Question

According to Charak, the body consists of how many parts?

• A. Four
• B. Five
• C. Six
• D. Seven

Hint:

Remember the Shadanga Sharira concept: \[ \text{2 Arms} + \text{2 Legs} + \text{Head/Neck} + \text{Trunk} = 6 \] according to the Charaka Samhita.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: In Ayurveda, especially in the Charaka Samhita, the human body is systematically described for understanding health, disease, and treatment. Charaka classified the body into six major parts (Shadanga Sharira). This classification helps in anatomical and therapeutic understanding of the body structure.

Step 1: Understand the six-part division of the body according to Charaka.
According to Charaka, the body consists of six parts:
• Two upper limbs
• Two lower limbs
• Head and neck
• Trunk (middle body) Thus: \[ 2 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 6 \] Therefore: \[ \text{Body consists of six parts} \]

Step 2: Analyze the given options.
Option (A): Four
Incorrect. The body is not divided into four parts according to Charaka. Option (B): Five
Incorrect. Five-part division is not the accepted classification here. Option (C): Six
Correct. Charaka describes the body as consisting of six major parts. Option (D): Seven
Incorrect. Seven refers to other Ayurvedic classifications such as Dhatus, not body parts.

Step 3: Identify the correct option.
Since Charaka divides the body into six parts, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{\text{Six}} \]