Badmer Jile Ke Prachin Jain Shilalekh - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Badmer Jile ke Prachin Jain Shilalekh" (Ancient Jain Inscriptions of Barmer District):

Book Title: Badmer Jile ke Prachin Jain Shilalekh (Ancient Jain Inscriptions of Barmer District) Publisher: Shri Jain Shwetambar Nakoda Parshwanath Tirth Author(s): Not explicitly stated, but likely compiled or overseen by the publisher.

Overall Purpose: This book is a comprehensive catalog and study of ancient Jain inscriptions found in the Barmer district of Rajasthan, India. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the historical presence and influence of Jainism in this region, dating back to antiquity. The publication aims to preserve and disseminate this crucial epigraphic evidence for scholars and enthusiasts of Jain history and archaeology.

Key Themes and Content:

Historical Context of Jainism in Western Rajasthan: The introduction and preface highlight that Western Rajasthan, including areas like Marumandal, was historically a significant center for Jainism. Evidence suggests a strong connection between the Indus Valley Civilization and Jainism, citing symbols like the bull (Rishabhnath's symbol), Swastika, fish, and serpent (associated with Parshvanath) found in Indus Valley sites.
Chronological Progression of Jain Influence: The text traces the influence of Jainism through various historical periods:
- Pre-Mahavira Era: Mentions of Lord Parshvanath's tradition and the establishment of the Oswal community by Acharya Ratnaprabha Suri, indicating Jain influence even before Lord Mahavira.
- Lord Mahavira's Time: Discusses the presence of King Udayan, a disciple of Mahavira, in Sindh Sauvira, and the possibility of Mahavira's travels in the region. It links this to the Mahavira temple in Sanchor and the "Jivit Swami" statues in the Sirohi region.
- Mauryan and Gupta Periods: Highlights the presence of Jainism during the reign of Emperor Samprati, grandson of Chandragupta Maurya, who was a devout Jain. The influence of Malav and Kshudraka tribes, who supported Chandragupta Maurya, is also noted.
- Post-Gupta and Early Medieval Periods: Discusses the influence of kings like Harshavardhana, Bhoj, and the presence of the renowned Jain scholar Maanatung Suri, author of the Bhaktamar Stotra, in the region. The travels of the Chinese traveler Xuanzang and his mention of important Jain centers are also noted.
- Medieval Period: Details the impact of Muslim invasions, the destruction and conversion of temples, and the continuous efforts of the Jain community to preserve their religious heritage. It also highlights the patronage of Jainism by Solanki rulers of Gujarat, particularly Siddha Raja Jayasinh and Kumarapala. The period between Ghori and Ghaznavi is called a "golden age" for the spread of Jain culture.
- Later Medieval and Mughal Periods: Covers the impact of invasions by Alauddin Khilji, the destruction of cities and temples, and subsequent efforts for reconstruction. It also mentions the rise of the Rathore dynasty and their patronage of Jainism.
- Modern Period: Briefly touches upon the impact of British rule and the post-independence revival and restoration of Jain temples.
Specific Inscriptions and Sites: The book meticulously lists and describes numerous inscriptions from various villages and towns within the Barmer district. Each entry typically includes:
- Village/Town Name: The location of the inscription or temple.
- Temple Details: Information about the main deity (Mulnayak), temple architecture, and other statues.
- Inscription Details: The date of the inscription (usually in Vikram Samvat), the deity mentioned, the patrons (individuals, families, or the sangha), the monastic lineage (Gachha) and preceptors, and sometimes the engraver or architect.
- Significance: Explanations of the historical, cultural, or religious importance of the inscription.
Key Figures and Traditions: The text frequently mentions various Jain monastic lineages (Gachhas) like Tapa Gachha, Kharatar Gachha, Anchal Gachha, and others. It also highlights the contributions of prominent Acharyas and monks who played a role in establishing and propagating Jainism in the region. The influence of important Jain families and communities, like the Oswals, is also implicitly or explicitly mentioned.
Artistic and Iconographic Details: While primarily focused on inscriptions, the book occasionally provides details about the artistic style of the sculptures, such as the material (stone, metal), posture (Kayotsarga), and decorative elements, which help in dating and attributing the artifacts.
Glossary of Gachhas and Chronological List of Inscriptions: The book includes appendices that list the various Jain Gachhas mentioned in the inscriptions and provide a chronological index of the inscriptions by Vikram Samvat.

Specific Examples of Mentioned Sites and Inscriptions (as seen in the provided text):

The bulk of the book consists of detailed descriptions of inscriptions from numerous locations across Barmer district, including but not limited to:

Ajit: Inscriptions from 2013 V.S. and 1664 V.S.
Asotra: Inscriptions dating from 1522 V.S. to 2035 V.S.
Kanana: Inscriptions from 1518 V.S. onwards, mentioning kings like Gajsingh.
Karmawas: Inscriptions from 1520 V.S. and 1535 V.S.
Kalyanpura: Inscriptions from 1862 V.S. and 1966 V.S.
Kiradu: A significant inscription from 1206 V.S. related to Jainism, despite no Jain temples currently existing there.
Kotda: Inscriptions dating from 1557 V.S. to 1602 V.S. mentioning the importance of the Oswal community.
Khed: Mention of ancient Jain temples and inscriptions, with a key inscription from 1237 V.S. found in Jasol.
Junabhadmer: Inscriptions dating back to 1352 V.S., with a significant mention of King Samant Singhdeo.
Nakoda Tirth (Mevagarh): Numerous inscriptions, including a very early one from 1060 V.S., and many from the medieval and later periods, detailing the history of the Parshvanath temple and its renovations.
Samadari Junction: Inscriptions from various periods, including those related to the establishment of temples and the worship of Tirthankaras.
Siwana: Mentions of historical significance, though fewer ancient inscriptions are found due to destruction.
Jaisol: Numerous inscriptions, including those from 1243 V.S., 1825 V.S., and later periods.

Significance of the Book:

Epigraphical Treasure: It is a foundational work for the study of Jain epigraphy in a historically significant region.
Historical Documentation: It provides tangible evidence of the deep-rooted presence and continuous practice of Jainism in Barmer district across centuries.
Understanding Jain History: The inscriptions shed light on the evolution of Jain art, architecture, monastic traditions, and the social history of Jain communities like the Oswals.
Preservation of Heritage: The book serves as a crucial effort to document and preserve these invaluable historical records, some of which may be in deteriorating conditions.

In essence, "Badmer Jile ke Prachin Jain Shilalekh" is a scholarly compilation that meticulously records and analyzes the epigraphic heritage of Jainism in Barmer, offering a detailed narrative of its historical journey through the analysis of ancient inscriptions.