihar
C. Maharashtra
D. Gujarat
Answer: A. Odisha
Explanation: These ancient rock-cut caves lie near Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Many were created for Jain ascetics during the period associated with Kharavela of Kalinga.
Q33. Ayodhya is traditionally regarded as the birthplace of which Jain Tirthankaras, among others?
[SSC CHSL – 2020]
A. First and fourth
B. Twenty-third and twenty-fourth
C. Second and fifth
D. Twelfth and thirteenth
Answer: A. First and fourth
Explanation: Jain tradition associates Ayodhya with the births of several Tirthankaras, including the first, Rishabhanatha, and the fourth, Abhinandananatha, giving the city major Jain significance.
Q32. Which philosophical/religious traditions rejected the authority of the Vedas?
[UGC NET – 2020]
A. Buddhism, Jainism and Charvaka
B. Mimamsa, Vedanta and Nyaya
C. Vedanta and Yoga only
D. Mimamsa only
Answer: A. Buddhism, Jainism and Charvaka
Explanation: Buddhism, Jainism and Charvaka are conventionally categorized as Nastika systems because they do not accept the Vedas as infallible or authoritative revelation.
Q31. The doctrine of Triratna—Right Faith, Right Knowledge and Right Conduct—is associated with:
[BPSC Prelims – 2020]
A. Jainism
B. Islam
C. Sikhism
D. Zoroastrianism
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: Jain liberation requires the coordinated cultivation of Samyak Darshana, Samyak Jnana and Samyak Charitra. These three together are known as Ratnatraya or the Three Jewels.
Q30. Who was the twenty-third Tirthankara of Jainism?
[Bihar Police SI – 2019]
A. Mahavira
B. Rishabhanatha
C. Parshvanatha
D. Neminatha
Answer: C. Parshvanatha
Explanation: Parshvanatha is traditionally the twenty-third Jain Tirthankara and is represented by a serpent emblem. He is considered the immediate predecessor of Mahavira in the Tirthankara sequence.
Q29. Which of the following is NOT one of Jainism’s Triratna?
[Telangana High Court Examiner – 2019]
A. Right Faith
B. Right Knowledge
C. Right Conduct
D. Right Food
Answer: D. Right Food
Explanation: Jain Triratna comprises Right Faith, Right Knowledge and Right Conduct. Dietary restraint follows from Jain ethics, but “Right Food” is not one of the formal Three Jewels.
Q28. According to Jain tradition, which religion did Chandragupta Maurya adopt later in life?
[Telangana High Court Junior Assistant – 2019]
A. Jainism
B. Buddhism
C. Sikhism
D. Sufism
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: Later Jain traditions associate Chandragupta Maurya with the teacher Bhadrabahu and migration to Shravanabelagola, where he is said to have undertaken the ascetic practice of Sallekhana.
Q27. The Jain vow “Achaurya” or “Asteya” means:
[SSC Selection Post – 2019]
A. Non-stealing
B. Non-violence
C. Celibacy
D. Non-possession
Answer: A. Non-stealing
Explanation: Asteya prohibits taking anything not willingly given. It forms one of Jainism’s five major ethical vows together with ahimsa, satya, brahmacharya and aparigraha.
Q26. Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves provide significant evidence for the historical spread of which religion in Odisha?
[OPSC OAS – 2019]
A. Jainism
B. Christianity
C. Sikhism
D. Islam
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: Numerous caves at Udayagiri-Khandagiri were intended for Jain ascetics. Their inscriptions and sculptural remains reveal strong Jain patronage in ancient and early historic Kalinga.
Q25. Mahavira was born in which present-day state?
[SSC MTS – 2019]
A. Bihar
B. Gujarat
C. Rajasthan
D. Karnataka
Answer: A. Bihar
Explanation: Kundagrama near Vaishali, Mahavira’s traditional birthplace, lies in Bihar. The region formed part of the dynamic political and religious landscape of sixth-century BCE northern India.
Q24. Vardhamana Mahavira was which Tirthankara?
[Maharashtra Talathi – 2019]
A. First
B. Twelfth
C. Twenty-third
D. Twenty-fourth
Answer: D. Twenty-fourth
Explanation: Mahavira is regarded as the twenty-fourth Tirthankara, following Parshvanatha. His preaching and organization helped shape Jainism’s historically documented community and doctrinal structure.
Q23. Which of the following is a fundamental Jain ethical principle?
[Kerala SET – 2019]
A. Aparigraha
B. Animal sacrifice
C. Vedic ritualism
D. Divine grace alone
Answer: A. Aparigraha
Explanation: Aparigraha, meaning non-possession or non-attachment, discourages accumulation and emotional attachment to material things, thereby helping reduce passions responsible for karmic bondage.
