NCERT Class 6 History Chapter 6 – New Questions and Ideas (Notes)

Chapter 6 – New Questions and Ideas

These NCERT Class 6 History Chapter 6 notes explain the rise of new religious and philosophical ideas in India around 2500 years ago. The chapter focuses on the Upanishads, Jainism, Buddhism, and the teachings of Mahavira and Buddha, making it important for school exams and BPSC foundation preparation.

1. Background of the chapter

Around 2500 years ago, people began asking new questions about life.
These questions were related to suffering, death, truth, and the meaning of life.
Many people were dissatisfied with old rituals and practices.
This period saw the rise of new religious and philosophical ideas.
Just like today people think about stress and happiness, people did the same in ancient times.

2. The Upanishadic thinkers

Upanishadic thinkers composed the Upanishads.
They believed that deep thinking was needed to understand life.
They taught that Atman and Brahman are one.
According to them, true knowledge comes from self-realisation.
They did not give importance to rituals.

3. Jainism

Mahavira was the founder of Jainism.
He lived around 2500 years ago.
He taught ahimsa or non-violence as the most important principle.
Other teachings included truth, non-stealing, non-attachment, and celibacy.
Men and women could join the Jain community.

4. Buddhism

Buddha was born as Siddhartha Gautama.
He belonged to a royal family but left home in search of truth.
He attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya.
He gave his first sermon at Sarnath.
He attained Mahaparinirvana at Kushinagar.

5. Teachings of the Buddha

Buddha taught that life is full of suffering.
He said desire is the main cause of suffering.
Suffering can end by following the Middle Path.
He advised people to avoid extremes in life.
His teachings stressed kindness and compassion.

6. Sangha (Buddhist monastic order)

The Sangha was the community of Buddhist monks and nuns.
Members of the Sangha gave up family life.
They lived on alms given by people.
Women were allowed to join the Sangha.
The Sangha played an important role in spreading Buddhism.

7. Spread of new ideas

Teachers travelled from place to place to spread ideas.
Teachings were given in Prakrit, the language of common people.
People from different sections of society followed these ideas.
The simple teachings attracted many followers.
These ideas spread widely across regions.

8. Role of slaves and women

Slaves found it difficult to join the Sangha because of their duties.
Many slaves could not leave their work.
Women were allowed to join religious orders.
However, women had to follow certain restrictions.
This shows both progress and limitations in society.

9. Important dates (NCERT focus)

Upanishadic thinkers, Mahavira, and Buddha lived around 2500 years ago.
Writing down of Jaina texts began around 1500 years ago.
These dates help understand religious developments.
They show changes in thinking over time.
Dates are important for historical study.

10. Important keywords

Upanishads are ancient philosophical texts.
Atman refers to the soul.
Brahman means the supreme power.
Mahavira was the founder of Jainism.
Buddha founded Buddhism.

11. Why this chapter is important

This chapter explains the rise of new religions in India.
It shows a shift from rituals to ethical living.
It forms the foundation of Indian philosophy.
It helps in understanding moral values.
It is important for understanding Jainism and Buddhism.

This chapter marks a shift from ritual-based practices to ethical thinking and self-realisation. Understanding these ideas helps students grasp the roots of Indian philosophy and moral values.

Continue reading Class 6 History Chapter 7 – Ashoka, the Emperor Who Gave Up War to learn about the Mauryan Empire and Ashoka’s policy of dhamma.

FAQs

Q1. What is the main theme of Class 6 History Chapter 6?
It explains the rise of new religious and philosophical ideas, including Jainism and Buddhism.

Q2. Why is Chapter 6 important for exams?
It introduces key thinkers and concepts that are fundamental to Indian philosophy and ethics.