Unit : 1

Introduction to Indian
Knowledge System
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):

1. The term "Indic Knowledge System" refers to:

a) Modern scientific discoveries. b) Knowledge systems developed in the Indian subcontinent.
c) Ancient Greek philosophies. d) Technological advancements.
2. Which of the following is NOT a major school of Indian philosophy?
a) Vedanta b) Nyaya c) Samkhya d) Taoism
3. Which of these religions originated in India?
a) Christianity b) Islam c) Buddhism d) Judaism
4. Which ancient Indian scholar developed mathematical concepts like zero?
a) Kalidasa b) Aryabhata c) Patanjali d) Buddha
5. The concept of "dharma" in the Indic Knowledge System is related to:
a) Non-violence b) Duty or righteousness
c) Meditation d) Material wealth
6. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of:
a) Mathematics b) Medicine c) Astronomy d) Metallurgy
7. Which of the following is NOT an Indian epic?
a) Mahabharata b) Ramayana c) Iliad d) Vedas
8. Which of the following promotes mental clarity, self-awareness, and inner peace?
a) Meditation b) Surgery c) Chemical Engineering d) Mechanical Engineering
9. Which of the following is a major school of Hindu philosophy, focusing on the nature of reality
(Brahman), the individual self (Atman), and the relationship between them?
a) Yoga b) Vedanta c) Samkhya d) Nyaya
10. The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path are central to which Indic knowledge system?
a) Jainism b) Sikhism c) Buddhism d) Ayurveda
11. The Indic Knowledge System is best described as:
a) Monolithic and unchanging. b) Static and isolated.
c) Diverse, complex, and holistic. d) Focused solely on religious practices.
12. Which of the following is a major focus of the philosophical schools within the Indic Knowledge
System?
a) Economic theories b) The nature of reality and consciousness
c) Political ideologies d) Technological innovation
13. Which of the following practices originated in India and is now practiced worldwide?
a) Calligraphy b) Ballet c) Yoga and Meditation d) Opera
14. Ayurveda primarily focuses on:
a) Advanced surgical techniques. b) Holistic health and natural remedies.
c) Chemical manufacturing. d) Space exploration.
15. Ancient Indian mathematicians contributed significantly to the development of:
a) Calculus b) Zero and decimal notation
c) Geometry d) Statistics
16. Indian literature includes works in which of the following languages?
a) Sanskrit b) Tamil c) Bengali d) All of the above
17. Indian art and architecture are known for their:
a) Minimalism b) Intricacy and beauty
c) Abstract expressionism d) Industrial design
18. In Indic philosophies, "dharma" refers to:
a) Wealth b) Duty or righteousness c) Pleasure d) Liberation
19. The Indic Knowledge System promotes:
a) Intolerance b) Exclusivity c) Tolerance and pluralism d) Dogmatism
20. The concept of interconnectedness of all beings is explored in:
a) Nyaya b) Vedanta c) Samkhya d) Vaisheshika
21. Which of the following is NOT considered a contribution of the Indic Knowledge System?
a) Algebra b) Trigonometry c) The concept of zero d) The theory of relativity
22. The traditional Indian system of medicine is known as:
a) Homeopathy b) Allopathy c) Ayurveda d) Naturopathy
23. Which of the following epics are part of India's rich literary heritage?
a) The Iliad b) The Odyssey c) The Mahabharata d) Beowulf
24. Ethical and moral principles in Indian knowledge systems emphasize:
a) Material wealth b) Power and authority
c) Dharma, ahimsa, and karma d) Individualism
25. The pluralistic nature of India is reflected in its:
a) Monolithic knowledge systems b) Homogenous culture
c) Diverse knowledge systems d) Uniform traditions
26. Which of the following is considered a source of inspiration from the Indic Knowledge System?
a) Solutions to life’s existential questions b) Guidance for people from all walks of life
c) Insights for addressing current challenges d) All of the above
27. The Indic Knowledge System provides insights into:
a) The nature of reality b) Consciousness c) The purpose of human life d) All of the above
28. Which of the following has been embraced worldwide for its transformative potential?
a) Karma b) Dharma c) Meditation d) All of the above
29. The Indic Knowledge System's contribution to mathematics includes:
a) The concept of zero b) The decimal system c) Both a and b d) Calculus
30. Which of the following is NOT a component of global cultural heritage from the Indic Knowledge
System?