Q22. Dilwara Jain Temples are situated in which state?
[SSC CHSL – 2019]
A. Rajasthan
B. Odisha
C. Bihar
D. Maharashtra
Answer: A. Rajasthan
Explanation: Dilwara’s renowned marble temples are located near Mount Abu in Rajasthan. The complex contains shrines dedicated to Adinatha, Neminatha, Parshvanatha and other Tirthankaras.
Q21. Shravanabelagola, famous for the Gommateshwara statue, lies in which Karnataka district?
[SSC GD – 2019]
A. Hassan
B. Mysuru
C. Kodagu
D. Ballari
Answer: A. Hassan
Explanation: Shravanabelagola is located in Hassan district. Its monumental Bahubali image and extensive inscriptions make it one of southern India’s most historically important Jain religious centres.
Q20. The Kalpa Sutra is associated with which religion?
[APPSC Panchayat Secretary – 2018]
A. Jainism
B. Buddhism
C. Sikhism
D. Judaism
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: The Kalpa Sutra is an important Śvetāmbara Jain text containing biographies of prominent Tirthankaras, monastic genealogies and regulations particularly associated with the Paryushana period.
Q19. The philosophical doctrine of Syādvāda belongs to:
[CGPSC Civil Service – 2018]
A. Jainism
B. Buddhism
C. Vedanta
D. Samkhya
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: Syādvāda teaches conditional predication: any assertion describes reality only from a particular standpoint. It is closely related to Jainism’s broader doctrine of Anekāntavāda.
Q18. Mahavira was:
[RRC Group D – 2018]
A. The first Jain Tirthankara
B. The twenty-fourth Jain Tirthankara
C. The founder of Buddhism
D. A Mauryan emperor
Answer: B. The twenty-fourth Jain Tirthankara
Explanation: Mahavira was the twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara of the current Jain cycle. Jain tradition therefore recognizes twenty-three spiritual teachers before him.
Q17. An important reason for the rise of Jainism and Buddhism in the sixth century BCE was:
[RRC Group D – 2018]
A. Religious dissatisfaction with elaborate ritualism
B. European influence
C. Islamic expansion
D. Decline of all towns
Answer: A. Religious dissatisfaction with elaborate ritualism
Explanation: The new Śramaṇa movements challenged elaborate sacrifices, hereditary religious authority and ritual orthodoxy while offering alternative paths emphasizing ethics, renunciation, karma and personal spiritual discipline.
Q16. Who was the first Jain Tirthankara?
[SSC JE – 2018]
A. Mahavira
B. Ajitanatha
C. Rishabhadeva
D. Parshvanatha
Answer: C. Rishabhadeva
Explanation: Rishabhadeva or Adinatha is Jainism’s first Tirthankara. His traditional emblem is the bull, and he occupies a prominent position in Jain religious mythology and iconography.
Q15. Who travelled and preached extensively to propagate Jain philosophy in ancient India?
[SSC CHSL – 2018]
A. Mahavira
B. Ashoka
C. Kanishka
D. Kalidasa
Answer: A. Mahavira
Explanation: After attaining Kevala Jnana, Mahavira spent decades teaching across the eastern Gangetic region, gathering monks, nuns and lay followers into an organized fourfold Jain community.
Q14. Syādvāda is related to which religion?
[SSC CHSL – 2018]
A. Jainism
B. Sikhism
C. Islam
D. Christianity
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: Syādvāda is Jainism’s doctrine of qualified assertion. It recognizes that statements about reality can be true under certain conditions or viewpoints rather than absolutely and exhaustively.
Q13. The term “Tirthankara” is especially associated with:
[SSC CHSL – 2018]
A. Jainism
B. Buddhism
C. Sikhism
D. Zoroastrianism
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: Jainism recognizes twenty-four Tirthankaras—liberated teachers who rediscover and teach the path toward release from karma, rebirth and the cycle of worldly existence.
Q12. Which is the most fundamental ethical principle of Jainism?
[SSC CHSL – 2018]
A. Ahimsa
B. Animal sacrifice
C. Yajna
D. Idol destruction
Answer: A. Ahimsa
Explanation: Ahimsa, or non-injury, is applied with exceptional strictness in Jainism. It influences food, livelihood, monastic behaviour and everyday efforts to avoid harming living beings.
Q11. What was Lord Mahavira’s name before attaining spiritual distinction?
