CBSE Class 6 Social Science: New Questions and Ideas - NCERT Solutions

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This chapter, "New Questions and Ideas," for CBSE Class 6 Social Science delves into the significant philosophical and religious movements that emerged in ancient India. It explores the life and teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, focusing on his path to enlightenment and his message of overcoming suffering through the understanding of desire and karma. The solutions also cover the intellectual inquiries of the Upanishadic thinkers, who sought to understand the nature of existence, the soul (atman), and the universal spirit (brahman). Additionally, the chapter introduces the core principles of Jainism as taught by Mahavira, emphasizing ahimsa (non-violence). These NCERT Solutions provide clear explanations and answers to help students grasp these foundational concepts, aiding in their exam preparation and fostering a deeper understanding of India's rich intellectual history.

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BoardCBSE
ClassClass 6
SubjectSocial Science
Session2026
LanguageEnglish
TypeNCERT Solutions
ChapterHistory - Chapter 7 New Questions and Ideas

Chapter summary

Chapter 7, "New Questions and Ideas," for CBSE Class 6 Social Science focuses on the origins of Buddhism and Jainism, alongside the philosophical explorations of the Upanishads. The solutions cover the Buddha's methods of spreading his message, the core tenets of his teachings, and the questions that occupied Upanishadic thinkers. It also details Mahavira's emphasis on ahimsa and the renunciation required to seek truth. The exercises guide students to understand the relevance of these ancient ideas in contemporary times and explore the lives of those who choose a life of renunciation.

Learning outcomes

  • Understand the life and teachings of the Buddha.
  • Explain the key concepts of Buddhism, such as suffering, desire (tanha), and karma.
  • Identify the main questions and beliefs of Upanishadic thinkers.
  • Describe the fundamental principles of Jainism, particularly ahimsa.
  • Analyze the methods used by religious leaders to spread their messages.
  • Discuss the relevance of ancient philosophical ideas in the present day.

Topics covered

Paper topics

  • The Buddha's Life and Teachings
  • The Four Noble Truths (implied)
  • The concept of Karma
  • The concept of Tanha (Desire)
  • The Buddha's method of spreading his message
  • Upanishadic Philosophy
  • The concept of Atman
  • The concept of Brahman
  • Mahavira's Teachings
  • Ahimsa (Non-violence)
  • The Sangha
  • Life of Renunciation

Important topics

  • Buddha's teachings on suffering and desire
  • Upanishadic ideas about Atman and Brahman
  • Mahavira's principle of Ahimsa
  • The Buddha's use of Prakrit
  • The concept of Karma

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Questions and Solutions

Question 1

Describe the ways in which the Buddha tried to spread his message to the people.
Solution: The Buddha employed several effective methods to disseminate his teachings:
  1. Use of Vernacular Language: He consciously chose to preach in Prakrit, the common language spoken by ordinary people, rather than a more formal or scholarly language. This made his message easily understandable and accessible to everyone, regardless of their social standing or education.
  2. Focus on Practical Ethics: His teachings centered on practical aspects of life, such as understanding that life is often filled with suffering and unhappiness, which arises from 'tanha' (desire or craving). He emphasized the importance of 'Karma' – the idea that our actions have consequences in this life and future lives.
  3. Emphasis on Compassion and Non-violence: The Buddha advocated for kindness towards all beings and respect for the lives of others, promoting a path of ethical conduct and compassion.
  4. Simple Doctrine: His core message was relatively simple and focused on personal transformation and ethical living, making it relatable to the masses.

Question 2

Write whether true or false:
  1. The Buddha encouraged animal sacrifices.
  2. Samath is important because it was the place where the Buddha taught for the first time.
  3. The Buddha taught that 'Karma' has no effect on our lives.
  4. The Buddha attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya.
  5. Upanishadic thinkers believed that the 'atman' and 'brahman' were ultimately one.
Solution:
  1. False. The Buddha strongly discouraged animal sacrifices, advocating for compassion and non-violence instead.
  2. True. Sarnath (often referred to as Samath) is a significant site because it was there that the Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, setting the Wheel of Dharma in motion.
  3. False. The Buddha taught that 'Karma' (our actions) has a profound effect on our present and future lives.
  4. True. The Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, Bihar.
  5. True. A central philosophical concept in the Upanishads is the belief that the individual soul ('atman') and the universal spirit ('brahman') are ultimately identical.

Question 3

What were the questions that Upanishadic thinkers wanted to answer?
Solution: Upanishadic thinkers, who lived around 2500 years ago, were deeply philosophical and sought answers to profound questions about existence. Their main inquiries included:
  1. The nature of life after death: They pondered what happens to an individual after they die.
  2. The purpose of rituals and sacrifices: Some thinkers questioned the necessity and efficacy of the elaborate sacrifices and rituals that were prevalent at the time.
  3. The existence of something permanent: They felt that there must be something eternal and unchanging in the universe that survived even after death. This search led them to conceptualize the 'atman' (individual soul) and 'brahman' (the universal spirit), often believing them to be one.
These discussions and ideas were later compiled and recorded in texts known as the Upanishads.

