What is the meaning of the term ‘Shiksha’ derived from the Sanskrit root word ‘Shas’?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) To discipline.
The term ‘Shiksha’ is derived from the Sanskrit root word ‘Shas’, which means "to discipline", "to instruct", or "to teach by discipline". In the ancient Indian context, education was not merely about acquiring knowledge, but was closely linked with the moral, ethical, and disciplined development of an individual.
The Gurukul system in ancient India embodied this idea. Here, students lived with their Guru (teacher), and education encompassed not only academic learning but also character building, spiritual guidance, and training in self-restraint. The central goal of Shiksha was to create individuals who were socially responsible, morally upright, and spiritually aware.
In Vedic literature, Shiksha is also recognized as one of the six Vedangas (limbs of the Vedas), specifically concerned with phonetics and pronunciation, which emphasizes precision and discipline in the oral tradition of transmitting knowledge.
Therefore, the true spirit of ‘Shiksha’ lies in cultivating self-discipline, ethical behavior, and inner growth, along with the acquisition of external knowledge.
Information Booster:
· ‘Shas’ means to discipline, to teach, to command, or to correct.
· ‘Shiksha’ is also a branch of Vedanga focused on correct pronunciation and phonetics.
· In the Vedic period, education was seen as a spiritual and disciplinary journey, not just academic training.
· The Gurukul system embodied the ideals of ‘Shiksha’ by emphasizing humility, obedience, and discipline.
· Discipline (Anushasan) was considered essential for individual and societal harmony in ancient Indian educational philosophy.
Additional Knowledge:
· To study: While studying is a part of education, the term ‘Shiksha’ emphasizes discipline and ethical instruction rather than just the act of studying. The Sanskrit word ‘Adhyayan’ more directly means "to study."
· To learn: Learning is an outcome of education, but the word ‘Shiksha’ reflects a broader and more disciplined framework. The term ‘Path’ or ‘Vidya’ is more aligned with learning.
· To enlighten: Enlightenment is a higher goal of education, but not the direct translation of ‘Shiksha’. The Sanskrit term ‘Prabodhan’ or ‘Bodhi’ refers more directly to enlightenment.