Indian Literature Introduction And "Night" Test- Version 1
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There are 3 deities that stand out in the ancient Hindu pantheon .The Protector is:ShivaBrahmaVishnu
Indian Literature Introduction and 'Night' Test- Version 1 explores themes and symbolism in Indian poetry, focusing on the depiction of the goddess Night. Participants analyze verses to understand the poetic devices used and the cultural significance of night in Indian literature.
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- 2.
There are 3 deities that stand out in the ancient Hindu pantheon .The Destroyer/Preserver is:ShivaBrahmaVishnu
Explanation
Shiva is the correct answer because he is known as the Destroyer/Preserver in the ancient Hindu pantheon. Shiva is one of the three main deities in Hinduism, along with Brahma and Vishnu. He is often depicted as a powerful and fearsome deity, responsible for destruction and transformation. However, Shiva is also seen as a preserver, as he is believed to destroy in order to create and maintain balance in the universe. He is highly revered and worshipped by millions of Hindus around the world.Rate this question:
- 3.
"Perfect speech" refers to what language?HebrewEnglishSanskrit
Explanation
"Perfect speech" refers to the language Sanskrit. Sanskrit is considered to be the language of the gods in Hinduism and is believed to be the most perfect and refined language. It is known for its complex grammar, precise pronunciation, and rich vocabulary. Sanskrit has a long history and is still studied and used in religious rituals, philosophical texts, and traditional practices in India.Rate this question:
- 4.
There are 3 deities that stand out in the ancient Hindu pantheon .The Creator is:ShivaBrahmaVishnu
Explanation
The correct answer is Brahma because Brahma is one of the three deities that stand out in the ancient Hindu pantheon. The question is asking for the name of the Creator among these three deities, and Brahma is the correct answer. Shiva and Vishnu are also important deities in Hinduism, but they have different roles and responsibilities. Brahma is specifically known as the Creator in Hindu mythology.Rate this question:
- 5.
The Rig-Veda is a collection of more than 1,000 ______________.
Explanation
The Rig-Veda is a collection of more than 1,000 hymns. These hymns are ancient sacred texts composed in Sanskrit and are considered the oldest and most important texts of the Hindu religion. They are believed to have been composed between 1500 and 1200 BCE and are dedicated to various deities. The hymns contain prayers, praises, and rituals, and provide insights into the religious beliefs, customs, and practices of the ancient Vedic civilization. The Rig-Veda is highly revered and continues to be studied and recited in Hindu rituals and ceremonies.Rate this question:
- 6.
Untouchables' jobs were
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Scholars, priests, and teachers
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Rulers and warriors
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Merchants, farmers, and artisans
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Menial work
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Disposing of dead animals and human waste
Correct Answer
A. Disposing of dead animals and human wasteExplanation
The correct answer is "disposing of dead animals and human waste". This answer is supported by the fact that the Untouchables were considered to be at the lowest level of the social hierarchy in traditional Indian society. They were often assigned tasks that were considered impure or polluting, such as handling dead animals and human waste. This was seen as a form of manual labor that was considered undesirable and unclean by higher castes.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Brahmans' jobs were
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Scholars, priests, and teachers
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Rulers and warriors
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Merchants, farmers, and artisans
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Menial work
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Disposing of dead animals and human waste
Correct Answer
A. Scholars, priests, and teachersExplanation
The correct answer is scholars, priests, and teachers. Brahmins were considered the highest caste in the Indian social hierarchy and were responsible for performing religious rituals, studying and teaching the Vedas (sacred texts), and providing guidance and spiritual services to the community. They held positions of intellectual and spiritual authority and were highly respected for their knowledge and wisdom.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The __________________________ were the founders of Hinduism.
Correct Answer
AryansExplanation
The Aryans were the founders of Hinduism. Hinduism originated from the religious beliefs and practices of the ancient Aryan people who migrated to the Indian subcontinent around 1500 BCE. They brought with them their own religious texts, known as the Vedas, which form the basis of Hinduism. The Aryans played a significant role in shaping the religious and cultural traditions that eventually developed into the complex and diverse religion known as Hinduism.Rate this question:
- 9.
According to verse 4, how do earth's creatures respond when night comes?
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They cringe in fear.
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They go home to rest.
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They watch during the night.
