Question

Which of the following concepts in the Bhakti movement of Hinduism saw two ways of imaging the nature of divine (Brahman)?
A. Nirguna and Saguna
B. Shaivism
C. Sikhism
D. Jainism

Answer 1

Hint:
> It was the concept of the Ultimate Reality as formless, without attributes or quality.
> It is referred to as the supreme self.
> The Bhakti Movement emerged during the seventh to eighth century CE.

Complete answer:
Option A) Nirguna and Saguna – is a correct answer because the Bhakti movement of Hinduism saw two ways of imaging the nature of the divine (Brahman) – Nirguna and Saguna. Nirguna Brahman was the concept of the Ultimate Reality as formless, without attributes or quality.

Option B) Shaivism – is an incorrect answer because Shaivism is one of the major traditions within Hinduism that reveres Shiva as the Supreme Being. It is one of the largest groups to believe that Shiva, revered as a world’s creator and destroyer, is the ultimte god over all. Thus, it is incorrect here.

Option C) Sikhism – is an incorrect answer because Sikhism is classified as an Indian religion along with Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism. The basis of Sikhism lies in the teachings of Guru Nanak and the successors. Thus, it is incorrect here.

Option D) Jainism – is an incorrect answer because Jains believe that Jainism is an eternal dharma with the tirthankaras guiding every cycle of the Jain cosmology. Non-violence, multi-sidedness, detachment and abstinence from sensual pleasures are the principal religious premises of the Jain dharma. Thus, it is incorrect here.

Note:
> In medieval Hinduism, The Bhakti movement refers to the theistic devotional pattern that originated.
> Later on the movement served as the de facto trigger for Sikhism’s growth.
> It emerged in southern India in the eighth-century and spread northwards.