History & Civics
Read the following excerpt and answer the questions that follow:
"The Upanishads contain two basic principles of Indian philosophy viz., karma and the transmigration of soul, i.e., rebirth based on past deeds. According to these texts real happiness lies in getting moksha i.e. freedom from this cycle of birth and re-birth." (Source :https://www.nios.ac.in/media/documents/SrSec315NEW/315HistoryEng/315HistoryEng_Lesson4.pdf)
(a) Explain concepts like Karma, Maya, and Mukti.
(b) Highlight their relevance in contemporary philosophy.
Vedic Period
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Answer
(a) Karma — Karma refers to the belief that every action has consequences. Good actions lead to positive outcomes, while bad actions result in suffering, influencing future rebirths.
Maya — Maya is the illusion of the material world, which distracts people from realizing the ultimate reality (Brahman). The world is seen as deceptive and not the true essence of existence.
Mukti — 'Mukti' means 'Salvation'. Mukti is the liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth. It is the attainment of eternal peace and union with Brahman by transcending karma and Maya.
(b) The Upanishads are a foundational source of Indian philosophy. They are an endeavour to explain numerous mysteries of life, to know about the relationship between the soul and the creator and to elucidate the theories of the Karma (Action), Maya (Illusion) and Mukti (Salvation) etc.
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