How The Land Becomes Sacred Class 7 Social Science Important Questions And Answers Ncert Cbse

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HOW THE LAND BECOMES SACRED : Class 7 : Social Science

SUMMARY –

Meaning of Sacred Land

In ancient and medieval India, many places became sacred because they were associated with religion, myths, saints, or natural features.

Rivers, mountains, forests, and temples were often considered holy.

Rivers as Sacred

Rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, Narmada, and Godavari became sacred because people believed bathing in them washed away sins.

Pilgrimage centres grew on their banks (e.g., Varanasi, Prayagraj).

Mountains and Forests

Many mountains (Himalayas, Kailash) were considered the abodes of gods.

Forests were also worshipped and linked with saints and hermits.

Temples and Cities

Construction of grand temples (like Konark, Khajuraho, Somnath, Puri Jagannath) turned those places into religious centres.

Cities like Kashi (Varanasi), Kanchipuram, and Mathura became major pilgrim destinations.

Saints and Sufis

Sacredness was also linked to saints and religious teachers.

Dargahs of Sufi saints and maths of Hindu saints became pilgrimage spots.

Pilgrimage (Tirtha Yatra)

Pilgrimage was an important part of people’s lives.

Large gatherings (like Kumbh Mela) became occasions of devotion and cultural exchange.

Unity in Diversity

Different communities, Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Muslims, respected different sacred places.

This helped connect people from far-off regions.

SHORT QUESTION AND ANSWER

Q1. What is meant by sacred land?

Ans. Land considered holy due to its link with gods, myths, saints, rivers, or temples is called sacred land.

Q2. Which river is most sacred to Hindus?

Ans. The Ganga River is considered the most sacred.

Q3. Name two pilgrimage cities on the Ganga.

Ans. Varanasi and Prayagraj are two important pilgrimage cities.

Q4. Why is Prayagraj important?

Ans. Prayagraj is sacred because it is the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.

Q5. Which mountains were considered holy?

Ans. The Himalayas and Mount Kailash were considered holy.

Q6. What was believed about the Himalayas?

Ans. The Himalayas were considered the abode of gods like Lord Shiva.

Q7. Why were forests considered sacred?

Ans. Forests were linked with hermits, sages, and religious practices, so they were sacred.

Q8. Name two famous temples that made places sacred.

Ans. Jagannath Temple (Puri) and Somnath Temple (Gujarat).

Q9. Which temple is known as the Sun Temple?

Ans. The Konark Temple in Odisha.

Q10. Why did cities like Kashi become famous?

Ans. Kashi (Varanasi) became famous for its temples and religious importance.

Q11. What is a pilgrimage (tirtha yatra)?

Ans. A journey to sacred places for religious purposes is called a pilgrimage.

Q12. Name two important pilgrimage towns in South India.

Ans. Kanchipuram and Rameswaram are important pilgrimage towns.

Q13. What is the Kumbh Mela?

Ans. A great religious fair held at river confluences like Prayagraj and Haridwar.

Q14. How did pilgrimage promote unity?

Ans. People from different regions came together, sharing culture and faith.

Q15. Which communities considered land sacred?

Ans. Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Muslims considered land sacred.

Q16. Name one Buddhist sacred site.

Ans. Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment.

Q17. Name one Jain sacred site.

Ans. Palitana Hills in Gujarat or Shravanabelagola in Karnataka.

Q18. Which places became sacred for Muslims?

Ans. Dargahs of Sufi saints, such as Ajmer Sharif.

Q19. Why were dargahs important?

Ans. People believed the blessings of Sufi saints could solve problems.

Q20. What are maths and ashrams?

Ans. Religious centres of Hindu saints and teachers.

Q21. Which saint is associated with Bhakti in South India?

Ans. Saint Ramanuja.

Q22. Which Sufi saint’s dargah is in Ajmer?

Ans. Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s dargah is in Ajmer.

Q23. Why did rulers build temples?

