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Chapter 5 of 18
Revision Notes

Jainism and Buddhism — Revision Notes

ICSE · Class 9 · History & Civics

Jainism and Buddhism revision notes for ICSE Class 9 History & Civics: 4 topics in quick points. Part of the ICSE Class 9 History & Civics syllabus.

58 questions34 flashcards5 concepts

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An infographic illustrating the key socio-economic, religious, and political factors that led to the emergence and growth of Jainism and Buddhism in the 6th century BCE.
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Key Topics to Revise

1

1. Background: Why Jainism and Buddhism Rose

  • The 6th century BCE was a period of rapid social, economic, and political change.
  • Aryan settlements expanded eastward.
  • Iron tools helped clear forests and increase cultivation.
2

2. Jainism: Mahavira, Teachings, and Sects

  • Mahavira was born in Kundagrama near Vaishali in Bihar in the second half of the 6th century BCE.
  • His father was the chief of a Kshatriya clan, and his mother Trishala belonged to the Lichchavi royal family.
  • He was married to Yashoda to divert him from asceticism.
3

3. Buddhism: Buddha, Teachings, and Organisation

  • Gautama Buddha was the founder of Buddhism.
  • He belonged to the Kshatriya clan of Sakya.
  • His childhood name was Siddharth.
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4. Spread, Impact, and Decline

  • Jainism spread through royal patronage, saints, local language, and appeal of austerity.
  • Mahavira used Prakrit instead of Sanskrit so common people could understand him.
  • Jainism influenced political, social, religious, literary, and artistic life.

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Key Concepts

Angas are the twelve Jain textsTripitika means Three BasketsJatakas are tales about the previousMahavira was the twentyBuddha was born as Siddharth

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Jainism and Buddhism for ICSE Class 9 History & Civics?
Key topics in Jainism and Buddhism include Background: Why Jainism and Buddhism Rose, Jainism: Mahavira, Teachings, and Sects, Buddhism: Buddha, Teachings, and Organisation, Spread, Impact, and Decline. Study these first, then practise questions on each for Class 9 exams.
How should I revise Jainism and Buddhism for Class 9 exams?
Learn the core ideas first, then work through the 58 practice questions on Jainism and Buddhism. Revise definitions regularly and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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