Q. With reference to the cultural history of India, consider the following pairs:
| 1. | Parivrajaka | – | Renunciant and Wanderer |
| 2. | Shramana | – | Priest with a high status |
| 3. | Upasaka | – | Lay follower of Buddhism |
Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?
- 1 and 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only
Notes:
- The term “Parivrajaka” refers to renunciants and wanderers who left their homes to pursue spiritual goals.
- They practiced detachment from worldly life, wandering in search of spiritual knowledge.
- “Shramana” refers to ascetics and renouncers in ancient India, including monks and followers of various religious sects like Buddhism, Jainism, and Ajivikas.
- Shramanas were not necessarily priests with a high status; instead, they were often independent of the Vedic priestly tradition and were known for their ascetic practices.
- “Upasaka” is a term used to describe lay followers of Buddhism who adhere to the teachings of the Buddha but do not take full monastic vows.
- They support the Buddhist monastic community and practice certain moral precepts in their daily lives.