[SSC CHSL – 2018]
A. Vardhamana
B. Anshuman
C. Sudhakar
D. Somdutt
Answer: A. Vardhamana
Explanation: Mahavira was born as Vardhamana. Following his spiritual conquest and attainment of omniscience, titles including Mahavira, Jina, Kevalin and Nirgrantha became associated with him.
Q10. The First Jain Council or Jain Mahasabha was traditionally held at:
[SSC MTS – 2017]
A. Pataliputra
B. Sarnath
C. Taxila
D. Ujjain
Answer: A. Pataliputra
Explanation: Jain tradition places the First Council at Pataliputra under Sthulabhadra, associated with attempts to preserve and organize teachings following famine and migration of part of the community.
Q9. Who was the first Tirthankara of Jainism?
[SSC Stenographer – 2017]
A. Rishabhadeva
B. Mahavira
C. Parshvanatha
D. Neminatha
Answer: A. Rishabhadeva
Explanation: Rishabhadeva, also known as Adinatha, begins the traditional sequence of twenty-four Tirthankaras. Jain iconography identifies him by the bull or ox emblem.
Q8. Mahavira was born at:
[SSC CPO – 2017]
A. Kundagrama
B. Lumbini
C. Sarnath
D. Kushinagar
Answer: A. Kundagrama
Explanation: Jain tradition identifies Kundagrama near Vaishali as Mahavira’s birthplace. He belonged to the Jnatrika Kshatriya clan and was named Vardhamana at birth.
Q7. Match the Jain Tirthankaras with their traditional symbols:
A. Adinatha – Bull
B. Mallinatha – Water Jar
C. Parshvanatha – Snake
D. Sambhavanatha – Horse
[UPPSC PCS – 2017]
A. A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
B. A-2, B-3, C-4, D-1
C. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
D. A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
Answer: A. A-1, B-4, C-3, D-2
Explanation: Jain iconography assigns distinctive emblems to identify otherwise similar meditating Tirthankaras: Rishabhanatha has a bull, Mallinatha a water pot, Parshvanatha a serpent and Sambhavanatha a horse.
Q6. Who is traditionally regarded as the author of the Jain Kalpa Sutra?
[UPSSSC JE – 2015]
A. Bhadrabahu
B. Hemachandra
C. Nagarjuna
D. Vasumitra
Answer: A. Bhadrabahu
Explanation: The Kalpa Sutra is traditionally attributed to Bhadrabahu. It became especially important within Śvetāmbara Jainism and is ceremonially read during the annual Paryushana festival.
Q5. Who was the twenty-fourth Tirthankara of Jainism?
[SSC JE – 2014]
A. Rishabhanatha
B. Neminatha
C. Parshvanatha
D. Mahavira
Answer: D. Mahavira
Explanation: Vardhamana Mahavira occupies the twenty-fourth position in Jain tradition. Parshvanatha was the twenty-third, while Rishabhanatha or Adinatha is recognized as the first.
Q4. The famous Ranakpur Temple complex of Rajasthan is primarily associated with which religion?
[Rajasthan 3rd Grade Teacher – 2013]
A. Buddhism
B. Jainism
C. Sikhism
D. Islam
Answer: B. Jainism
Explanation: Ranakpur in Rajasthan’s Pali district contains a celebrated fifteenth-century Jain temple dedicated to Adinatha, famous for its elaborate plan and numerous intricately carved marble pillars.
Q3. Śvetāmbara and Digambara are the two principal sects of:
[Chhattisgarh Police SI – 2012]
A. Jainism
B. Buddhism
C. Sikhism
D. Shaivism
Answer: A. Jainism
Explanation: Śvetāmbara and Digambara developed as Jainism’s major sectarian traditions. Differences include monastic dress, canonical authority, religious practices and certain beliefs concerning liberation and Tirthankara biographies.
Q2. Jain philosophy holds that the world is created and maintained by:
[UPSC CSE Prelims – 2011]
A. Universal Law
B. Universal Truth
C. Universal Faith
D. Universal Soul
Answer: A. Universal Law
Explanation: Jain philosophy rejects a supreme creator God and regards the universe as beginningless and governed through its own inherent laws and eternal substances rather than divine creation.
Q1. Mahavira attained nirvana at which place?
[BPSC 45th Prelims – 2002]
A. Rajgir
B. Pavapuri
C. Vaishali
D. Bodh Gaya
Answer: B. Pavapuri
Explanation: Mahavira is traditionally believed to have attained final liberation at Pavapuri in Bihar. The sacred Jal Mandir at the site commemorates his nirvana and remains an important Jain pilgrimage centre.