Question

Choose the order of characteristics of Śūnyatā : A. Śāntam B. Aparapratyayam C. Prapañcairaprapañcitam D. Nirvikalpam E. Anānārtha Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. A, B, C, D, E
• B. A, B, D, C, E
• C. B, A, C, D, E
• D. A, B, C, E, D

Hint:

Questions on Nāgārjuna often depend on exact Sanskrit verse order. Memorizing the sequence “Aparapratyayaṃ Śāntaṃ...” helps solve such questions quickly.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Nāgārjuna explains the nature of Śūnyatā (Emptiness) in the Mūlamadhyamakakārikā. He describes ultimate reality through a series of characteristics that negate conceptual proliferation and dualistic thinking.

Step 1: Writing the original Sanskrit verse. The relevant verse is: \[ aparapratyayaṃ\ śāntaṃ\ prapañcairaprapañcitam \] \[ nirvikalpam\ anānārtham\ etattattvasya\ lakṣaṇam \]

Step 2: Identifying the sequence from the verse. The order of characteristics is:
• Aparapratyayam
• Śāntam
• Prapañcairaprapañcitam
• Nirvikalpam
• Anānārtham

Step 3: Matching the letters.
• B = Aparapratyayam
• A = Śāntam
• C = Prapañcairaprapañcitam
• D = Nirvikalpam
• E = Anānārtha Thus the sequence becomes: \[ \boxed{B,\ A,\ C,\ D,\ E} \]

Step 4: Philosophical significance of the sequence.
• Aparapratyayam indicates direct realization.
• Śāntam indicates peacefulness beyond worldly disturbance.
• Prapañcairaprapañcitam means beyond conceptual elaboration.
• Nirvikalpam means free from distinctions and imagination.
• Anānārtha means non-dual and non-diverse reality. Together, these define the Madhyamaka understanding of ultimate truth.