In which of the following religions was the agriculture prohibited for its followers?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. Jainism.
In Jainism, agriculture was traditionally prohibited for its followers, especially for ascetics, because it involves violence toward living beings. Jain philosophy emphasizes ahimsa (non-violence) to an extreme degree. Since agriculture involves plowing the soil, which can harm insects and microorganisms, it was seen as conflicting with the principle of non-violence. Therefore, Jains, especially monks and strict followers, often avoided farming and instead engaged in trade, business, or other non-violent livelihoods.
Incorrect Options:
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Shaivism – A sect of Hinduism focused on worship of Shiva; agriculture is not prohibited.
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Buddhism – Monks depend on alms, but agriculture is not prohibited for lay followers.
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Vaishnavism – Another sect of Hinduism devoted to Vishnu; it does not prohibit agriculture.