Class 6 History Notes – New Questions and Ideas
Introduction: The chapter “New Questions and Ideas” in Class 6 History explains the great changes that took place in Indian society around 2500 years ago. It was a time when many thinkers, philosophers, and teachers emerged in the Ganga Valley and other parts of the subcontinent. They raised new questions about life, death, truth, the nature of reality, and how society should be organized. This period witnessed the rise of two major religions — Buddhism and Jainism — along with the growth of the Upanishadic ideas. These ideas shaped Indian philosophy for centuries.
Background of the Period
By around 2500 years ago, cities had developed in the Ganga Valley, kingdoms had become stronger, and trade had expanded. Farmers used iron tools, which made agriculture more productive. However, social inequalities also increased. The varna system had become stricter, and people began questioning its fairness. This was a period of intellectual awakening.
Main Features of the Time
- Growth of mahajanapadas (large kingdoms).
- Use of iron ploughs and better farming methods.
- Rise of cities such as Rajagriha, Vaishali, and Pataliputra.
- Development of trade routes and markets.
- Increasing inequality between rich and poor.
- Emergence of wandering teachers and philosophers called shramanas.
The Upanishads – New Ideas in Hindu Thought
The Upanishads are a collection of philosophical texts that form the last part of the Vedas. They discuss deep questions about life and reality. The word Upanishad means “to sit near and learn,” referring to the tradition of students learning from a teacher through discussion.
Main Teachings of the Upanishads
- Brahman: The ultimate universal reality, present in everything.
- Atman: The individual soul, which is eternal and part of Brahman.
- True knowledge means realizing that Atman and Brahman are the same.
- Ignorance leads to suffering and rebirth.
- Detachment from material desires leads to liberation (moksha).
One of the famous Upanishadic thinkers was Gargi, a woman scholar who engaged in debates with male philosophers in King Janaka’s court.
Buddhism – The Path Shown by the Buddha
One of the greatest teachers of this time was Gautama Buddha, born as Siddhartha around 563 BCE in Lumbini (present-day Nepal). He belonged to a kshatriya family of the Shakya clan. He grew up in luxury but was disturbed by the realities of life after witnessing an old man, a sick person, a dead body, and a wandering holy man. At the age of 29, he left home in search of truth — this was known as the Great Renunciation.
Main Teachings of Buddha
- The Four Noble Truths:
- Life is full of suffering (dukkha).
- Suffering is caused by desire and attachment.
- Suffering can end if desires are overcome.
- The way to end suffering is by following the Eightfold Path.
- The Eightfold Path: Right View, Right Thought, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration.
- Buddha rejected the authority of the Vedas and the caste system.
- He emphasized compassion, non-violence, and equality.
Buddhist Sangha
The Sangha was the community of monks and nuns who followed the Buddha’s teachings. They lived simple lives, owned few possessions, and spread the dhamma through preaching and discussions.
Jainism – The Teachings of Mahavira
Another great teacher of the time was Vardhamana Mahavira, the 24th tirthankara of Jainism. He was born in a kshatriya family in Vaishali around 599 BCE. At the age of 30, he renounced his home and lived as an ascetic for 12 years before attaining kevala jnana (perfect knowledge).
Main Teachings of Jainism
- Belief in ahimsa (non-violence) towards all living beings.
- Strict ascetic life, with self-control and non-attachment.
- Rejecting the caste system and promoting equality.
- Five Great Vows for monks and nuns:
- Ahimsa – non-violence.
- Satya – truthfulness.
- Asteya – not stealing.
- Brahmacharya – celibacy.
- Aparigraha – non-possession.
Jain monks and nuns traveled barefoot and depended on alms for food. They avoided harming even the smallest insects.
Other Thinkers and Traditions
Besides Buddhism and Jainism, other shramana movements also developed. Teachers like Ajivikas believed in fate and the power of destiny. Some philosophers discussed the nature of reality, the existence of God, and the meaning of good conduct. These debates enriched Indian thought.
Monasteries and Learning Centers
During this time, many monasteries (viharas) were built for monks and nuns. These became centers of learning and discussion. Wealthy merchants and rulers donated land and money to support them. Students came from far and wide to learn philosophy, grammar, logic, and medicine.
Impact on Society
- Encouraged questioning and independent thinking.
- Promoted ideas of equality and non-violence.
- Challenged the rigid caste system.
- Laid the foundation for rich traditions of Indian philosophy.
Important Terms
- Shramana – A wandering monk seeking spiritual knowledge.
- Moksha – Liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
- Ahimsa – Non-violence towards all living beings.
- Sangha – Buddhist monastic community.
- Vihara – Monastery for monks and nuns.
Conclusion
The period of New Questions and Ideas was a turning point in Indian history. It gave rise to new ways of thinking, challenged old traditions, and promoted moral values that are still relevant today. The teachings of the Upanishads, Buddha, and Mahavira continue to inspire people across the world.
Class 6 History – New Questions and Ideas: Practice Questions
- What does the term “Upanishad” mean?
- Explain the concept of Atman and Brahman.
- Write the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism.
- What are the main teachings of Mahavira?
- Why did Buddha reject the caste system?
- What is the Eightfold Path?
- Who was Gargi and why is she famous?
- List the Five Great Vows of Jainism.
- What is the meaning of Ahimsa?
- What role did monasteries play in spreading new ideas?
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