Ans. To show power, devotion, and gain religious merit.

Q24. Which Gupta temple is still famous?

Ans. The Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh.

Q25. Which period is called the “Age of Temple Building”?

Ans. The medieval period.

Q26. Why was Rameswaram sacred?

Ans. It is associated with Lord Rama’s journey in the Ramayana.

Q27. How did sacred sites help trade?

Ans. Pilgrims brought trade, markets, and prosperity to towns.

Q28. Name a famous temple of Chola rulers.

Ans. Brihadeshwara Temple at Thanjavur.

Q29. Which two features often made places sacred?

Ans. Natural features (rivers, mountains) and human-built structures (temples, dargahs).

Q30. What did sacred land represent in India?

Ans. Unity in diversity of faiths and traditions.

Q31. Why did people bathe in sacred rivers?

Ans. They believed it washed away sins.

Q32. Name one sacred place linked with Lord Krishna.

Ans. Mathura or Vrindavan.

Q33. Why did pilgrims travel long distances?

Ans. To gain religious merit, blessings, and spiritual peace.

Q34. What is a dargah?

Ans. A tomb of a Sufi saint considered sacred.

Q35. Which religion associates Bodh Gaya as sacred?

Ans. Buddhism.

Q36. Which sacred place is linked with Jain saint Bahubali?

Ans. Shravanabelagola in Karnataka.

Q37. What is the importance of Jagannath Temple at Puri?

Ans. It is a major pilgrimage site and famous for the Rath Yatra.

Q38. How did sacred land influence society?

Ans. It encouraged religious harmony, trade, and cultural growth.

Q39. Why are temples called centres of culture?

Ans. Because they were centres of religion, learning, art, and music.

Q40. What is the main message of this chapter?

Ans. Geography and religion were deeply linked, making land sacred and uniting people.

LONG QUESTION–ANSWERS

Q1. Explain why rivers became sacred in India.

Ans. Rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, Narmada, and Godavari were considered sacred because people believed bathing in them washed away sins. Pilgrimage centres developed on their banks, such as Varanasi and Prayagraj. The rivers also supported agriculture and trade, so people associated them with life and prosperity. Religious stories in epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata further glorified these rivers, making them holy places of worship.

Q2. How did mountains and forests become sacred in India?

Ans. Many mountains like the Himalayas and Kailash were considered abodes of gods. Mount Kailash is linked with Lord Shiva. Forests became sacred as they were home to hermits and sages who meditated there. They were also connected with myths and legends. People respected forests and mountains as sources of water and life, and thus considered them divine.

Q3. Explain the role of temples in making land sacred.

Ans. Temples were not just places of worship but also centres of art, learning, and culture. Rulers built large temples such as Jagannath Temple in Puri, Somnath in Gujarat, and Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur. These temples attracted pilgrims and turned towns into sacred cities. They also became centres of festivals, fairs, and economic activity. Thus, temples played a big role in making land sacred.

Q4. Why did pilgrimage become important in medieval India?

Ans. Pilgrimage (tirtha yatra) was believed to wash away sins and bring spiritual peace. Large gatherings like Kumbh Mela brought people from far-off regions together. Pilgrimage towns like Varanasi, Kanchipuram, and Rameswaram became famous centres of devotion. It also promoted trade and cultural exchange. Thus, pilgrimage became an important part of religious and social life in India.

Q5. How did saints and Sufis make places sacred?

Ans. Saints like Ramanuja and Kabir, and Sufi saints like Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, attracted followers with their teachings. Their ashrams and dargahs became centres of devotion and worship. People believed visiting such places brought blessings. Ajmer Sharif Dargah and Hindu maths became important pilgrimage spots. Thus, saints and Sufis gave spiritual importance to many towns.

Q6. Describe the importance of Kashi (Varanasi) as a sacred city.