a) Literature b) Art c) Architecture d) Modern technology
31. Yoga and meditation offer tools for:
a) Stress reduction b) Mindfulness c) Personal growth d) All of the above
32. The ethical teachings of the Indic Knowledge System emphasize:
a) Compassion b) Non-violence (ahimsa) c) Moral responsibility d) All of the above
33. The Indic Knowledge System promotes social harmony through:
a) Intolerance b) Respect for diverse viewpoints c) Coexistence d) Both b and c
34. The Indic Knowledge System has influenced:
a) Various cultures b) Philosophies c) Spiritual traditions d) All of the above
35. Intellectual exploration in the Indic Knowledge System has led to:
a) A single school of thought b) Various schools of thought
c) Limited philosophical debate d) Intellectual stagnation
36. Traditional knowledge within the Indic system often includes:
a) Unsustainable practices b) Sustainable practices
c) Environmental exploitation d) Resource depletion
37. The Indic Knowledge System has been a source of inspiration for:
a) Artists b) Scholars c) Thinkers d) All of the above
38. Vedanta is a major school of:
a) Buddhist philosophy b) Jain philosophy c) Hindu philosophy d) Sikh philosophy
39. Advaita, Dvaita, and Vishishtadvaita are sub-schools of:
a) Yoga b) Samkhya c) Vedanta d) Nyaya
40. Patanjali's Yoga Sutras are foundational to:
a) Nyaya b) Vaisheshika c) Yoga philosophy d) Mimamsa
41. Samkhya philosophy deals with:
a) Monism b) Dualistic nature of reality c) Atomic theory d) Linguistic analysis
42. Nyaya is a school of:
a) Logic and epistemology b) Metaphysics c) Ethics d) Cosmology
43. Vaisheshika philosophy is associated with:
 a) Non-absolutism b) The doctrine of maybes c) Atomic theory d) The Four Noble Truths
44. The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path are central to:
a) Jainism b) Buddhism c) Sikhism d) Hinduism
45. Anekantavada and Syadvada are concepts in:
a) Buddhism b) Jainism c) Sikhism d) Yoga
46. Sikhism emphasizes:
a) Polytheism b) Non-violence c) Equality of all humans d) Asceticism
47. Ayurveda focuses on the balance of:
a) Chemical elements b) Doshas (biological energies)
c) Planetary movements d) Economic factors
48. The Mahabharata and Ramayana are examples of:
a) Scientific treatises b) Classical Indian epics
c) Architectural styles d) Musical compositions
49. Indian art and architecture are known for their:
a) Simplicity b) Intricacy and spirituality c) Minimalism d) Modernism
50. Ethical and moral philosophy in Indic traditions emphasize:
a) Dharma (duty/righteousness) b) Karma (the law of cause and effect)
c) Both a and b d) Materialism
51. Vipassana and Transcendental Meditation have roots in:
a) Western philosophies b) Indic knowledge systems
c) Modern psychology d) European literature
52. Ancient Indian scholars contributed to:
a) The concept of zero b) The decimal system c) Astronomy d) All of the above
53. Indic knowledge systems include a wide array of:
a) Homogenous practices b) Spiritual practices and rituals
c) Uniform philosophies d) Limited traditions
54. Vedanta is primarily based on the teachings found in:
a) The Puranas b) The Vedas and Upanishads c) The Buddhist Sutras d) The Jain Agamas
55. Hatha Yoga, Raja Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga are paths within:
a) Samkhya b) Nyaya c) Yoga d) Mimamsa
56. Samkhya philosophy seeks to understand the distinction between:
a) Good and evil b) Purusha (eternal) and Prakriti (material)
c) Mind and body d) Cause and effect
57. Nyaya philosophy provides rules for:
a) Ritual performance b) Artistic expression
c) Critical thinking and debate d) Medical practices
58. Mimamsa focuses on:
a) Atomic theory b) The interpretation of Vedic texts
c) Cosmology d) Psychology
Fill-in-the-Blanks:

1. The term "Indic Knowledge System" refers to the collective body of knowledge, philosophies,
traditions, and practices that have developed over thousands of years in the ______________