Correct Answer
A. They go home to rest.Explanation
According to verse 4, earth's creatures respond to night by going home to rest.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Verse 2 says that that goddess Night "stems the tide of darkness with her light." What light does the goddess of night most likely have?
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Candlelight
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Firelight
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Starlight
Correct Answer
A. StarlightExplanation
The goddess of night most likely has starlight because verse 2 states that she "stems the tide of darkness with her light." Stars are a common source of light in the night sky, so it is reasonable to assume that the goddess of night would have starlight as her source of illumination.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Verse 7, which describes darkness as "palpable, black, and painted," describes darkness as something the singer can
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Smell
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Taste
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Touch
Correct Answer
A. TouchExplanation
The correct answer is "touch". The verse describes darkness as "palpable, black, and painted," suggesting that it is something tangible that the singer can physically feel or touch.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Verse 7 appeals to the goddess of dawn and reminds listeners that
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Day will always follow night
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Dawn calls wolves out of the forest
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Even "ever-searching hawks" must rest
Correct Answer
A. Day will always follow nightExplanation
The correct answer is "day will always follow night." This is because the verse appeals to the goddess of dawn, implying that she brings forth the light of day after the darkness of night. This suggests a cyclical pattern where night is always followed by day, reinforcing the idea that day will always follow night.Rate this question:
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- 13.
A hymn is defined as
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A long narrative poem that relates the great deeds of a larger-than-life hero who embodies the values of a particular society.
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A short allegorical story that teaches a moral or religious lesson about life.
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A lyric poem, or song, addressed to a divine being.
Correct Answer
A. A lyric poem, or song, addressed to a divine being.Explanation
The correct answer is a lyric poem, or song, addressed to a divine being. This is because a hymn is typically a religious or spiritual song that is written to praise or worship a divine being, such as God. Hymns often express devotion, gratitude, or reverence towards the divine and are commonly used in religious ceremonies or gatherings. They are characterized by their poetic and musical qualities, with a focus on expressing religious sentiments and connecting with the divine.Rate this question:
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- 14.
According to verse 3, the goddess Night's sister is the
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Darkness
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Twilight
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Earth
Correct Answer
A. TwilightExplanation
According to verse 3, the goddess Night's sister is twilight.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Sudras' jobs were
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Scholars, priests, and teachers
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Rulers and warriors
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Merchants, farmers, and artisans
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Menial work
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Disposing of dead animals and human waste
Correct Answer
A. Menial workExplanation
The correct answer is menial work. This refers to tasks that are considered lowly or unskilled, often involving physical labor or cleaning. Sudras were traditionally assigned to perform these types of tasks in the caste system of ancient India. This answer is supported by the fact that the other options - scholars, priests, and teachers; rulers and warriors; merchants, farmers, and artisans; and disposing of dead animals and human waste - do not accurately represent the typical roles and responsibilities of Sudras.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Vaisyas' jobs were
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Scholars, priests, and teachers
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Rulers and warriors
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Merchants, farmers, and artisans
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Menial work
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Disposing of dead animals and human waste
Correct Answer
A. Merchants, farmers, and artisansExplanation
The correct answer is merchants, farmers, and artisans. Vaisyas were a social class in ancient Indian society and their main occupations were related to trade, agriculture, and craftsmanship. Merchants were involved in buying and selling goods, farmers were engaged in agricultural activities, and artisans were skilled craftsmen who produced various goods. These occupations were considered respectable and important for the economic well-being of the society.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Kshatriyas' jobs were
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Scholars, priests, and teachers
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Rulers and warriors
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Merchants, farmers, and artisans
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Menial work
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Disposing of dead animals and human waste
Correct Answer
A. Rulers and warriorsExplanation
Kshatriyas were members of the second highest varna (social class) in ancient Indian society. They were traditionally assigned the roles of rulers and warriors, responsible for protecting the kingdom and maintaining law and order. They were expected to lead armies, defend the kingdom from external threats, and ensure the well-being of their subjects. This role required them to possess qualities such as bravery, leadership, and strategic thinking. Additionally, Kshatriyas were also involved in governance and decision-making processes, playing a crucial role in the administration of the kingdom.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Reincarnation means
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One's social class in Hindu religion
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A Buddhist religious practice that comes from the word "union"
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Transmigration of souls
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"action"
Correct Answer
A. Transmigration of soulsExplanation
