NCERT Solutions-Chapter 8–How the Land Becomes Sacred-Class 7 SST

Exercise Question Answers Chapter 8–How the Land Becomes Sacred Class 7 Subject Social Science

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Q1. Read the following statement by a well-known environmental thinker, David Suzuki:

“The way we see the world shapes the way we treat it. If a mountain is a deity, not a pile of ore; if a river is one of the veins of the land, not potential irrigation water; if a forest is a sacred grove, not timber; if other species are biological kin, not resources; or if the planet is our mother, not an opportunity—then we will treat each other with greater respect. Thus is the challenge, to look at the world from a different perspective.” Discuss in small groups. What do you think this statement means? What implication does it have for our actions with respect to the air, water, land, trees and mountains around us?

Answer: The statement mean and its implications:

It means that how we view nature affects how we treat it.
If we see rivers, forests, and mountains as sacred, we treat them with respect.
Viewing Earth as our mother creates a sense of care and protection.
This helps reduce pollution, deforestation, and exploitation.
We become more responsible toward conserving air, water, land, and wildlife.

Q2. List the sacred sites in your region. Enquire into why they are considered sacred. Are there stories connected with these sacred places? Write a short essay of 150 words. (Hint: You could speak to elders in your family and community, discuss with your teacher, read books and articles, etc., to gather relevant information.)

Answer:

(Sample – customizable by student)

Example: Vaishno Devi (Jammu & Kashmir) or Pandharpur (Maharashtra).
These places are linked with stories of gods/goddesses or saints.
People believe miracles or spiritual events happened there.
Pilgrims visit to pray and take blessings.
The local community respects these places and protects them.

Q3. Why do you think natural elements like rivers, mountains and forests are considered sacred for the people? How do they contribute to our lives?

Answer:

People see nature as divine—rivers as goddesses, forests as homes of deities.
They provide water, food, shelter, and medicines.
Mountains are symbols of spiritual connection (heaven and earth).
Sacredness helps protect biodiversity and natural resources.
They support cultural rituals and local traditions.

Q4. Why do people visit a tīrtha or other sacred sites?

Answer:

To perform religious duties and gain spiritual blessings.
As an act of devotion and self-purification.
To connect with traditions, values, and stories of faith.
To experience inner peace and transformation.
Sometimes to fulfill vows or express gratitude.

Q5. How did the ancient pilgrimage routes help in fostering trade during those times? Do you think the sacred sites help in developing the economy of the region?

Answer:

Pilgrims needed food, clothes, and religious items—traders supplied them.
Routes like Uttarapatha and Dakshinapatha linked holy places and markets.
Pilgrims and traders often traveled together.
Local economies developed around temples and shrines.
Today, sacred tourism still supports hotels, transport, and crafts.

Q6. How do sacred places influence the culture and traditions of the people living near them?

Answer:

People living near sacred places follow customs linked to them.

Festivals, songs, and rituals are passed down generations.

Sacred trees, groves, and rivers are protected by the community.

They promote unity and shared identity.

Legends from epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata are localized.

Q7. From the various sacred sites of India, select two of your choice and create a project explaining their significance.

Answer:

(Example – editable by student)

Bodh Gaya, Bihar
- Place where the Buddha attained enlightenment.
- A major pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
- Visited by monks and tourists worldwide.
Sabarimala, Kerala
- Dedicated to Lord Ayyappa.
- Reached through forest treks, symbolizing inner struggle.
- Followed by strict vows and discipline.