______________.
2. Indic Knowledge System covers a wide range of fields including philosophy, spirituality, science,
mathematics, medicine, literature, art, and ______________.
3. India has a long history of philosophical thought, with major schools of philosophy such as Vedanta,
Nyaya, Samkhya, Yoga, and ______________.
4. India is the birthplace of major religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and ______________.
5. Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that focuses on ______________ health and natural
remedies.
6. Ancient Indian scholars like Aryabhata and Brahmagupta developed mathematical concepts such as
zero, ______________ ______________, and algebra.
7. The epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, as well as classical texts like the Vedas and
______________, are highly regarded.
8. Concepts such as ______________ (duty or righteousness) are central to many Indic philosophies.
9. Many Indic philosophies and traditions promote ______________, inclusivity, and respect for diverse
perspectives and beliefs.
10. The Indian Knowledge System provides profound insights into the nature of ______________,
consciousness, and the self.
11. India is the birthplace of yoga and ______________ practices.
12. Ancient Indian mathematicians made significant contributions to algebra, trigonometry, and the concept
of ______________.
13. Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, emphasizes a ______________ approach to health
and healing.
14. Indian art forms, including classical dance, music, and ______________, continue to inspire and
captivate.
15. Indian knowledge systems emphasize ethical and moral principles, such as ______________ (duty),
ahimsa (non-violence), and karma (the law of cause and effect).
16. The Indian Knowledge System has left a lasting impact on the world, influencing thought,
______________, and practices in various parts of the globe.
17. The philosophical traditions of the Indic Knowledge System offer profound insights into the nature of
______________, consciousness, and the purpose of human life.
18. The spiritual teachings of the Indic Knowledge System have provided guidance for individuals seeking
personal growth, ______________, and a deeper connection with the universe.
19. The Indic Knowledge System contributed to the development of mathematical concepts like
______________ and the decimal system.
20. The practices of yoga and meditation, originating from the Indic Knowledge System, have had a
profound impact on ______________ and ______________ well-being.
21. The ethical teachings of the Indic Knowledge System provide a framework for living a ______________
and meaningful life.
22. Many aspects of the Indic Knowledge System emphasize ______________, respect for diverse
viewpoints, and coexistence.
23. The Indic Knowledge System encourages ______________ exploration and open-ended inquiry.
24. Vedanta is a major school of Hindu philosophy that interprets the teachings of the Vedas, focusing on
the nature of reality (Brahman), the individual self (Atman), and the relationship between them. It
includes various sub-schools like Advaita (______________), Dvaita (dualism), and Vishishtadvaita
(qualified nondualism).
25. Yoga philosophy explores the nature of the mind, consciousness, and the path to ______________
through practices such as meditation, asanas (postures), and ethical principles.
26. ______________ is one of the oldest Indian philosophical systems that deals with the dualistic nature of
reality. It outlines a metaphysical framework involving the principles of purusha (consciousness) and
prakriti (matter).
27. Nyaya is a school of ______________ and ______________.
28. Vaisheshika is a philosophy that explores the nature of the material world and the categories of
______________ and attributes. It is closely associated with atomic theory.
29. Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha), is a major Indic knowledge system that
emphasizes the ______________ ______________ Truths and the Eightfold Path as a means to end
suffering and attain enlightenment.
30. Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that emphasizes ______________ (ahimsa), truth, and asceticism.
31. Sikhism is a ______________ religion that originated in the Punjab region.
32. Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that focuses on holistic well-being, including the balance of
the ______________ (biological energies), diet, and lifestyle.
33. Classical Indian literature includes epics like the ______________ and Ramayana, classical poetry, and
dramatic texts.
34. Indian art and architecture are known for their ______________ and spirituality.
35. Various Indic traditions emphasize ethical and moral principles, such as ______________
(duty/righteousness) and karma (the law of cause and effect), which guide individuals in their actions
and decisions.
36. Meditation practices like Vipassana, Transcendental Meditation, and ______________ have roots in the
Indic knowledge systems, promoting mental clarity, self-awareness, and inner peace.
37. Ancient Indian scholars made significant contributions to mathematics, including the concept of
______________ and the decimal system.
38. The Indic knowledge systems include a wide array of ______________ practices and rituals that vary
among different religious and philosophical traditions.
39. Vedanta is a philosophical system based on the teachings found in the ______________ and
Upanishads.
40. Yoga is a comprehensive system of physical, mental, and spiritual practices aimed at achieving
______________ and union with the divine.
41. Samkhya is a ______________ philosophical system that seeks to understand the distinction between
the eternal and unchanging (Purusha) and the material world (Prakriti).
42. Nyaya is a system of ______________ and ______________.
43. Mimamsa is a school of thought focused on the interpretation of ______________ texts and rituals.
True/False:

1. The term "Indic Knowledge System" refers to the knowledge systems that have developed in the
European subcontinent.
2. The Indic Knowledge System only covers spiritual fields.
3. Vedanta is one of the major schools of Indian philosophy.
4. Christianity originated in India.
5. Ayurveda focuses on holistic health and natural remedies.
6. Aryabhata developed the concept of zero.
7. The epics Mahabharata and Ramayana are not highly regarded.
8. Dharma is not central to Indic philosophies.
9. Indic philosophies promote tolerance and pluralism.
10. The Indic Knowledge System is static and has not evolved over time.
11. The Indic Knowledge System has had no impact on global thought.
12. The Indic Knowledge System encompasses a narrow range of disciplines.
13. The Vedas and Upanishads laid the foundation for various branches of knowledge.
14. The Indian Knowledge System is confined to a single perspective.
15. Vedanta explores the ultimate reality (Brahman).
16. Yoga and meditation have gained global recognition for their physical, mental, and spiritual benefits.
17. The decimal numeral system originated in India.
18. Ayurveda incorporates only herbal remedies.
19. Indian art forms do not inspire and captivate.
20. Indian knowledge systems emphasize ethical and moral principles.
21. India's knowledge systems are monolithic.
22. The Indian Knowledge System has influenced spirituality in other parts of the globe.
23. The Indian Knowledge System is irrelevant in contemporary society.
24. The Indic Knowledge System offers solutions to life's existential questions.
25. The philosophical traditions of the Indic Knowledge System offer insights into the purpose of human
life.
26. The spiritual teachings of the Indic Knowledge System have been embraced worldwide.
27. Ayurveda has not influenced modern holistic health practices.
28. The Indic Knowledge System contributed to the development of the concept of zero.
29. The artistic expressions of the Indic Knowledge System are not essential components of global cultural
heritage.