Ans. Kashi, also known as Varanasi, is one of the oldest and holiest cities of India. It lies on the banks of the Ganga and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is famous for its ghats, temples, and religious rituals. People believe dying in Kashi gives liberation (moksha). Pilgrims from all over India visit Kashi, making it a major sacred city.

Q7. How did religion and geography become linked in India?

Ans. Natural features like rivers, mountains, and forests became associated with gods, myths, and saints. Human-built structures like temples and dargahs turned towns into sacred places. This link between geography and religion gave spiritual meaning to land. For example, Ganga is both a river and a goddess. Thus, land itself became holy and united people through faith.

Q8. Discuss the role of rulers in making places sacred.

Ans. Kings and rulers built grand temples to show their devotion and power. For example, Chola rulers built Brihadeshwara Temple, and Ganga rulers built the Jagannath Temple. Rulers also supported pilgrimages and fairs. By doing so, they made their kingdoms religious centres, attracting both devotees and traders. Sacred sites strengthened their rule and legacy.

Q9. How did sacred land promote cultural unity in India?

Ans. Pilgrims from different regions met at sacred sites and shared languages, food, and customs. Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Muslims all had their own holy places, but respected each other’s beliefs. Festivals like Kumbh Mela became platforms for unity. Thus, sacred land became a bridge connecting people across India.

Q10. Why is the Jagannath Temple in Puri considered important?

Ans. The Jagannath Temple in Odisha is one of the Char Dhams (four holy pilgrimages). It is famous for the annual Rath Yatra, when huge chariots carry the deities. Thousands of devotees gather from all over India. The temple also encouraged trade and cultural exchange in Odisha. Hence, it became a symbol of sacredness and devotion.

Q11. What is the importance of Bodh Gaya?

Ans. Bodh Gaya in Bihar is sacred to Buddhists because it is the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. It became an international pilgrimage site. The Mahabodhi Temple built here is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Thus, Bodh Gaya has both religious and historical importance.

Q12. How did the Kumbh Mela become an important tradition?

Ans. The Kumbh Mela is held at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. It is linked with Hindu mythology and the sacred rivers. Millions of devotees gather to bathe in the rivers, believing it purifies the soul. The fair also became an opportunity for trade, cultural programs, and exchange of ideas. It remains one of the largest gatherings in the world.

Q13. Explain the role of Sufi dargahs in Indian society.

Ans. Sufi dargahs, such as Ajmer Sharif, became centres of devotion where people of all religions came for blessings. Sufi saints preached love, equality, and peace. Their shrines became sacred spaces for spiritual healing. This promoted harmony and unity in a diverse society.

Q14. How did temple building impact the economy?

Ans. Temples required craftsmen, sculptors, and workers, providing employment. Pilgrims brought wealth, which supported markets near temples. Donations made temples rich and influential. They also served as banks, granaries, and schools. Thus, temple building boosted both the economy and culture.

Q15. Why was Rameswaram considered sacred?

Ans. Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu is associated with Lord Rama’s journey in the Ramayana. It is believed that Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here before crossing to Lanka. This myth made Rameswaram a major pilgrimage site. It is also one of the Char Dhams.

Q16. Explain how Jain sites became sacred.

Ans. Jain sacred sites like Shravanabelagola and Palitana Hills became famous due to saints and giant statues. Pilgrimages to these places were believed to bring spiritual purity. The teachings of Jainism spread through such sacred centres. Thus, Jain sites added diversity to India’s sacred geography.

Q17. Why are temples called centres of culture?

Ans. Temples were not only religious sites but also places where music, dance, and art flourished. They housed schools and libraries. Festivals and rituals in temples encouraged cultural exchange. Thus, temples preserved and spread Indian culture.

Q18. How did sacred places support trade?

Ans. Pilgrims coming to sacred places required food, lodging, and goods. This encouraged trade and markets around temples and shrines. For example, Puri and Kanchipuram became both religious and trading centres. Sacred places thus helped in economic growth.

