Sacred Geography

Previous Year Questions Analysis

Archived:

Match list-I with list-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
List-I
A. Jainism, B. Hinduism, C. Islam, D. Christianity
List-II
1. Madina, 2. Vatican, 3. Pavapuri, 4. Varanasi

[MPPCS (Spl) (Pre) 2004]

⚡ Generate AI Quick Summary

Correct Option: C

The correct matches are: Jainism - Pavapuri, Hinduism - Varanasi, Islam - Madina, and Christianity - Vatican. Each represents a primary pilgrimage site for its respective faith.

A. A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2
B. A-1, B-2, C-4, D-3
C. A-3, B-4, C-1, D-2
D. A-2, B-3, C-1, D-4

Analysis & Evidence

Concept


Sacred geography identifies specific locations as centers of spiritual power or historical significance for different faith traditions.

Authentic Source Evidence


Pavapuri is where Mahavira attained Nirvana. Varanasi is the sacred city of Shiva. Madina is the second holiest city in Islam. Vatican City is the spiritual heart of the Catholic Church.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Jainism (A-3) is linked to Pavapuri, the site of Lord Mahavira's cremation.

  • Logic 2: Hinduism (B-4) is deeply connected to Varanasi (Kashi), the abode of Shiva.

  • Logic 3: Islam (C-1) holds Madina in high esteem as the site of Muhammad's tomb and early community.

  • Logic 4: Christianity (D-2) centers its papal authority and historical links to St. Peter in the Vatican.
  • Historical Logic Quest

    "What is the historical significance of Pavapuri in Jainism?"

    It is the 'Sinless Town' where the 24th Tirthankara, Mahavira, attained Moksha (liberation) in 468 BCE.

    The Topper's Edge

    "These sites serve not just as religious centers but as repositories of world architectural and cultural heritage."

    Analysing the UPSC previous year question paper is non-negotiable for serious aspirants. Thoroughly solving and analyzing these questions helps you decode the examiner's mindset, identify recurring historical themes, and build the analytical intuition needed to clear the exam. Practise UPSC PYQ here with interactive question sets to learn and sharpen your edge!

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