NCERT Solutions for Class 7 Social Science Chapter 8: How the Land Becomes Sacred

NCERT Solutions Class 7 Social Science Chapter 8 How the Land Becomes Sacred (2025-26) - Exercise Solutions

Questions and Activities

1. 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 means that if we see rivers, mountains, forests, and the earth as sacred and living beings, we will respect and protect them more. It urges us to view nature not as resources to be used, but as part of our extended family, leading us to act responsibly towards the environment.

   
   

2. 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: (Student’s own response required. Sample answer:) In my region, the Ganga River, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and Sankat Mochan Temple are considered sacred. The Ganga is believed to purify the soul, and the Kashi Vishwanath is one of the twelve jyotirlingas of Shiva. Local stories say Lord Shiva himself resides here, granting liberation from the cycle of life and death. During festivals, thousands of devotees gather here, performing special rituals and aarti on the riverbanks, which shows deep cultural attachment. These sacred places connect people to ancient traditions and values, involving legends, rituals, and beliefs passed down through generations. The stories told by elders add to the reverence and the cultural richness of the sites.

   
   

3. 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: Rivers, mountains, and forests are considered sacred because they support life, provide fresh water, shelter, food, and are linked to religious beliefs and stories. They contribute by giving us natural resources, preserving biodiversity, maintaining balance in nature, and offering spaces for spiritual practices and festivals.

   
   

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

   
   

   Answer: People visit a tīrtha or sacred site to seek blessings, pray, and perform rituals. Such visits are believed to purify the mind and soul, fulfill vows, express gratitude, and connect spiritually with the divine. Pilgrimages also help people find inner peace and unite them with wider communities.

   
   

5. 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: Ancient pilgrimage routes often followed major trade paths. Pilgrims and traders mingled, exchanging goods and ideas. Sacred sites attract visitors, boosting local economies—through tourism, hospitality, transport, and local artisans. Thus, pilgrimage sites continue to contribute to regional economic growth and development.

   
   

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

   
   

   Answer: Sacred places influence local culture through festivals, rituals, art, and music. They create traditions that bring communities together, shape values like respect for nature and hospitality, and inspire stories, dances, and local crafts unique to those regions. They also foster a sense of shared identity among people.

   
   

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

   
   

   Answer: (Sample points: Student’s own project required. Example: Varanasi—regarded as the spiritual capital of India, connected with the Ganga River and Lord Shiva. Amarnath Cave—famous pilgrimage for Shiva devotees, known for the naturally formed ice-linga. Both sites attract millions yearly, enriching local culture and economy.)

   
   

8. What is the two-fold significance of a tīrthayātrā or a pilgrimage?

   
   

   Answer: A tīrthayātrā or pilgrimage has a two-fold significance: First, it is a physical journey to a sacred site for religious merit; second, it is a spiritual journey that leads to inner transformation, self-discipline, and deeper devotion, helping one cross from the ordinary to a more meaningful life.

   
   

How the Land Becomes Sacred – NCERT Class 7 Social Science Chapter 8 Overview

Understanding the concept of sacred geography is essential for Class 7 students. This chapter explores how places become sacred through legends, pilgrimages, and cultural practices, giving depth to our study of India's heritage.

Through the NCERT Solutions Class 7 Social Science Chapter 8 How the Land Becomes Sacred (2025-26), students discover stories behind holy rivers, forests, and hills, connecting classroom lessons to real-life traditions and festivals.

For exam success, focus on practicing questions and answers regularly, and remember to review examples of sacred sites, as these enrich your knowledge and help score better in Social Science assessments.