Candidates preparing for the UPSC exam should learn about the Vedic Age. Reviewing this topic regularly helps improve your knowledge. The set of “Vedic Age MCQ” questions below can help you understand the topic better and more easily.
1. What was the main occupation of Rig Vedic people?
A. Agriculture
B. Cattle-rearing
C. Trade
D. Hunting
Answer: B. Cattle-rearing
Explanation: The Rig Vedic people primarily relied on cattle-rearing for their livelihood. Cows were considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity during this period, and cattle-rearing was central to their economy. Agriculture, though present, gained prominence later.
2. The term “Arya” used in the Vedic period referred to:
A. A race
B. A group of people who spoke Sanskrit
C. Nomadic tribes
D. Rulers
Answer: B. A group of people who spoke Sanskrit
Explanation: The term “Arya” in the Vedic context referred to a cultural and linguistic identity associated with people who spoke Sanskrit and followed the Vedic traditions. It did not denote a racial or tribal classification.
3. The Rigvedic society was:
A. Matriarchal
B. Patriarchal
C. Egalitarian
D. Socialist
Answer: B. Patriarchal
Explanation: Rigvedic society was patriarchal, meaning that men held primary authority in family and societal matters. Lineage and inheritance were traced through the male line, and leadership roles were predominantly occupied by men.
4. Which Veda contains the famous “Gayatri Mantra”?
A. Atharva Veda
B. Sama Veda
C. Yajur Veda
D. Rig Veda
Answer: D. Rig Veda
Explanation: The “Gayatri Mantra,” a sacred hymn dedicated to the Sun deity, appears in the Rig Veda (Mandala 3, Hymn 62). It is one of the most revered mantras in Hinduism and is associated with meditation and spirituality.
5. The division of society into four varnas (classes) is mentioned in:
A. Atharva Veda
B. Purusha Sukta of Rig Veda
C. Yajur Veda
D. Sama Veda
Answer: B. Purusha Sukta of Rig Veda
Explanation: The concept of the four varnas (Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra) is first mentioned in the Purusha Sukta of the Rig Veda. It describes the division of society based on roles and duties in the cosmic order.
6. What was the tax collected by kings during the Vedic Age called?
A. Vidatha
B. Bali
C. Kara
D. Varman
Answer: B. Bali
Explanation: “Bali” was a voluntary offering or tax given to the king by the people in the Vedic period. It was not enforced but was considered a duty to support the ruler and the state.
7. The origin of Ayurveda is associated with which Veda?
A. Rig Veda
B. Atharva Veda
C. Sama Veda
D. Yajur Veda
Answer: B. Atharva Veda
Explanation: Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine, finds its origins in the Atharva Veda. It contains hymns and references to healing practices, herbs, and medical knowledge.
8. The crop not known to the Vedic people was:
A. Barley
B. Rice
C. Wheat
D. Tobacco
Answer: D. Tobacco
Explanation: Tobacco was not known to the Vedic people as it was introduced to India much later, during the colonial period. Barley, rice, and wheat were common crops during the Vedic age.
9. The Upanishads primarily deal with:
A. Rituals and ceremonies
B. Spiritual philosophy and meditation
C. Laws and administration
D. Warfare strategies
Answer: B. Spiritual philosophy and meditation
Explanation: The Upanishads are philosophical texts that focus on spirituality, the nature of the self, and the ultimate reality (Brahman). They represent the concluding portion of the Vedic literature, emphasizing knowledge over rituals.
10. The staple food of the Vedic Aryans was:
A. Barley and rice
B. Milk and its products
C. Vegetables and fruits
D. Wheat and pulses
Answer: B. Milk and its products
Explanation: Milk, along with its derivatives like butter and ghee, formed the staple diet of the Vedic Aryans. Cattle-rearing played a central role in their economy, and dairy products were highly valued.
Vedic Age MCQ UPSC
11. The primary deity of Rigvedic people was:
A. Agni
B. Indra
C. Varuna
D. Soma
Answer: B. Indra
Explanation: Indra was the most important deity in the Rig Vedic pantheon. He was considered the king of gods, associated with thunder, rain, and warfare. Indra was often invoked for protection and victory in battles.
12. Which Veda is also known as the “Book of Chants”?
A. Sama Veda
B. Rig Veda
C. Yajur Veda
D. Atharva Veda
Answer: A. Sama Veda
Explanation: The Sama Veda is referred to as the “Book of Chants” because it consists primarily of hymns and melodies meant for ritualistic chanting. It is closely associated with the performance of sacrifices.
13. The term “Dasas” and “Dasyus” in the Vedic texts refers to:
A. Aryan tribes
B. Enemies of Aryans
C. Vedic priests
D. Local rulers
Answer: B. Enemies of Aryans
Explanation: “Dasas” and “Dasyus” were terms used in the Rig Veda to describe non-Aryan people who were considered enemies or opponents of the Aryans. They were often portrayed as having conflicting beliefs and practices.
