Which of the following statements about Jainism is/are correct?

1. The most important idea in Jainism is that the entire world is animated; even stones, rocks and water have life.
2. Asceticism and penance are required to free oneself from the cycle of Karma.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Jainism posits a unique animistic worldview where the entire universe is considered living. According to Jaina tradition, even inanimate objects like stones, rocks, and water possess life (jiva) [2]. This belief underscores the central principle of ahimsa (non-violence), as harming any element of nature is seen as harming a living being [2]. Furthermore, Jain doctrine teaches that the soul (jiva) is trapped in a cycle of birth and rebirth due to the accumulation of karmic matter [1]. To achieve moksha (liberation), one must stop the influx of new karma (samvara) and shed existing karma (nirjara). This process necessitates rigorous asceticism, penance, and austerities (tapas), which purify the soul and free it from material bondage [1]. Both statements accurately reflect core Jaina philosophical tenets regarding the nature of the world and the path to spiritual liberation.

Sources

1. [2] THEMES IN INDIAN HISTORY PART I, History CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings > 3.Beyond Worldly Pleasures The Message of Mahavira > p. 88
2. [1] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 3: Rise of Territorial Kingdoms and New Religious Sects > Tenets of Jainism > p. 40