30. Yoga and meditation have had a profound impact on physical and mental well-being.
31. The ethical teachings of the Indic Knowledge System promote living a meaningless life.
32. The Indic Knowledge System emphasizes intolerance.
33. The ideas from the Indic Knowledge System have only influenced the Indian subcontinent.
34. The Indic Knowledge System encourages intellectual exploration.
35. Traditional knowledge within the Indic System includes sustainable practices.
36. The Indic Knowledge System has not been a source of inspiration for artists.
37. The Indic Knowledge System has relevance beyond its place of origin.
38. The Indic knowledge systems encompass a narrow range of traditions.
39. Vedanta interprets the teachings of the Vedas.
40. Advaita is a sub-school of Samkhya.
41. Yoga philosophy explores the path to self-realization.
42. Samkhya is one of the oldest Indian philosophical systems.
43. Nyaya is a school of logic and epistemology.
44. Vaisheshika is associated with linguistic analysis.
45. Buddhism emphasizes the Four Noble Truths.
46. Jainism emphasizes violence.
47. Sikhism is a polytheistic religion.
48. Ayurveda focuses on the balance of the doshas.
49. The Mahabharata is a classical Indian epic.
50. Indian art and architecture are known for their simplicity.
51. Indic traditions emphasize ethical and moral principles.
52. Vipassana is a meditation practice with roots in Indic knowledge systems.
53. Ancient Indian scholars made contributions to metallurgy.
54. Indic knowledge systems include a wide array of spiritual practices.
55. Vedanta is based on the teachings found in the Vedas and Upanishads.
56. Yoga aims at achieving self-realization.
57. Samkhya is a monistic philosophical system.
58. Nyaya is a system of logic.
59. Mimamsa focuses on the interpretation of Buddhist texts.
Short Questions:

1. Define the term "Indic Knowledge System."

2. Name four major religions that originated in India.
3. What are the aims of Yoga and Meditation practices?
4. What are the significant contributions of ancient Indian mathematicians?
5. Explain the importance of Ayurveda.
6. What is the concept of “dharma”?
7. Why is the Indic Knowledge System important?
8. What is Vedanta?
9. What does Jainism emphasize?
10. Name three examples of classical Indian literature.
11. What is the significance of cultural diversity in the Indic Knowledge System?
12. How has the Indic Knowledge System influenced global thought?
13. What are the key differences between Advaita, Dvaita, and Vishishtadvaita Vedanta?
14. Explain the dualistic nature of reality as described by Samkhya philosophy.
15. What is the role of logic and epistemology in Nyaya philosophy?
16. Describe the core teachings of Buddhism.
17. What are the central tenets of Jainism?
18. What are the key principles of Sikhism?
19. How does Ayurveda promote holistic well-being?
20. What are some examples of classical Indian literature and their importance?
21. How do Indian art and architecture reflect religious and cultural themes?
22. Explain the importance of ethical and moral philosophy in Indic traditions.
23. What are some meditation and mindfulness practices that originated in the Indic Knowledge Systems?
24. What advancements did ancient Indian scholars make in mathematics and science?
25. How do spiritual practices and rituals vary among different Indic traditions?
26. What is the foundation of Vedanta philosophy?
27. Describe the different paths within Yoga.
28. What is the focus of Mimamsa?
5-Mark Questions:

1. Define the term "Indic Knowledge System" and discuss its key characteristics.
2. Explain the importance of philosophy, spirituality, and ethics within the Indic Knowledge System.
3. Describe the contributions of the Indic Knowledge System to mathematics and science.
4. Discuss the role of Yoga and Ayurveda in the Indic Knowledge System, highlighting their impact on
health and well-being.
5. Elaborate on the significance of literature, art, and architecture in reflecting the values and beliefs of the
Indic Knowledge System.
6. Explain how the Indic Knowledge System promotes tolerance, pluralism, and cultural diversity.
7. Discuss the global influence of the Indic Knowledge System, providing examples of its impact on
various cultures and practices.
8. Describe the Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy, including its main sub-schools and their core tenets.
9. Explain the Samkhya and Nyaya systems, highlighting their key principles and contributions to Indian
philosophy.
10. Discuss the significance of ethical and moral principles in the Indic Knowledge System, with reference
to concepts like dharma, ahimsa, and karma.
