Question

According to which tradition, “Be lamps unto yourselves as all of you must work out your own liberation”?

• A. Buddhist
• B. Jainism
• C. Ajivikas
• D. Lokayatas

Hint:

Mnemonic: “Atta deepo bhava” (Be a light unto yourself) is Gautama Buddha's celebrated dying message to his disciples in the Mahaparinibbana Sutta.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:
Early heterodox philosophical traditions in India rejected the supreme authority of the Vedas, sacrificial efficacy, and hereditary Brahmanical hierarchy.
Buddhism emphasized personal effort, self-reliance, ethical living, and psychological introspection as the path to end human suffering (dukkha).

Step 1: Tracing the Origin of the Quote:
The famous aphorism, “Be lamps unto yourselves as all of you must work out your own liberation” (Atta dipa bhava), constitutes the parting instruction of Gautama Buddha.
According to the Mahaparinibbana Sutta of the Buddhist Sutta Pitaka, as the Buddha approached his final demise at Kushinagar, his beloved disciple Ananda questioned who would guide the Sangha after his passing.
The Buddha replied that monks must not look to an external savior or leader, but must be their own refuge and light by diligently treading the Dhamma.

Step 2: Evaluating the Philosophical Fit:
Buddhism stresses that individual actions (kamma) determine destiny and that salvation cannot be granted by external grace, ritual sacrifices, or fatalistic forces.
Jainism, while emphasizing self-effort, centers on severe penance, extreme asceticism, and monastic vows.
Ajivikas, founded by Makkhali Gosala, were strict determinists who believed in Niyati (fate), rejecting personal agency altogether.
Lokayatas (Charvakas) were thorough materialists who rejected the concept of rebirth and transcendental liberation.
Final Answer:
The statement belongs to the Buddhist tradition.