Consider the following statements :

1. There are no parables in Upanishads. 

2. Upanishads were composed earlier than the Puranas.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct answer is Option 2.

Key Points

• Upanishads contain Parables
  • The Upanishads, while primarily philosophical treatises, do incorporate parables or illustrative stories to explain complex concepts.
  • These parables help convey deeper meanings in a way that resonates with listeners.
  • For example, the parable of the blind men and the elephant describes how different people perceive reality based on their limited perspectives. Hence, Statement 1 is incorrect. 
• Upanishads predate Puranas
  •  The Upanishads are generally considered to be older than the Puranas.
  • The Upanishads originated between 800 BCE and 400 BCE, while the Puranas are estimated to have been composed between 300 BCE and 1200 CE.
  • The Upanishads represent the culmination of the Vedic period's philosophical thought, whereas the Puranas emerged during the later Hinduism period, often incorporating and elaborating upon concepts introduced in the Upanishads. Hence, Statement 2 is correct.