Module: | Communal Harmony & Inter-faith Dynamics
Q69: Consider the following statements regarding the dynamic between orthodoxy and tolerance in the text:
1. Pakshi Lakshmana Sastry is described as the high priest of the Rameswaram temple, representing a position of deep religious orthodoxy.
2. Because of his strict orthodoxy, Sastry refused to engage in personal or theological discussions with individuals of the Islamic faith.
3. The narrative uses Sastry to demonstrate that true religious orthodoxy is perfectly compatible with deep inter-faith friendship and mutual respect.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
2. Because of his strict orthodoxy, Sastry refused to engage in personal or theological discussions with individuals of the Islamic faith.
3. The narrative uses Sastry to demonstrate that true religious orthodoxy is perfectly compatible with deep inter-faith friendship and mutual respect.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
✅ Correct Answer: B
🎯 Quick Answer:
Statements 1 and 3 are correct. Sastry represented orthodoxy, yet demonstrated that it is compatible with inter-faith friendship.Tolerance is the acceptance of others' beliefs without necessarily abandoning one's own.
Structural Breakdown: Kalam presents a paradox to the modern reader: the most traditional Hindu figure (the high priest) is the closest friend to the devout Muslim (Jainulabdeen). Historical/Related Context: This shatters the modern misconception that religious adherence inevitably leads to communal friction.
In Kalam's Rameswaram, deeply orthodox individuals found common spiritual ground precisely because they were both profoundly religious men.
Causal Reasoning: Statement 2 is completely incorrect because the text explicitly states that Sastry and Jainulabdeen were very close friends who sat together discussing spiritual matters.