11. Discuss the importance of the Indic Knowledge System in addressing contemporary challenges like
stress management, sustainable living, and holistic health.
12. Analyze the influence of Indic Knowledge Systems on the development of ethical and moral values, and
their relevance in modern society.
13. Compare and contrast the key features of Buddhism and Jainism as Indic Knowledge Systems.
14. Evaluate the contributions of ancient Indian scholars to mathematics and science, and their lasting
impact on these fields.
15. Explain the role of spiritual practices and rituals in the Indic Knowledge System, and how they vary
across different traditions.
16. Discuss the significance of texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Mahabharata, and Ramayana in
shaping the Indic Knowledge System.
17. Analyze how the Indic Knowledge System's emphasis on tolerance, inclusivity, and respect for diverse
perspectives contributes to social harmony and understanding.
18. Elaborate on the concept of "dharma" and its central role in the ethical and moral framework of the Indic
Knowledge System.
19. Discuss the interconnectedness between philosophy, spirituality, and cultural diversity within the Indic
Knowledge System.
20. Explain how the Indic Knowledge System serves as a source of inspiration for creativity, innovation,
and addressing life's existential questions.
 Unit : 2
The Vedic Corpus
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):

1. The word 'Veda' is derived from the Sanskrit root 'vid' which means:
a) To sing b) To sacrifice c) To know d) To meditate
2. Which of the following statements about the Vedas is NOT true?
a) They are considered the fountainhead of Indian culture.
b) They are believed to be the poetry of Gods.
c) Their actual dating is universally agreed upon by scholars.
d) They are revered as the basic scriptures in Hindu religious tradition.
3. The term 'Apauruseya' used for Vedas means:
a) They are authored by humans. b) They are revealed to rishis.
c) They are ancient scriptures. d) They are a collection of hymns.
4. The Vedas are also referred to as 'Shruti' because:
a) They are written texts. b) They are traditionally sung.
c) They are what is heard. d) They are a form of poetry.
5. The purpose of human life, according to the seers, is:
a) To engage in worldly activities. b) To perform sacrifices.
c) To attain purity of mind. d) To realize oneself and experience bliss by knowing the absolute truth.
6. Which part of the Vedic corpus provides ideas for contemplation and focus?
a) Karma-kanda b) Jnana-kanda c) Upasana-kanda d) Trayi Vidya
7. What is a common characteristic of Western works on Vedas?
a) They emphasize traditional and cultural dimensions.
b) They often ascribe to the Aryan invasion theory.
c) They focus on the practical applications of Vedic knowledge.
d) They primarily translate Sanskrit texts into English.
8. The oldest Veda is:
a) Yajurveda b) Samaveda c) Rgveda d) Atharvaveda
9. Which Veda is mainly focused on Yajña (sacrifices)?
a) Rgveda b) Yajurveda c) Samaveda d) Atharvaveda
10. The two major branches of Yajurveda are:
a) Rgveda and Samaveda b) Krsna-Yajurveda and Sukla-Yajurveda
c) Atharvaveda and Rgveda d) Kauthuma and Raņayanīya
11. Samaveda mantras are typically referred to as:
a) Yajus b) Rk c) Sama d) Atharvan
12. The origin of Indian classical music lies in:
a) Rgveda b) Yajurveda c) Samaveda d) Atharvaveda
13. The Atharvaveda priest is known as:
a) Hotr b) Adhvaryu c) Udgatr d) Brahman
14. Which Veda is believed to be a later addition to the original three?
a) Rgveda b) Yajurveda c) Samaveda d) Atharvaveda
15. The Atharvaveda deals with:
a) Only spiritual matters b) Worldly things and the 'here and now'
c) Only philosophical speculations d) Only rituals and sacrifices
16. The prayer in the Santi-sukta in Atharvaveda is for:
a) Only human beings b) All living organisms in the Universe
c) Only two-legged creatures d) Only four-legged creatures
17. Which of the following is NOT a thematic classification of ideas presented in the Atharvaveda?
a) Bhisajyani (Mantras which refer to various medicines for different diseases)
b) Ayusyani (Mantras for long life)
c) Upasana-kanda (Mantras for contemplation)
d) Rajkarmani (Mantras on political notions of the Vedic times)
Fill-in-the-Blanks:

