CBSE Class 12 History – Thinkers, Beliefs, and Buildings

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12th

12th - History

Thinkers, Beliefs, and Buildings

Chapter Overview

This chapter traces the emergence of new philosophical ideas—Buddhism and Jainism—as thinkers challenged Vedic rituals. It also examines how these beliefs found expression in sacred spaces like stupas, chaityas, and temples built during c.600 BCE–600 CE. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Important Keywords

  • Stupa: Dome-shaped shrine housing relics of the Buddha.
  • Chaitya: Sacred prayer hall built in association with natural shrines.
  • Sangha: Monastic community of Buddhist monks and nuns.
  • Ahimsa: Non-violence principle central to Jainism.
  • Karma: Belief in action and its consequences manifesting over lives.
  • Asceticism: Practice of severe self-discipline and renunciation.
  • Relic Worship: Veneration of sacred remains as central to pilgrimage and architecture.

Detailed Notes

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