Jainism

According to the Jain philosophy , the world is created and maintained by a universal law known as Dharma . Dharma is the fundamental principle that governs the universe and everything that exists within it. Dharma is believed to be eternal and unchanging, and it is the same for all living beings.

Buddhism advocated the middle path i.e. avoidance of extremities of penance and enjoyment. On the other hand, Jainism advocated extreme penance and asceticism. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect. Both Buddhism and Jainism rejected the authority of the Vedas, the sacred scriptures of Hinduism. They did not consider the Vedas as the ultimate source of religious authority and guidance. Denial of the efficacy of rituals. Thus, statement 2 is correct. Both Buddhism and Jainism emphasized inner spiritual development and moral conduct over external rituals and sacrifices. They taught that liberation (moksha) could be achieved through the right understanding, ethical behaviour, and mental discipline rather than ritualistic practices. Thus, statement 3 is also correct.

Jainisms, Indian religion teaching a path to spiritual purity and enlightenment through disciplined nonviolence (ahimsa, literally noninjury) to all living creatures. **Statement 1 is correct:** The annihilation (nirjara) of karma comes about through penance. **Statement 2 is correct:** Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of entities such as stones, rocks, running water, and many other natural objects not looked upon as living by other sects. **Statement 3 is correct:** The Jaina holds that every living and non-living being is gifted with souls. They are obstructed by karma, just as the natural light of the sun is hindered by clouds. By removing the karma, a soul can remove bondage and regain its natural perfections.

The Sthanakvasi sect is a subsect of Jainism. It is known for its emphasis on ascetic practices and the abandonment of idol worship. Members of the Sthanakvasi sect believe in the concept of Sthanak or a place for meditation, hence the name "Sthanakvasi," which translates to "those who dwell in a place for meditation." 

**Parivrajaka:** This refers to a wandering ascetic or religious mendicant who has renounced worldly possessions and leads a life of spiritual pilgrimage. **Shramana:** Shramanas were ascetics who practised austerity and self-discipline, they were not necessarily high-status priests. Shramana refers to a broader movement that includes Jainism and Buddhism, not limited to a specific religion or social hierarchy. Thus, statement 2 is incorrectly matched. **Upasaka:** An Upasaka refers to a lay follower of Buddhism, someone who observes the five precepts and practices Buddhism without becoming a monk.

* The statement "Souls are not only the property of animal and plant life, but also of rocks, running water and many other natural objects not looked on as living by other religious sects" reflects a core belief of Jainism. * Jainism emphasises the principle of **Anekantavada**, which means "many-sidedness" or "multiplicity of viewpoints." This philosophy acknowledges the existence of souls (jivas) in all living beings and even some non-living things. * By emphasizing on the principle of respect for all life, Jains believe in ahimsa (non-violence) and strive to minimise harm to all living beings, including even microorganisms and plants. Extending this principle to seemingly inanimate objects reflects their reverence for all existence.