Later Vedic Society marks a crucial phase in ancient Indian history, succeeding the Rigvedic period and preceding the emergence of major classical Indian civilizations. This period, roughly dated from around 1000 BCE to 600 BCE, witnessed significant developments in various aspects of society, economy, polity, and religion. As the Vedic people moved eastward and settled in the Gangetic plains, their lifestyle underwent transformations, influencing the trajectory of Indian civilization. In this context, let’s delve into 10 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) that explore the dynamics of Later Vedic Society, shedding light on its economic structure, political organization, and religious beliefs.
1. The Satapatha Brahmana and Taitriya Brahmana are the Brahmana texts of which Veda?
- Rigveda
- Yajurveda
- Samaveda
- Atharavaveda
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Correct Answer: Yajurveda
The Satapatha Brahmana and Taitriya Brahmana are indeed Brahmana texts associated with the Yajurveda. Brahmanas are a genre of ancient Indian texts that provide explanations and discussions of rituals found in the Vedas.
2. Which of the following Upanishads is written in prose?
- Isa
- Katha
- Brihadaranyaka
- Svetasvatara
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Correct Answer: Brihadaranyaka
The Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, one of the major Upanishads in Hindu philosophy, is written in prose. This Upanishad is renowned for its profound philosophical teachings and exploration of concepts related to the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman).
3. Which one is the longest epic of the world?
- Ramayana
- Ramcharitmanas
- Mahabharata
- Hanuman Chalisa
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Correct Answer: Mahabharata
The Mahabharata, often regarded as the longest epic in the world, consists of approximately 100,000 shlokas (verses). This epic narrates the legendary Kurukshetra war and encompasses a wide range of stories, dialogues, and teachings.
4. One of the writers of the Dharmashastra disapproved the practice of Sati, declaring it as an act of suicide. Identify him from the given options:
- Angiras
- Medhatithi
- Usana
- Vishnu
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Correct Answer: Medhatithi
Medhatithi, a notable commentator on the Manusmriti, indeed disapproved of the practice of Sati. He considered it equivalent to suicide and expressed his objections in his commentary on this ancient legal and ethical text.
5. Vidushaka, a common character in Sanskrit drama, is associated with which varna?
- Brahmana
- Kshatriya
- Vaishya
- Shudra
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Correct Answer: Brahmana’
In classical Sanskrit drama, Vidushaka is a character typically depicted as a Brahmana. Vidushaka serves as the confidant or attendant to the hero and often provides comic relief in the dramatic narrative.
6. Which of the following are ritualistic teachings attached to the hymns of the Vedas?
- Brahmanas
- Upanishads
- Aranyakas
- Itihasas
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Correct Answer: Brahmanas
The ritualistic teachings attached to the hymns of the Vedas are known as Brahmanas. These texts explain the rituals, sacrifices, and ceremonies described in the Vedas, offering insights into their practical application.
7. Who was the founder of Yoga philosophy?
- Jaimini
- Kapila
- Akshapada Gautam
- Patanjali
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Correct Answer: Patanjali
Patanjali is considered the founder of Yoga philosophy. His work, the “Yoga Sutras of Patanjali,” is a foundational text of the Yoga school of Hinduism, providing a systematic and philosophical framework for the practice of yoga and spiritual development.
8. Which of the following is the oldest Smriti?
- Manu Smriti
- Yajnavalkya Smriti
- Narada Smriti
- Brihaspati Smriti
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Correct Answer: Manu Smriti
Manu Smriti, also known as the Manusmriti, is considered one of the oldest and most influential Smriti texts. It is a code of conduct and legal guidelines that address various aspects of life and social order in ancient India.
9. Which of the following Vedangas is related to metrics?
- Kalpa
- Nirukta
- Chhanda
- Shiksha
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Correct Answer: Chhanda
Chhanda is one of the Vedangas related to metrics. It deals with the study of poetic meters and prosody, providing rules and guidelines for composing Vedic and classical Sanskrit poetry.
10. Which of the Brahmanas states ‘wife is half her husband’?
- Satapatha Brahmana
- Aitareya Brahmana
- Gopatha Brahmana
- Taittiriya Brahmana
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Correct Answer: Satapatha Brahmana
The Satapatha Brahmana states that the wife is considered half of her husband and completes him. This concept reflects the traditional patriarchal view of marriage in ancient India, where a wife’s role was often seen as complementary to that of her husband.
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