Ayag Patta And The Beginning Of Jain Cult Workship

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text, "Ayagapatta and the Beginning of Jaina Cult Worship" by A.L. Srivastava:

Central Theme: The article explores the ayagapattas (stone slabs bearing auspicious symbols) found in Mathura as crucial evidence for the early stages of Jaina cult worship, preceding the widespread creation of Tirthankara images.

Key Arguments and Findings:

• Mathura as an Early Jaina Hub: Mathura is identified as a significant center for early Jainism, evidenced by the discovery of the earliest Jaina stupas and Tirthankara images. The text cites inscriptions indicating the presence of Jaina structures and worship activities dating back to the 2nd century BCE and the early 1st century CE.
• Ayagapattas Precede Images: The author strongly asserts that ayagapattas are anterior to Jaina images. They represent an earlier phase of worship where abstract symbols and auspicious motifs were the primary focus.
• Types of Ayagapattas:
  • Symbol-Only Ayagapattas: These are the earlier type, featuring various auspicious symbols like svastika, srivatsa, nandyavarta, kalasa, etc. Examples include the "cakra-pata" and "caitya-pata" with elaborate carvings of wheels, garland-bearing maidens, stupas, railings, gateways, and even representations of deities and devotees. These are dated to the pre-Kanishka period or the first half of the 1st century CE.
  • Tirthankarapata (Image-with-Symbol Ayagapattas): These are later in development, incorporating a central seated Tirthankara image alongside auspicious symbols. These are attributed to the Kushana age.
• Significance of Symbols: The symbols depicted on the ayagapattas (svastika, srivatsa, nandyavarta, kalasa, etc.) are identified as sacred and auspicious within Jainism, particularly the asta-mangalika cihnas (eight auspicious signs).
• Purpose of Ayagapattas: The term "ayaga" is interpreted as an "object of worship." The ayagapattas were not architectural elements but rather objects for Arhat worship. This is supported by inscriptions explicitly stating their dedication for "arahata pujaye" (for the worship of the Arhats). The text draws parallels to Buddhist ayaka-khambhas and Buddhapadas which also served as objects of veneration.
• Evolution of Worship: The installation of ayagapattas was a pious act. The practice eventually declined with the rise of Tirthankara image worship. However, some ayagapattas illustrate the transitional phase, combining both symbol worship and the nascent image worship, demonstrating the continuity of symbolic veneration.
• Potential Ancestors of Ayagapattas: The text suggests that puhumi or prithivi silapattas mentioned in Jain scriptures might be the prototypes of the ayagapattas, possibly originating from clay slabs used in folk worship under tree-caityas.
• Artistic Merit: The ayagapattas are praised for their fine workmanship, showcasing the artists' skill in depicting auspicious symbols and religious motifs.

In essence, the article argues that Mathura's ayagapattas provide a vital historical link, demonstrating that Jaina worship began with the veneration of auspicious symbols before evolving into the more prevalent image-based worship of Tirthankaras. They mark a significant step in the development of Jaina religious practices and cultic worship.