Final answer:
In Hinduism, the four life stages are student, householder, forest-dweller, and ascetic; the correct answer to the question is B. Householder. Sages, although crucial in religious teachings, are not listed among these stages of life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The four stages in Hinduism include student (brahmacharya), householder (grihastha), forest-dweller (vanaprastha), and ascetic (sannyasa). The correct answer to the question on the four stages of life in Hinduism is B. Householder. In these stages, individuals are expected to pursue different goals and duties appropriate to their station in life. The householder stage is characterized by the pursuit of a career, raising a family, and fulfilling social responsibilities.
In classical Indian philosophy and religion, sages and their teachings play a significant role in shaping spiritual and philosophical practice. The Seven Sages, or Saptarishi, are considered both mythic and wise men and are connected to the ancient Indian texts known as the Vedas. The sage stage, however, is not typically listed among the four life stages (ashramas) of Hindu tradition, as these stage focus more on societal and personal development rather than spiritual hierarchy.
Two principal traditions of religious thought developed within Hinduism. In the western part of the Ganges River valley, a priest-led culture with emphasis on rituals known as Vedic Hinduism developed. In the eastern Ganges plains, the focus was on ascetic practices, meditation, and the spiritual development of individuals. This environment also saw the rise of Jainism and Buddhism, though these are distinct and separate religions from Hinduism.