RC 2

Directions for questions 40 and 41: The passage given below is followed by a set of two questions.

Choose the most appropriate answer to each question.

Meditation is the natural process of withdrawing attention from environmental, physical, and mental processes

and consciously directing it inward to a chosen focus of attention. But not many people know how to

practice meditation for personal benefit and spiritual growth.

The beneficial side-effects of regular meditation practice include stress reduction, strengthening of the

body's immune system, more orderly thinking, improvement in power of concentration, and a slowing of

the biological ageing process. For these reasons, meditation practice is recommended by an increasing

number of doctors as a harmless way for patient-clients to be more responsible for their own total wellbeing.

The primary purpose of meditation practice, however, is to bring forth clear states of awareness that

will make authentic spiritual growth easier to experience.

Cultivation of inner contentment prevents us from getting swept away by circumstances. Engaging in selfexamination

and self-discipline is important in order to clear away any of the psychological conflicts that

might pose a problem. Study of 'lower' or secular knowledge helps us function effectively in the world.

Many get educated so that they can live more effectively. But also important is the acquisition of higher

knowledge or metaphysics to inquire about God, cosmic mind, manifestation of universes, our relationship

with God — why are we here, and for what purpose?

When engaged in daily activities and relationships, endeavour to maintain a state of mental calmness and

Self-awareness. Cultivate cheerfulness and optimism. Maintain your emotional balance. Adhere to

wholesome routines of activity and rest. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: choose a nutritious diet and exercise

regularly. Let all of your thoughts, feelings, and actions be wholesome and constructive. You will then be

empowered to live enjoyably, effectively, and successfully.

40. Which of the following sums up the central idea of the passage most effectively?

(a) Meditation and its side-effects

(b) Meditation is essential for enjoying life

(c) Meditation- personal benefits and spiritual growth

(d) A spiritual journey for growth and self awareness

41. According to the passage, what is the most important purpose of meditation?

(a) To improve the workings of the mind and hence lead to an improvement in the biological processes.

(b) To help a follower reach states of calm and peace and allow her to live in optimism and happiness.

(c) To help a follower reach heightened states of awareness through which she can grow spiritually.

(d) To guide followers through states of lower knowledge and subsequently higher knowledge so that

they can achieve their ultimate goal.