Reincarnation refers to the belief in the transmigration of souls, where after death, the soul is reborn into a new body. This concept is commonly associated with Hinduism and Buddhism, where individuals believe in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The term "transmigration of souls" accurately captures the essence of this belief, as it signifies the movement or migration of the soul from one body to another.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Verse 6 reads, "O night full of waves, be easy for us to cross." Here, the hymn compares night to a
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Ship
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Bridge
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Sea
Correct Answer
A. SeaExplanation
The correct answer is sea. The hymn compares the night to a sea, suggesting that the night is full of waves and can be difficult to navigate or cross. This comparison highlights the challenges or obstacles that may be encountered during the night, just as one would face while navigating through rough waters in a sea.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Bushido means
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A code of honor and conduct that called for self-sacrifice and absolute loyalty to a feudal lord od daimyo
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Assembly of the gods
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"to hold"
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One's color or rank in the Hindu religion
Correct Answer
A. A code of honor and conduct that called for self-sacrifice and absolute loyalty to a feudal lord od daimyoExplanation
Bushido refers to a code of honor and conduct that demanded self-sacrifice and unwavering loyalty towards a feudal lord or daimyo. It was a set of principles followed by the samurai warriors in feudal Japan, emphasizing virtues such as loyalty, integrity, and honor. This code governed their behavior, emphasizing the importance of self-discipline, courage, and respect. The samurai were expected to prioritize their lord's interests above their own, even if it meant sacrificing their lives. Bushido played a crucial role in shaping the samurai's identity and their role in society.Rate this question:
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- 21.
What danger does nighttime threaten to bring?
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Blindness
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Theft
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Battle
Correct Answer
A. TheftExplanation
Nighttime can potentially bring an increased risk of theft as it provides cover and anonymity for criminals to carry out their activities. The darkness and reduced visibility make it easier for thieves to go unnoticed and steal valuable items without being detected.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Yoga means
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One's social class in Hindu religion
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A Buddhist religious practice that comes from the word "union"
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Transmigration of souls
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"action"
Correct Answer
A. A Buddhist religious practice that comes from the word "union"Explanation
The correct answer is "a Buddhist religious practice that comes from the word 'union'". Yoga is a practice that originated in ancient India and is associated with Hinduism and Buddhism. The word "yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit word "yuj" which means "to unite" or "to join". In Buddhism, yoga is a means to achieve spiritual enlightenment and union with the divine. It involves physical postures, breathing exercises, meditation, and ethical principles.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Pantheon means
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A code of honor and conduct that called for self-sacrifice and absolute loyalty to a feudal lord od daimyo
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Assembly of the gods
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"to hold"
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One's color or rank in the Hindu religion
Correct Answer
A. Assembly of the godsExplanation
The word "Pantheon" refers to an assembly of the gods. In this context, it can be understood as a gathering or group of deities. It does not refer to a code of honor and conduct, a Hindu religious concept, or anything related to color or rank.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Caste means
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One's social class in Hindu religion
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A Buddhist religious practice that comes from the word "union"
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Transmigration of souls
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"action"
Correct Answer
A. One's social class in Hindu religionExplanation
The term "caste" refers to one's social class in the Hindu religion. In Hinduism, society is divided into different social classes or castes, which are determined by birth. Each caste has its own set of rights, privileges, and duties. The caste system is deeply rooted in Hindu society and has a significant impact on social interactions, marriage, and occupation. It is a hierarchical system that places individuals into specific social groups based on their birth, and it is considered a fundamental aspect of Hindu religious and cultural identity.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The hymn "Night" is dedicated to the goddess of
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Dawn
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Twilight
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Night
Correct Answer
A. NightExplanation
The correct answer is night because the hymn is specifically dedicated to the goddess of night. This suggests that the hymn is meant to honor and celebrate the qualities and significance of the nighttime, perhaps acknowledging its beauty, mystery, or symbolic associations. The dedication to the goddess of night implies a reverence and appreciation for the darkness and its role in the natural cycle of day and night.Rate this question:
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- 26.
What hope for the hymn does the singer of "Night" express in the last verse?
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That it will bring listeners comfort
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That the goddess will approve of it
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That the singer will be rewarded for singing it
Correct Answer
A. That the goddess will approve of itExplanation
In the last verse of the hymn "Night," the singer expresses hope that the goddess will approve of it. This suggests that the singer desires validation and acceptance from the goddess for their hymn. It implies that the singer believes the hymn is worthy of the goddess's approval and hopes that it will be seen as such.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Verse 7 compares darkness to a debt in the line "O Dawn, banish it like a debt." How are darkness and debt alike?