Question 4

What were the main teachings of the Mahavira?
Solution: Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, taught a simple yet rigorous doctrine for those seeking ultimate truth:
  1. Renunciation: He emphasized that men and women who genuinely wished to attain knowledge and liberation must leave their homes and worldly possessions behind.
  2. Ahimsa (Non-violence): The most crucial teaching was 'ahimsa', which means not hurting or causing harm to any living being. This principle extended to thoughts, words, and deeds, and applied to all creatures, great and small.
  3. Simple Living: Adherents were expected to live a life of extreme simplicity, self-control, and detachment.
Mahavira's teachings aimed at achieving liberation from the cycle of birth and death through strict adherence to ethical principles, especially non-violence.

Question 5

Why do you think Armgha's mother wanted her to know the story of the Buddha?
Solution: Anagha's mother likely wanted her to learn about the Buddha's story for several reasons:
  1. Inspiration and Moral Guidance: The Buddha's life story is one of profound spiritual seeking, enlightenment, and a commitment to alleviating suffering. His journey and teachings can be highly inspirational, offering moral guidance and a positive example for a young person.
  2. Understanding Core Values: Learning about the Buddha helps children understand important values such as compassion, mindfulness, non-violence, and the pursuit of wisdom, which are beneficial for personal development.
  3. Cultural and Historical Context: The Buddha is a pivotal figure in history and culture. Knowing his story provides a foundational understanding of Buddhism and its influence on societies.
  4. Developing Empathy: The Buddha's message of understanding suffering and cultivating empathy for all beings can help a child develop a more compassionate outlook towards others.
By sharing the Buddha's story, Anagha's mother aimed to impart valuable life lessons and foster a thoughtful, ethical mindset in her daughter.

Question 6

Do you think it would have been easy for slaves to join the 'sangha'? Give reasons for your answer.
Solution: While the source text states that slaves were allowed to join the 'sanghas', it's important to consider the practicalities and the underlying philosophy.
  1. Buddha's Egalitarian Teachings: The Buddha's teachings fundamentally challenged social hierarchies and divisions. He taught that all humans are equal and that the 'sangha' should be a place open to everyone, irrespective of their social status, including slaves.
  2. Process of Joining: However, joining the 'sangha' typically required renouncing one's previous life and possessions. For a slave, this would have meant obtaining permission from their owner, which might have been difficult or impossible depending on the owner's willingness. Escaping slavery to join a 'sangha' would have been a significant act of defiance and risk.
  3. Formal Permission: In many monastic traditions, formal permission from a master or guardian was often required for individuals to join. This requirement could have posed a substantial barrier for enslaved individuals.
Therefore, while the 'sangha' was philosophically open to slaves, the practical process of leaving their bondage and obtaining the necessary permissions might have made it challenging for many to join.

Question 7

Make a List of at least five ideas and questions mentioned in this lesson. Choose three from the List and discuss why you think they are important even today.
Solution: Here are some key ideas and questions from the lesson:
  1. Life is full of suffering and unhappiness, often caused by unfulfilled desires ('tanha').
  2. Our actions ('Karma') have consequences in this life and future lives.
  3. We should not hurt or kill any living being ('ahimsa').
  4. What happens after death?
  5. Why should sacrifices be performed?
  6. Is there something permanent in the universe that lasts even after death? (The concept of 'atman' and 'brahman').
Discussion on the importance of three ideas today:
  1. Life is full of suffering and unhappiness due to unfulfilled desires ('tanha'): This idea remains highly relevant today. In a consumerist society, people often chase material possessions and experiences, leading to dissatisfaction and unhappiness when these desires are not met. Understanding that excessive desire can be a source of suffering encourages mindfulness, contentment, and a focus on inner peace rather than external validation.
  2. We should not hurt or kill any living being ('ahimsa'): The principle of non-violence is crucial in today's world, which faces conflicts, cruelty, and environmental degradation. Practicing ahimsa promotes empathy, respect for all life forms (including animals and the environment), and peaceful coexistence. It encourages ethical decision-making in personal interactions and societal issues.
  3. Our actions ('Karma') affect us: The concept of karma underscores personal responsibility. It reminds us that our choices and actions have repercussions, not just for ourselves but also for others. This understanding encourages ethical behavior, thoughtful decision-making, and a proactive approach to creating positive outcomes, fostering a sense of accountability in individuals and communities.