Q19. How did sacred land shape India’s identity?

Ans. Sacred land gave people a sense of belonging and unity. Despite different religions, everyone had their holy sites. Rivers, temples, and dargahs tied people to their geography. This created a spiritual identity for India as a land of devotion.

Q20. What is the main lesson from the chapter “How the Land Becomes Sacred”?

Ans. The chapter teaches that geography and religion were deeply linked in India. Rivers, mountains, temples, and saints made land holy. Sacred land brought unity among people, promoted culture, and shaped India’s history.

MCQS (WITH ANSWERS)

Q1. Which river is most sacred to Hindus?

a) Narmada

b) Ganga

c) Kaveri

d) Godavari

Ans. b) Ganga

Q2. Which city is known as the city of Lord Shiva?

a) Puri

b) Kanchipuram

c) Varanasi

d) Madurai

Ans. c) Varanasi

Q3. Which mountain is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva?

a) Himalaya

b) Kailash

c) Nilgiri

d) Vindhya

Ans. b) Kailash

Q4. Which temple is famous for its Rath Yatra?

a) Somnath

b) Jagannath Temple

c) Brihadeshwara

d) Sun Temple, Konark

Ans. b) Jagannath Temple

Q5. Bodh Gaya is sacred to which religion?

a) Hinduism

b) Jainism

c) Buddhism

d) Islam

Ans. c) Buddhism

Q6. Which place is associated with Rama’s worship of Lord Shiva before going to Lanka?

a) Kanchipuram

b) Rameswaram

c) Madurai

d) Shravanabelagola

Ans. b) Rameswaram

Q7. The Kumbh Mela is held after every:

a) 6 years

b) 10 years

c) 12 years

d) 15 years

Ans. c) 12 years

Q8. Which river is linked with Prayagraj Sangam?

a) Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati

b) Ganga, Kaveri, Godavari

c) Yamuna, Narmada, Tapti

d) Ganga, Godavari, Krishna

Ans. a) Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati

Q9. The Ajmer Sharif Dargah is associated with which Sufi saint?

a) Nizamuddin Auliya

b) Baba Farid

c) Moinuddin Chishti

d) Kabir

Ans. c) Moinuddin Chishti

Q10. Which dynasty built the Brihadeshwara Temple?

a) Chalukyas

b) Pallavas

c) Cholas

d) Guptas

Ans. c) Cholas

Q11. Which river is considered the lifeline of Odisha’s Jagannath Temple?

a) Godavari

b) Mahanadi

c) Ganga

d) Kaveri

Ans. b) Mahanadi

Q12. Shravanabelagola is a sacred site of which religion?

a) Hinduism

b) Jainism

c) Buddhism

d) Islam

Ans. b) Jainism

Q13. Which tree at Bodh Gaya is linked with Buddha’s enlightenment?

a) Neem tree

b) Banyan tree

c) Peepal (Bodhi tree)

d) Mango tree

Ans. c) Peepal (Bodhi tree)

Q14. Which pilgrimage is considered one of the Char Dham?

a) Madurai

b) Rameswaram

c) Ajmer

d) Amarnath

Ans. b) Rameswaram

Q15. Which temple in Gujarat was destroyed by Mahmud of Ghazni?

a) Jagannath Temple

b) Somnath Temple

c) Brihadeshwara Temple

d) Meenakshi Temple

Ans. b) Somnath Temple

Q16. Which religion is associated with the Mahabodhi Temple?

a) Hinduism

b) Buddhism

c) Jainism

d) Islam

Ans. b) Buddhism

Q17. Which holy place is associated with the belief of attaining moksha by dying there?

a) Madurai

b) Puri

c) Varanasi

d) Nashik

Ans. c) Varanasi

Q18. Which river is associated with the story of Bhagirath bringing it to earth?

a) Godavari

b) Yamuna

c) Ganga

d) Krishna

Ans. c) Ganga

Q19. Which ruler promoted Jagannath Temple as a great centre of devotion?

