SarkariPYQ

SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 100

SSC CHSL - 12 Nov 2025 - Shift 2 • General Awareness • Q100

Back to paper

What does 'moksha' stand for in the fourfold objective of life according to Vedic philosophy?

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is Option 3: Spiritual Freedom.
Explanation:

  • In Vedic and Hindu philosophy, four major goals of human life are outlined; these are collectively known as 'Purusharthas'. Among these four Purusharthas, 'Moksha' is considered the ultimate and supreme goal.
  • Meaning of Moksha: The literal meaning of Moksha is 'liberation' or 'release'. It refers to spiritual freedom—a state where the soul, liberated from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara), merges with the Supreme Soul (Paramatma) or realizes its true nature.
  • Significance: It represents the cessation of ignorance and suffering, and the attainment of eternal bliss.
  • The Four Purusharthas (Goals) of Life:
  • According to Vedic philosophy, the fourfold objectives of life are as follows:
  • Dharma: Adherence to moral duties, virtue, and righteous conduct.
  • Artha: Material prosperity, livelihood, and the accumulation of wealth (Option 4). This is essential for sustenance.
  • Kama: The pursuit of desires, love, and pleasure (Option 1).
  • Moksha: Spiritual knowledge and liberation from the bondage of birth and death.

Analysis of Other Options:

  • Pursuit of desires (Option 1): This is known as 'Kama'.
  • Social status (Option 2): This is not a primary objective of the Purusharthas, although social prestige may be associated with the observance of Dharma.
  • Accumulation of wealth (Option 4): This is known as 'Artha'.

Additional Facts:
Chaturashrama: To facilitate the attainment of the Purusharthas, human life was divided into four stages (Ashramas): Brahmacharya (student/education), Grihastha (householder/Artha and Kama), Vanaprastha (forest dweller/inclination towards spirituality), and Sannyasa (renunciation/preparation for Moksha).
Shrimad Bhagavad Gita: The Gita outlines three primary paths to attaining Moksha—Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge), Bhakti Yoga (Path of Devotion), and Karma Yoga (Path of Action).
Potential Question for Upcoming Exams:
Question: According to Hindu philosophy, what is the total number of 'Purusharthas'?
Answer: Four (Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha). Question: Which is considered the 'Supreme Goal' (Param Purushartha) among the Purusharthas?
Answer: Moksha.
Question: The attainment of 'Artha' and 'Kama' is considered the primary objective of which Ashrama?
Answer: The Grihastha Ashrama.