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Both make it hard to see.
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Both have to be paid back.
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Both make life more difficult.
Correct Answer
A. Both make life more difficult.Explanation
Darkness and debt are alike because they both make life more difficult. Darkness obstructs vision, making it harder to navigate and perceive the world around us. Similarly, debt creates financial burdens and can limit opportunities, making it challenging to live a comfortable and fulfilling life. Both darkness and debt have a negative impact on our overall well-being and make our daily experiences more challenging and burdensome.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Kharma means
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One's social class in Hindu religion
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A Buddhist religious practice that comes from the word "union"
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Transmigration of souls
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"action"
Correct Answer
A. "action"Explanation
Kharma, spelled as "karma" in the question, refers to the concept in Hinduism and Buddhism that every action has consequences. It is the belief that one's actions in this life will determine their fate in future lives. This concept emphasizes personal responsibility and the idea that one's actions shape their destiny. Therefore, "action" is the correct answer as it accurately represents the meaning of karma in both Hinduism and Buddhism.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Hymns such as "Night" are created to be
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Copied down by monks
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Sung in worship
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Read in silence
Correct Answer
A. Sung in worshipExplanation
Hymns such as "Night" are created to be sung in worship because they are religious songs that are meant to be performed during religious ceremonies or gatherings. Singing hymns is a common practice in many religious traditions as a way to express devotion, praise, and connect with the divine. These hymns often have religious themes and are composed in a way that is suitable for congregational singing or choral performances. Therefore, the purpose of creating hymns like "Night" is to have them sung during worship services as a form of spiritual expression.Rate this question:
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- 30.
What is the primary purpose of "Night"?
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To ask for safety
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To criticize darkness
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To persuade people to go home and rest
Correct Answer
A. To ask for safetyExplanation
The primary purpose of "Night" is to ask for safety. This suggests that the main intention of the text is to request or seek protection and security during the nighttime. It implies that the author is concerned about potential dangers or risks that may arise during the night and is urging individuals to take precautions and ensure their well-being.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Varna means
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A code of honor and conduct that called for self-sacrifice and absolute loyalty to a feudal lord od daimyo
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Assembly of the gods
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"to hold"
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One's color or rank in the Hindu religion
Correct Answer
A. One's color or rank in the Hindu religionExplanation
The term "Varna" refers to one's color or rank in the Hindu religion. In Hinduism, Varna is a system of social classification that divides society into four main groups based on occupation and social status. These groups are Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and servants). Each Varna is associated with a particular color and has specific duties and responsibilities. This system is believed to have originated from the Hindu scriptures and is considered an important aspect of Hindu society and culture.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Verse 3 says, "Darkness, too, will give way." When will this happen?
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When twilight begins
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When morning ends
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When the stars come out
Correct Answer
A. When the stars come outExplanation
The verse states that "Darkness, too, will give way." This implies that darkness will eventually be replaced by light. The answer "When the stars come out" suggests that darkness will give way to light when night falls and the stars become visible in the sky.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which of the following lines from the hymn personifies night?
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"She has put on all her glories."
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"Darkness...has come upon me."
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"we turned homeward to rest"
Correct Answer
A. "She has put on all her glories."Explanation
The line "She has put on all her glories" personifies night by attributing human characteristics to it. The use of the pronoun "she" and the verb "put on" suggest that night is being portrayed as a woman who is adorning herself with her beauties. This personification helps to create a vivid and imaginative image of night as a living entity with its own qualities and actions.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Dharma means
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A code of honor and conduct that called for self-sacrifice and absolute loyalty to a feudal lord od daimyo
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Assembly of the gods
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"to hold"
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One's color or rank in the Hindu religion
Correct Answer
A. "to hold"Explanation
Dharma is a Sanskrit word that means "to hold" or "to sustain". It refers to the moral and ethical duties and responsibilities that individuals should uphold in order to maintain harmony and order in society. It is a concept that is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy and is considered to be a guiding principle for individuals to lead a righteous and virtuous life. The word "to hold" accurately captures the essence of Dharma as it implies the idea of upholding and preserving one's duty and righteousness.Rate this question:
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Mar 14, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Feb 03, 2015Quiz Created by
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