a) Cholas

b) Ganga kings

c) Mauryas

d) Guptas

Ans. b) Ganga kings

Q20. Which state is Rameswaram located in?

a) Kerala

b) Tamil Nadu

c) Andhra Pradesh

d) Karnataka

Ans. b) Tamil Nadu

Q21. Which sacred city is also called Kashi?

a) Puri

b) Varanasi

c) Nashik

d) Madurai

Ans. b) Varanasi

Q22. The Mahabodhi Temple is in which state?

a) Odisha

b) Bihar

c) Uttar Pradesh

d) Madhya Pradesh

Ans. b) Bihar

Q23. Which sacred city is famous for ghats on the Ganga?

a) Prayagraj

b) Varanasi

c) Haridwar

d) Nashik

Ans. b) Varanasi

Q24. Which Sufi principle made dargahs popular?

a) Violence

b) Equality and love

c) Royal power

d) Trade

Ans. b) Equality and love

Q25. Which place is sacred for both Hindus and Buddhists?

a) Bodh Gaya

b) Prayagraj

c) Rameswaram

d) Ajmer

Ans. a) Bodh Gaya

Q26. The Rath Yatra of Jagannath Temple is held in which month?

a) January

b) March

c) June/July

d) November

Ans. c) June/July

Q27. Which river is linked with Haridwar Kumbh Mela?

a) Ganga

b) Yamuna

c) Godavari

d) Krishna

Ans. a) Ganga

Q28. Which community worships Mount Girnar in Gujarat?

a) Hindus

b) Jains

c) Buddhists

d) Sufis

Ans. b) Jains

Q29. The word "Tirtha" means:

a) Holy food

b) Sacred journey or crossing place

c) Temple gate

d) Prayer ritual

Ans. b) Sacred journey or crossing place

Q30. The festival of Kumbh Mela is linked with:

a) Battle of Kurukshetra

b) Churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan)

c) Birth of Buddha

d) Life of Ashoka

Ans. b) Churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan)

Q31. Which city is famous for the Meenakshi Temple?

a) Thanjavur

b) Puri

c) Madurai

d) Rameswaram

Ans. c) Madurai

Q32. Which dynasty patronised Ajanta and Ellora caves?

a) Mauryas

b) Guptas

c) Chalukyas

d) Rashtrakutas

Ans. d) Rashtrakutas

Q33. Which river is sacred to both Hindus and Muslims in South India?

a) Kaveri

b) Krishna

c) Tungabhadra

d) Godavari

Ans. c) Tungabhadra

Q34. Which religion associates sacredness with Mount Abu (Dilwara temples)?

a) Buddhism

b) Jainism

c) Hinduism

d) Islam

Ans. b) Jainism

Q35. Who among the following was a Bhakti saint?

a) Kabir

b) Al Biruni

c) Mahmud of Ghazni

d) Akbar

Ans. a) Kabir

Q36. Which Muslim saint’s dargah is in Delhi?

a) Nizamuddin Auliya

b) Baba Farid

c) Moinuddin Chishti

d) Khwaja Banda Nawaz

Ans. a) Nizamuddin Auliya

Q37. Which is the largest religious gathering in the world?

a) Rath Yatra

b) Eid celebrations

c) Kumbh Mela

d) Diwali

Ans. c) Kumbh Mela

Q38. Which state is famous for Konark Sun Temple?

a) Bihar

b) Odisha

c) Rajasthan

d) Kerala

Ans. b) Odisha

Q39. Which Buddhist site is in Sarnath?

a) Enlightenment

b) First sermon

c) Nirvana

d) Birth

Ans. b) First sermon

Q40. Which Hindu belief is linked with sacred rivers?

a) Rebirth

b) Moksha

c) Liberation from sin through bathing

d) Salvation by fasting

Ans. c) Liberation from sin through bathing