CLASS 7 · SOCIAL STUDIES · CHAPTER 8
How the Land Becomes Sacred
Clear answers to eight questions about sacred landscapes, pilgrimage, trade and cultural traditions, with local research guidance.
8 worked answersComplete chapter answers
8 worked answers · short steps first, explanations when you need them
Questions and activities
Textbook pages 181–183
Question 1
What does David Suzuki’s statement mean? What does it suggest about how we should treat air, water, land, trees and mountains?
Explain that seeing nature as valuable encourages care; give practical examples such as saving water and preventing pollution.
Answer
Our view of nature can shape responsible behaviour.
Question 2
List sacred sites in your region, find out why they are sacred and whether stories are connected with them, then write an essay of about 150 words.
For example, Bodh Gaya, the Golden Temple and Ajmer Sharif are important to different communities for distinct religious and historical reasons.
Answer
Choose local sites, ask why they matter, and verify stories respectfully.
Question 3
Why are rivers, mountains and forests considered sacred by many people? How do they contribute to our lives?
Give both cultural reasons and practical contributions such as water, climate, habitats and livelihoods.
Answer
Natural places can be spiritually meaningful and essential for life.
Question 4
Why do people visit a tīrtha or other sacred site?
Mention worship, spiritual growth, festivals, community, learning and sometimes trade.
Answer
People travel for religious as well as social and cultural reasons.
Question 5
How did ancient pilgrimage routes foster trade? Do sacred sites help develop a region’s economy?
Shared routes brought travellers and merchants together; visitor needs supported local trade and services.
Answer
Sacred sites can help local economies when activity is managed responsibly.
Question 6
How do sacred places influence the culture and traditions of people living nearby?
Describe how sacred places shape festivals, stories, arts, gatherings, identity and local livelihoods.
Answer
Their influence can be religious, cultural and economic.
Question 7
Choose two sacred sites in India and create a project explaining their significance.
For each site, show its location, significance, visitors’ purposes, history and care needs.
Answer
This is a project outline; add research on your selected sites.
Question 8
What is the two-fold significance of a tīrthayātrā or pilgrimage?
Personal: devotion and spiritual growth. Social: connection, cultural exchange and sometimes trade.
Answer
Pilgrimage can benefit both the traveller and connected communities.