14. Which of the following rivers is not mentioned in Rig Veda?
A. Saraswati
B. Yamuna
C. Narmada
D. Sindhu
Answer: C. Narmada
Explanation: The Narmada River is not mentioned in the Rig Veda, which primarily refers to rivers like Saraswati, Yamuna, and Sindhu (Indus) in the region of the early Aryan settlements.
15. The Varna system of Vedic society was initially based on:
A. Birth
B. Occupation
C. Wealth
D. Education
Answer: B. Occupation
Explanation: In the early Vedic period, the Varna system was based on occupation and the duties performed by individuals. Over time, it evolved into a hereditary system based on birth.
16. What was the Sabha in Vedic times?
A. A religious assembly
B. A tribal assembly for decision-making
C. A military organization
D. A trade union
Answer: B. A tribal assembly for decision-making
Explanation: The Sabha was an important tribal assembly in Vedic times where decisions regarding administration, disputes, and other matters of tribal welfare were discussed and made.
17. The earliest Aryan settlements were established in:
A. Bengal
B. Sapta Sindhu region
C. Gujarat
D. Rajasthan
Answer: B. Sapta Sindhu region
Explanation: The Sapta Sindhu region, which refers to the land of seven rivers (including the Indus and its tributaries), was the cradle of the earliest Aryan settlements. It was a fertile area that supported agriculture and cattle-rearing.
18. The Rigveda consists of how many hymns?
A. 1028
B. 1052
C. 1100
D. 1017
Answer: A. 1028
Explanation: The Rig Veda is the oldest of the four Vedas and contains 1028 hymns divided into ten books (mandalas). These hymns are dedicated to various deities and reflect the beliefs of the early Vedic people.
19. Which one of the following Vedas is considered the oldest?
A. Sama Veda
B. Yajur Veda
C. Atharva Veda
D. Rig Veda
Answer: D. Rig Veda
Explanation: The Rig Veda is the oldest and most significant of the four Vedas. It provides insight into the social, religious, and economic life of the early Vedic civilization.
20. The “Ashvamedha” ritual was performed to:
A. Please the gods
B. Prove the king’s supremacy
C. Promote trade
D. Ensure good harvest
Answer: B. Prove the king’s supremacy
Explanation: The Ashvamedha (horse sacrifice) was a royal ritual performed to assert the king’s dominance over neighboring territories. A horse was released, and any land it roamed freely was claimed as part of the king’s domain.
Vedic Age MCQ with Answers
21. The term “Soma” in the Rig Veda refers to:
A. A plant-based drink
B. A form of meditation
C. A deity
D. A ritual
Answer: A. A plant-based drink
Explanation: Soma was a sacred drink prepared from an unidentified plant and used in rituals. It was also personified as a deity in the Rig Veda, representing immortality and divine inspiration.
22. Which language was spoken by the Aryans?
A. Pali
B. Sanskrit
C. Prakrit
D. Tamil
Answer: B. Sanskrit
Explanation: The Aryans spoke Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-European language. It was the medium for composing the Vedic texts and was later refined for use in classical literature and philosophy.
23. The Vedic age is roughly dated between:
A. 2000–500 BCE
B. 1500–600 BCE
C. 1000–400 BCE
D. 1800–700 BCE
Answer: B. 1500–600 BCE
Explanation: The Vedic age, marked by the composition of the Vedic texts and the early Aryan settlements, is generally dated between 1500 BCE and 600 BCE, encompassing the Early and Later Vedic periods.
24. The Rigvedic Aryans fought most of their wars for:
A. Territory
B. Cattle
C. Women
D. Gold
Answer: B. Cattle
Explanation: Cattle were the primary source of wealth and sustenance in Rigvedic society. Most wars during this period were fought over the possession of cattle, which symbolized prosperity.
25. The concept of “Rita” in the Vedic period represents:
A. Sacred rituals
B. Cosmic order and harmony
C. Wealth and prosperity
D. Warfare
Answer: B. Cosmic order and harmony
Explanation: “Rita” refers to the principle of cosmic order, harmony, and truth upheld by the gods. It was central to Vedic philosophy, emphasizing the importance of maintaining balance in the universe through righteous actions.
26. The only Veda to have been rendered musically is
A. The Rig Veda
B. The Sama Veda
C. The Yajur Veda
D. The Atharva Veda
Answer: B. The Sama Veda
Explanation
The Sama Veda is considered the Veda of melodies and chants. It consists mainly of hymns that are meant to be sung, making it the only Veda rendered musically.
27. From where the famous ‘Gayatri Mantra’ has been taken?
A. Yajur Veda
B. Atharva Veda
C. Rig Veda
D. Sama Veda
Answer: C. Rig Veda
Explanation
The Gayatri Mantra, one of the most revered mantras in Hinduism, is found in the Rig Veda. It is a prayer for wisdom and enlightenment.
28. ‘Ayurveda’ has its origin in
A. Rig Veda
B. Sama Veda
C. Yajur Veda
D. Atharva Veda
Answer: D. Atharva Veda
Explanation
Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine, finds its roots in the Atharva Veda. It contains knowledge about health, diseases, and healing practices.
