What did kings often rewarded brahmanas with in the seventh century?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2: Land Grants.
Explanation:
- During the 7th century and the subsequent early medieval period, the most prevalent method used by Indian kings to reward Brahmins was the granting of land.
- Epigraphic Evidence: These land grants were typically inscribed on copper plates, which were handed over to the recipients of the land. These plates served as legal documents.
- Brahmadeya: Land gifted to Brahmins was referred to as 'Brahmadeya.' Consequently, large settlements of Brahmins emerged in various regions, such as the Kaveri Valley in South India and other areas.
- Rights: The recipients of these land grants possessed the authority to collect revenue from the allotted land. They were often exempted from taxes and also played a role in local administration.
Key Impacts of Land Grants (For Revision):
- Expansion of Agriculture: The land granted was often barren or forested; under the guidance of Brahmins, it was rendered arable, leading to an increase in agricultural production.
- Administrative Decentralization: Kings delegated some of their administrative and judicial powers to the grant recipients, thereby fostering trends akin to 'Feudalism.'
- Cultural Diffusion: These settlements served as centers for education, religion, and culture.
Other Important Terminology (From an Examination Perspective):
Agrahara: This term also referred to tax-exempt land or entire villages granted to Brahmins.
Devadana: Land gifted to temples.
Shalabhoga: Land granted for the maintenance of schools.
Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: On what medium were records of land donated to Brahmins maintained?
Answer: On copper plates.
Question: What term is used in Chola inscriptions to describe land gifted to temples? Answer: Devadana or Tirunamattukkani.
Question: What was the assembly of Brahmins called during the Pallava and Chola periods?
Answer: Sabha.