- The first Jain Council was convened at Pataliputra by Sthulabahu, the leader of the Digambaras, in the beginning of the 3rd century B.C.
- The second Jain Council was held at Valabhi in 5th century A.D. The final compilation of Jain literature called Twelve Angas was completed in this council.
| Important terms related to jainism
• ASRAV- Inflow of karmas to the soul that occurs at every second in life. • SAMVARA– Stoppage of the influx of the material karmas into the soul consciousness. • NIRJARA – Shedding or removal of accumulated karmas from the atma (soul), essential for breaking free from samsara, the cycle of birth-death and rebirth, by achieving moksha, liberation. It is one of the seven fundamental principles, or Tattva in Jain philosophy. • SALLEKHANA– It is the religious practice of voluntarily fasting to death by gradually reducing the intake of food and liquids. Also Called Santhara. • KAIVALYA, also known as Kevala Jnana, means omniscience in Jainism and is roughly translated as complete understanding or supreme wisdom. |
Decline of Jainism in India
- Absence of royal patronage
- Split amongst Jains as Digambaras and Swetambaras
- The severity of practices
- Spread of Buddhism as a rival faith led to the decline of Jainism
Contribution of Jainism
- Preached Non-violence toward all living beings.
- Growth of Prakrit & kannada language. Vardhaman Mahavir preached in ‘Ardha-Magadhi’ language, the language of the common man.
- Introduced new philosophy – syatvad.
- Art & architecture – statue of Gomateshwara (Shramanbdlogola), temples of Khajuraho and Abu. Tiger cave of Udayagiri and Indra Sabha of Ellora.
- Jainism contributed to the growth of the trading community.
Q. Which one of the following is not a part of early Jaina literature?
(a) Therigatha
(b) Acarangasutra
(c) Sutrakritanga
(d) Brihatkalpasutra
Ans: (a)