1. The word 'Veda' is generally derived from the Sanskrit root 'vid' which means to __________.
2. The Hindu religious tradition has accorded the Vedas the _________ place in its canonical literature.
3. Vedas are considered the _________ of Indian culture and human civilization.
4. The actual _________ of the Vedas has been a subject matter for considerable debate.
5. Vedas are _________ (Apauruseya), meaning they are revealed to rishis.
6. The Vedic repository is preserved and transmitted through an _________ tradition.
7. Vedas are referred to as _________, which means 'what is heard'.
8. The Vedic knowledge was transmitted in an unbroken line of transmission from _________ to _________.
9. The purpose of human life is to realize _________, rid oneself of limitations and constraints, and experience
bliss by knowing the absolute truth.
10. In the Vedic corpus, the _________-kanda provides ideas for an individual to attain single pointedness of
the mind through contemplation and focus.
11. The word Upasana literally means _________ (Upa + asana).
12. The _________-kanda opens the mind of an individual to its limits and facilitates much deeper inquiry
about oneself.
13. The Western approach to the study of the Vedic corpus has been primarily in extracting the _________
material and publishing them afresh, with English commentaries.
14. Most of the Western works generally ascribe to the _________ theory.
15. As per the tradition it is held that the Vedas were originally three and they together were called the
_________.
16. _________ is the oldest, largest, and the main repository among all four Vedas.
17. The credit to organize the Vedic repository in the manner we understand it today goes to Krsna-Dvaipayana
popularly known as _________.
18. Vyasa organized the Vedic corpus into four major divisions: Rgveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and
_________.
19. The Rgveda priest is known as _________.
20. The lofty and interesting set of ideas that one finds in Rgveda promotes a high sense of _________ in
_________.
21. Yajurveda mainly focuses on _________.
22. The mantras in Yajurveda are mostly in _________ form.
23. The Adhvaryu-priest who is mainly charged with the performance of sacrifices makes use of the
_________.
24. The Yajurveda is divided into two major branches: Krsna-Yajurveda and _________-Yajurveda.
25. The word Samaveda is derived from the Sanskrit root, 'Sama' indicating 'to _________, _________ or
_________.
True / False:

1. The word Veda is derived from the Sanskrit root 'vid' which means to sing.
2. The Vedas are considered the fountainhead of Indian culture and human civilization.
3. The actual dating of the Vedas is universally agreed upon by scholars.
4. The term 'Apauruseya' used for Vedas means they are authored by humans.
5. The Vedas are also referred to as 'Shruti' because they are written texts.
6. The purpose of human life, according to the seers, is to attain purity of mind.
7. Upasana-kanda provides ideas for contemplation and focus.
8. The Western approach to the study of the Vedic corpus emphasizes traditional and cultural dimensions.
9. The oldest Veda is the Rgveda.
10. Yajurveda mainly focuses on rituals and sacrifices.
11. The two major branches of Yajurveda are Krsna-Yajurveda and Sukla-Yajurveda.
12. Samaveda mantras are typically referred to as Yajus.
13. The origin of Indian classical music lies in the Samaveda.
14. The Atharvaveda is believed to be a later addition to the original three Vedas.
15. The Atharvaveda deals only with spiritual matters.
16. The prayer in the Santi-sukta in Atharvaveda is for all living organisms in the Universe.
17. Rajkarmāni Mantras are exclusively related to the life of woman folk.
Short Questions:

1. What is the general meaning of the word 'Veda'?

2. What place do the Vedas hold in Hindu religious tradition?
3. How are the Vedas regarded in Indian culture and human civilization?
4. What is the Indian tradition's belief about the Veda?
5. What has been a subject matter of debate regarding the Vedas?
6. What is unique about the Vedic corpus in terms of knowledge attribution?
7. What does the term 'Apauruseya' mean in the context of the Vedas?
8. What role did rishis play in the discovery of Vedic mantras?
9. How was the Veda transmitted and preserved?
10. What does 'Shruti' mean in reference to the Vedas?
11. What is 'Shiksha'?
12. According to Vedic seers, what is the purpose of human life?
13. What is Karma-kanda?
14. What does the word 'Upasana' literally mean?
15. What does Upasana refer to?
16. What is the focus of Jnana-kanda?
17. What is a primary focus of the Western approach to studying the Vedic corpus?
18. What theory is commonly ascribed to in Western works on the Vedas?
19. What were the original three Vedas collectively called?
20. What is the distinction between Rk and Yajus?
21. Which is the oldest and largest Veda?
22. Who organized the Vedic corpus into four divisions?
23. Who was associated with the Rgveda?
24. What can be traced to the Rgveda?
25. What is a Hotr?
26. What do the Rgvedic hymns consist of?
27. What is the focus of Yajurveda?
28. What form are most of the mantras in Yajurveda?
29. Who is an Adhvaryu priest?
30. What are the two major branches of Yajurveda?
31. From what Sanskrit root is the word Samaveda derived?
32. What are the mantras in Samaveda referred to as?
33. How many branches does Samaveda currently have?
34. How is Samaveda used in a yajna?
35. What are the two parts of Samaveda?
36. How are the mantras of Samaveda related to music?
37. What does the word 'Atharvan' imply?
38. What is the job of the Brahman priest?
39. How many shakhas of Atharvaveda are known to have existed?
40. How is the Atharvaveda-samhita divided?
41. How many mantras are in Atharvaveda?
42. What is the foundation for the Sanatana-dharma?
43. What does the Vedic repository include?
44. What did prayers for prosperity and peace in the Vedas include?
45. What is required to succeed in our endeavors?
46. What does the Atharvaveda-samhita deal with more than the other Vedas?
47. What knowledge does Atharvaveda provide in detail?
48. Name a few categories under which content in Atharvaveda is classified.
5 Marks Questions:

1. Explain the significance of the Vedas in Indian culture and tradition. What are some of the key beliefs
associated with them?
2. Describe the concept of 'Apauruseya' in relation to the Vedas. How were the Vedic mantras discovered
and by whom?
3. Discuss the importance of the oral tradition in the preservation and transmission of the Vedas. What role
did phonetics play in this process?
4. Explain the division of the Vedic corpus into Karma-kanda, Upasana-kanda, and Jnana-kanda. What is
the focus and purpose of each Kanda?
5. Describe the four Vedas: Rgveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda. What are their primary focus
areas and significance?
6. Discuss the Western approach to the study of Vedas. What are some of the criticisms of this approach,
and what is the Aryan invasion theory?
7. Explain the role of Vyasa in organizing the Vedic corpus. How was the knowledge preserved and passed
down to future generations?
8. Describe the characteristics and significance of the Rgveda. What are some of the important Suktas
found in it, and what do they discuss?
9. Explain the structure and branches of Yajurveda. What is the role of the Adhvaryu priest, and what
topics does Yajurveda cover?
10. Describe the Samaveda and its connection to music. How is it divided, and what is its primary purpose
in a Yajna?
11. Discuss the unique characteristics of the Atharvaveda. How does it differ from the other three Vedas,
and what are some of its key concerns?
12. Explain the importance of unity and harmony in the Vedic teachings, as highlighted in the Atharvaveda.
Provide examples of mantras that emphasize these concepts.
 Unit : 3
Indian Philosophical
System