Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 266

What is the cycle of rebirths (the process of reincarnation) called?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Think about the concept of reincarnation in Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

Correct Answer: B) Wheel of life.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railway, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The concept of the cycle of rebirths, known as the "Wheel of life" in Indian philosophy, is a fundamental aspect of Hinduism and Buddhism. This cycle, also referred to as samsara, is the continuous process of birth, death, and rebirth that an individual soul undergoes. The cycle is driven by the law of karma, which states that one's actions in this life determine the circumstances of the next life. The ultimate goal in these traditions is to break free from this cycle and achieve moksha, or liberation, which is the state of being free from the cycle of rebirths.

In Hinduism, the Wheel of life is often depicted as a wheel with various realms of existence, such as heaven, hell, and the human world, representing the different states one can be reborn into based on their karma. The cycle is seen as a result of the soul's attachment to the material world and its desires, which keep it trapped in the cycle of rebirths. The path to liberation involves living a life of dharma (righteousness) and accumulating good karma, which can eventually lead to the cessation of the cycle and the attainment of moksha.

In Buddhism, the Wheel of life is also a central concept, but it is often depicted with more specific realms and is associated with the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. The cycle is seen as a result of ignorance and craving, and the path to liberation involves the cessation of these root causes through the practice of the Eightfold Path, leading to the attainment of Nirvana, which is the state of liberation from the cycle of rebirths.

It is important to note that while the term "Wheel of life" is specific to Indian philosophy, other cultures and religions have similar concepts of rebirth and reincarnation. However, the term "Wheel of life" is not interchangeable with other terms like "Circle of life," "Wheel of fortune," or "Wheel of destiny," which have different meanings and contexts.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. "Circle of life" is a general term often used in popular culture to describe the natural cycle of life and death, but it is not the specific term used in Indian philosophy for the cycle of rebirths.
  • Option B: This option is correct. "Wheel of life" is the term used in Indian philosophy, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism, to describe the cycle of rebirths, which is driven by karma and the desire for existence.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. "Wheel of fortune" is a term associated with chance and luck, often used in games and gambling, and does not relate to the concept of reincarnation in Indian philosophy.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. "Wheel of destiny" is not a term used in Indian philosophy to describe the cycle of rebirths. Destiny is a concept related to fate, but it does not specifically refer to the cycle of rebirths.

Mnemonic: Remember "Wheel of life" as the "Wheel of rebirths" in Indian traditions.

Back to Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 266 – Practice all questions