29. In the early Vedic-period, Varna system was based on
A. Education
B. Birth
C. Occupation
D. Talent
Answer: C. Occupation
Explanation
During the early Vedic period, the Varna system was based on the work or occupation of individuals, not by birth or caste as it later became.
30. The ritualistic precepts pertaining to the hymns of the Vedas are known as the
A. Samhita
B. Aranyakas
C. Brahmanas
D. Upanishads
Answer: C. Brahmanas
Explanation
The Brahmanas are prose texts that explain the rituals, ceremonies, and sacrifices associated with the hymns in the Vedas.
Vedic Age MCQ Online Test
31. The famous Vedic saying “war begins in the minds of men” is contained in the
A. Mundakopanishad
B. Mahabharata
C. Rig Veda
D. Atharva Veda
Answer: C. Rig Veda
Explanation
This philosophical saying emphasizes the psychological roots of conflict and is derived from the Rig Veda.
32. The crop which was not known to Vedic people is
A. Barley
B. Wheat
C. Rice
D. Tobacco
Answer: D. Tobacco
Explanation
Tobacco was introduced much later in India, after the Vedic period, through foreign trade. The Vedic people cultivated barley, wheat, and rice.
33. The Veda which deals with the rituals is known as
A. Rig Veda
B. Yajur Veda
C. Sama Veda
D. Atharva Veda
Answer: B. Yajur Veda
Explanation
The Yajur Veda is primarily a collection of sacrificial formulas and instructions for performing rituals and sacrifices.
34. The name of the Indian Astronomer (who knew five astronomical systems), who lived in the 6th century was
A. Varahamihira
B. Bhandarkar
C. Pujyapada
D. Prasastapada
Answer: A. Varahamihira
Explanation
Varahamihira was a renowned Indian astronomer and mathematician of the 6th century. He wrote extensively on astronomy and astrology.
35. Who among the following was the pioneer of Yoga?
A. Patanjali
B. Banabhatta
C. Atreya
D. Vrudukanta
Answer: A. Patanjali
Explanation
Patanjali is considered the pioneer of Yoga. He compiled the Yoga Sutras, which form the foundation of classical Yoga philosophy.
36. Which of the following craftsmanship was not practised by the Aryans?
A. Pottery
B. Jewellery
C. Carpentry
D. Blacksmith
Answer: D. Blacksmith
Explanation
The Aryans did not practice blacksmithing as iron tools were not known during the early Vedic period. They excelled in pottery, jewellery, and carpentry.
37. Two popular Assemblies of the Vedic period were
A. Sabha and Mahasabha
B. Mahasabha and Ganasabha
C. Sabha and Samiti
D. Ur and Kula
Answer: C. Sabha and Samiti
Explanation
The Sabha and Samiti were two significant assemblies in the Vedic period. Sabha was the council of elders, while Samiti was a general assembly.
38. The Rigvedic Aryans were governed by a
A. Tribal republic
B. Form of democracy
C. Monarchical government
D. Rule by elders
Answer: C. Monarchical government
Explanation
The Rigvedic Aryans were ruled by kings (Rajas) who governed with the assistance of assemblies like the Sabha and Samiti.
39. Who was the eldest brother among the Pandavas?
A. Yudhishthira
B. Bhima
C. Sahadeva
D. Nakula
Answer: A. Yudhishthira
Explanation
Yudhishthira, known for his wisdom and righteousness, was the eldest among the five Pandava brothers in the Mahabharata.
40. The philosophical essence, “The world is but God manifest and God is my own soul” may be traced to the
A. Vedas
B. Upanishads
C. Puranas
D. Manusmriti
Answer: B. Upanishads
Explanation
This profound philosophy emphasizing the unity of the soul and the universe is a core teaching of the Upanishads.
Vedic Age MCQ in English
41. Which one of the following Vedas contains sacrificial formula?
A. Sama Veda
B. Rig Veda
C. Yajur Veda
D. Atharva Veda
Answer: C. Yajur Veda
Explanation
The Yajur Veda includes formulas and instructions specifically for sacrifices and rituals.
42. Name the temple in Cambodia where scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata are depicted
A. Borobudur
B. Kailashnath
C. Angkor Wat
D. Brihadeshwara
Answer: C. Angkor Wat
Explanation
Angkor Wat, a famous temple in Cambodia, has intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.
43. The most important craftsman in the Vedic period was the
A. Blacksmith
B. Goldsmith
C. Carpenter
D. Barber
Answer: C. Carpenter
Explanation
The carpenter was highly valued during the Vedic period due to the extensive use of wooden tools, chariots, and structures.
44. Which of the following contains the famous Gayatri Mantra?
A. Rig Veda
B. Sama Veda
C. Kathopanishad
D. Aitareya Brahmana
Answer: A. Rig Veda
Explanation
The Gayatri Mantra is found in the Rig Veda and is addressed to Savitr, the Sun deity.
45. The Sage who is said to have Aryanised South India was
A. Yagnavalkya
B. Vashistha
C. Agastya
D. Vishwamitra
Answer: C. Agastya
Explanation
Sage Agastya is credited with spreading Aryan culture and language to South India. He is a revered figure in both northern and southern traditions.
