Which of the following were reasons for the rise of sramana tradition?
1. Kshatriya reaction against the domination of the brahmanas
2. Spread of a new agricultural economy
3. Rising status of the vaishyas
4. Reaction against Vedic Ritualism
5. Philosophical nature of Upanishads
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a). 1,3, 4 and 5 only
(b). 2, 3 and 4 only
(c). 3, 4 and 5 only
(d). 1,2 ,3, 4 and 5
Explanation
The Śramaṇa tradition refers to the non-Vedic, ascetic movements that emerged in ancient India during the sixth century B.C., including Jainism, Buddhism, and Ājīvikism. The rise of the Śramaṇa tradition was influenced by several factors:
The varna-based social order during the vedic period appears to have created tensions. While the responses of the Vaishyas and Shudras remain unclear, the Kshatriyas, as rulers, strongly opposed the Brahmanas' ritual dominance and birth-based privileges. Their resistance played a key role in the emergence of new religious movements.
The rise of new religions was primarily driven by the expansion of agriculture in northeastern India. The iron ploughshare-based farming depended on bullocks, making animal husbandry essential. However, the Vedic practice of cattle sacrifice hindered agricultural progress. To ensure the stability of the new agrarian economy, such killings had to be stopped.This led to rise of new religions in Northern India.
The growth of trade led to the improvement in the economic conditions of the Vaisyas. As a result, they wanted to enhance their social status but the orthodox Varna system did not allow this. Therefore, they began to extend support to Buddhism and Jainism.
The complex rituals and sacrifices advocated in the Later Vedic period were not acceptable to the common people. The sacrificial ceremonies were also found to be too expensive.
The teachings of Upanishads, an alternative to the system of sacrifices, were highly philosophical in nature and therefore not easily understood by all. Therefore, what was needed in the larger interests of the people was a simple, short and intelligible way to salvation for all people.
Hence all five given factors were responsible for the rise of sharmana traditions in 6th century BC.
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