Question 8

Find out more about men and women who renounce the world today. Where do they live, what kinds of clothes do they wear, what do they eat? Why do they renounce the world?
Solution: This question encourages independent research and reflection. Here's a guide to preparing an answer: Research Areas:
  • Who Renounces: Identify different groups or individuals who choose a life of renunciation today. This could include monks and nuns in various religious orders (e.g., Buddhist monks, Christian monks/nuns, Hindu sadhus/sanyasins), members of spiritual communities, or individuals who adopt a minimalist, ascetic lifestyle.
  • Where They Live: They often live in monasteries, ashrams, convents, communes, or simple dwellings, often in secluded or peaceful locations away from mainstream society.
  • What They Wear: Their attire typically signifies simplicity and detachment from worldly fashion. This can range from saffron robes (sadhus), grey or maroon robes (Buddhist monks), to simple habits (nuns and monks in Christian traditions).
  • What They Eat: Their diet is usually simple, often vegetarian, and sometimes includes fasting or specific dietary restrictions based on their religious or spiritual path. The focus is on sustenance rather than indulgence.
  • Why They Renounce: The reasons for renunciation are diverse but generally stem from a desire for:
    • Spiritual growth and enlightenment.
    • Detachment from material possessions and worldly desires.
    • Service to humanity or a higher power.
    • Seeking inner peace and liberation from suffering.
    • Devotion to a particular religious or philosophical path.
Preparation: Consult your subject teacher for guidance on reliable sources and to discuss your findings. You can look for information in books about world religions, spiritual movements, or through reputable online resources.

Multiple Choice Questions

Choose the correct option to complete the statements given below:
  1. Buddhism was found by .....
  2. Jainism was founded by ......
  3. The Vinaya Pitaka is a sacred text of.....
  4. Buddha used ...... to communicate with people.
  5. The universal soul has been referred to as
  6. A woman Upanishadic thinker was
  7. Mahavira was the prince of the
Solution:
  1. (d) none of these. (The founder was Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha)
  2. (a) Mahavira
  3. (a) the Buddhists
  4. (a) Prakrit
  5. (b) 'brahman' (though 'atman' is also a related concept)
  6. (d) Gargi
  7. (a) Lichchhavis

Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the blanks with appropriate words to complete each sentence.
  1. The Buddha belonged to a small 'gana' called ......
  2. The Buddha got enlightenment at ......
  3. The Buddha used the word ....... for desire of worldly things.
  4. Satyakama Jabala was the son of a ...... woman called Jabali.
  5. The Prakrit spoken in Magadha was known as .....
  6. Jainism was initially supported by only the .....
  7. The teachings of Mahavira were written down for the first time about years ago.
  8. The earliest 'Viharas' were made of...... and of.......
Solution:
  1. Sakya
  2. Bodh Gaya
  3. 'tanha'
  4. slave
  5. Magadhi
  6. traders
  7. 1500
  8. wood, brick.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing the founders of Buddhism and Jainism.
  • Misunderstanding the concept of karma and its role in Buddhist philosophy.
  • Incorrectly stating whether animal sacrifices were encouraged or discouraged.
  • Failing to recognize the Upanishadic belief in the oneness of atman and brahman.

Revision tips

  • Create a timeline of key events in the lives of Buddha and Mahavira.
  • Make flashcards for important terms like 'tanha', 'karma', 'ahimsa', 'atman', and 'brahman'.
  • Compare and contrast the teachings of the Buddha and Mahavira.
  • Discuss with classmates why ancient philosophical questions are still relevant today.
  • Review the true/false questions to ensure a clear understanding of the facts presented.

Practice MCQs

Q1. Who is considered the founder of Buddhism?

Q2. What was the primary teaching of Mahavira regarding living beings?

Q3. Upanishadic thinkers were primarily concerned with answering which of the following questions?

Q4. Which language did the Buddha use to communicate his message to ordinary people?

Q5. The Upanishadic thinkers believed that 'atman' and 'brahman' were ultimately:

Q6. What does the term 'tanha' refer to in Buddhist teachings?

Frequently asked questions

What is the main focus of the CBSE Class 6 Social Science Chapter 7, 'New Questions and Ideas'?

This chapter focuses on the emergence of new philosophical and religious ideas in ancient India, primarily the teachings of the Buddha and Mahavira, and the intellectual inquiries of the Upanishadic thinkers.

How did the Buddha try to spread his message?

The Buddha used the common language of the people, Prakrit, to communicate his message. He taught about life's suffering, the desire for more, the concept of karma, and the importance of kindness and respecting life.

What were the key questions that Upanishadic thinkers sought to answer?

Upanishadic thinkers were interested in understanding life after death, the purpose of sacrifices, and the existence of something permanent in the universe that endures beyond death. They also explored the relationship between the individual soul (atman) and the universal spirit (brahman).

What is the central teaching of Mahavira?

Mahavira's central teaching was 'ahimsa', which means not hurting or killing any living being. He also taught that those seeking truth must renounce their homes.

Why are these ancient ideas still considered important today?

Ideas like non-violence (ahimsa), understanding suffering and desire, and the search for meaning are timeless and continue to be relevant for personal growth and societal harmony.

What does the term 'sangha' refer to in this chapter?

The 'sangha' refers to an assembly or organization, particularly the monastic communities established by the Buddha for monks and nuns who renounced worldly life.

Important links

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