Brahmo Samaj: UPSC Prelims PYQ 2012
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Brahmo Samaj?
- It opposed idolatry.
- It denied the need for a priestly class for interpreting the religious texts.
- It popularised the doctrine that the Vedas are infallible.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- 1 only
- 1 and 2 only
- 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Statements 1 and 2 are correct
- The Brahmo Samaj was founded on 20 August 1828 by Raja Ram Mohan Roy (initially as the Brahma Sabha) with the aim of reforming Hinduism and promoting monotheism. The movement opposed idolatry and ritualistic practices, advocating the worship of one formless God. It was based on the twin pillars of reason and the teachings of the Vedas and Upanishads, and it rejected the authority of a priestly class, encouraging individuals to understand religious texts themselves and develop a direct relationship with God.
Statement 3 is incorrect
- The Brahmo Samaj attempted to reform the Hindu religion by eliminating wrong practices and establishing it on the worship of one God and the teachings of the Vedas and Upanishads. However, it rejected the doctrine of the infallibility of the Vedas.
- The movement suffered a setback after Roy’s death in 1833. However, Debendranath Tagore (1817-1905), the son of Dwarkanath Tagore (1794-1846), took on the unfinished work in 1843. Under his leadership, the Brahma Samaj movement assumed a new height and character. The tradition was carried forward after 1866 by Keshub Chandra Sen.
Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only; Difficulty Level: Medium
