Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Brahmo Samaj?
1. It opposed idolatry.
2. It denied the need for a priestly class for interpreting the religious texts.
3. It popularized the doctrine that the Vedas are infallible.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below :
A
1 only
B
1 and 2 only
C
3 only
D
1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: Option B
Explanation
1. Statement 1 is correct. The Brahmo Samaj, founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, was strongly opposed to idolatry and polytheism. It advocated the worship of one formless God.
2. Statement 2 is correct. The Brahmo Samaj emphasized reason and individual conscience in matters of religion. It denied the need for a priestly class or intermediaries for interpreting religious texts and communicating with God.
3. Statement 3 is incorrect. While Raja Ram Mohan Roy respected the Vedas and Upanishads as sources of ancient wisdom, the Brahmo Samaj did not uphold the doctrine of the infallibility of the Vedas or any scripture. It subjected religious texts to rational scrutiny. The belief in the infallibility of the Vedas was a cornerstone of the Arya Samaj, founded by Dayananda Saraswati, not the Brahmo Samaj.