Question

Read the following source carefully and answer the questions that follow:

The Therigatha This unique Buddhist text, part of the Sutta Pitaka, is a collection of verses composed by bhikkhunis. It provides an insight into women’s social and spiritual experiences. Punna, a dasi or slave woman, went to the river each morning to fetch water for her master’s household. There she would daily see a Brahmans performing bathing rituals. One morning she spoke to him. The following are verses composed by Punna, recording her conversation with the Brahmana: I am a water carrier  Even in the cold  I have always gone down to the water  frightened of punishment Or the angry words of high class women. So what are you afraid of Brahmana. That makes you go down to the water (Though) your limbs shake with the bitter cold? The Brahmana replied: I am doing good to prevent evil; anyone young or old who has done something bad is freed by washing in water. Punna said: Whoever told you You are freed from evil by washing in the water?... In that case all the frogs and turtles Would go to heaven, and so would the water snakes and crocodiles! (Instead) Don’t do that, thing. the fear of which leads you to the water Stop now Brahmana! Save your skin from the cold...

1. Explain the ideas of Punna with two examples.  2
2. What justification did the Brahmana give for his daily dip in river?  2
3. Explain the core of Buddhist philosophy that is being conveyed through their Gatha.  2

Answer 1

1. 1. She was against the Brahmanical rituals. 
   2. She explained the essence of spirituality lies in eternal bliss.
   3. She laid emphasis on purity of soul. 
2. 1. Bathing rituals could prevent evils. 
   2. Anything bad could be washed away by bathing in water. 
3. 1. Buddha condemned caste system and rituals.
   2. Buddha urged people to seek enlightenment through spiritual experience.
   3. The importance paid to conduct and values rather than rituals.