Bharat Ke Prachin Jain Tirth

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bharat ke Prachin Jain Tirth" (Ancient Jain Tirths of India) by Dr. Jagdishchandra Jain:

Overview:

"Bharat ke Prachin Jain Tirth" is a scholarly work that delves into the ancient Jain pilgrimage sites across India. The book, published by Jain Sanskriti Sanshodhan Mandal in 1952, aims to identify and describe these sacred locations, many of which are no longer widely recognized or easily identifiable in modern geography. The author, Dr. Jagdishchandra Jain, draws extensively from Jain Agamas, Pali texts, and historical inscriptions to reconstruct the ancient geography and the spread of Jainism. The book is not only a valuable resource for Jains but also for scholars of ancient Indian history and geography.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Reconstructing Ancient Geography:

   • The book highlights the challenges of identifying ancient sites due to the lack of systematic geographical study in ancient times, often leading to mythological or imaginative descriptions in scriptures.
   • Dr. Jain attempts to map ancient locations onto modern geographical maps, resolving historical puzzles and providing new insights into ancient India's historical geography.
   • Examples include identifying the river Sita mentioned in Jain texts with the Chinese Si-to river and the concept of Jambudvipa referring to India.

2. Jainism's Historical Roots and Development:

   • The text asserts that Jainism existed before Lord Mahavir, referencing the teachings of Parshvanath.
   • It discusses the evolution of the Jain Sangha, including the coexistence of both clothed (Svetambara) and unclothed (Digambara) monks in Mahavir's time, with Mahavir himself adhering to the unclothed tradition.
   • The text explores the differences and historical interactions between the Digambara and Svetambara traditions, particularly concerning the depiction of Tirthankara images and the reasons behind the visual distinctions. It notes that before a certain period, there was no visual difference in images, and both sects worshipped together.

3. The Travels and Teachings of Tirthankaras:

   • Lord Parshvanath: The book details Parshvanath's life, his birthplace (Varanasi), and his extensive travels and places of retreat across various regions of ancient India. It also mentions his disciples and their influence.
   • Lord Mahavir: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to tracing Lord Mahavir's rigorous 12-year journey (Viharacharya) across different parts of India. It meticulously lists the towns, villages, forests, and rivers he visited, including the hardships he faced, the ascetics he encountered (like Gosala Mankhaliputra), and the regions where he spent his Chaturmas (monsoon retreats). The book includes maps illustrating Mahavir's travels.

4. Spread of Jainism and Jain Sangha:

   • The text describes the initial limited geographical scope of Jain monks' travels and how, with the patronage of King Samprati (grandson of Chandragupta Maurya and son of Ashoka), Jainism spread much farther.
   • King Samprati's role in promoting Jainism across regions like Andhra, Dravid, Maharashtra, and Kurg is highlighted, emphasizing his efforts to support Jain monks and spread their teachings.
   • The book lists the "twenty-five and a half Aryadeshas" that became centers of Jain activity, providing details about their capitals, prominent towns, and the lineages of Jain monks and their schools.

5. Detailed Description of Ancient Tirths by Region: The book is systematically organized by geographical regions, detailing the Jain significance of various ancient cities and sites:

   • Bihar-Nepal-Odisha-Bengal-Burma: Discusses ancient Magadha, Rajgir, Pataliputra, Nalanda, Pawapuri, Champapur, Mithila, Vaishali, and their importance in Jain history and the lives of Tirthankaras and scholars. It also touches upon Nepal and ancient Burma (Suvarnabhumi) in relation to Jain missionary activities.
   • Uttar Pradesh: Covers prominent ancient cities like Kashi (Varanasi), Sarnath, Sravasti, Ayodhya, Kaushambi, Kampilya, Ahichhatra, Mathura, and Hastinapur, highlighting their association with Tirthankaras, Jain saints, and key events in Jain history.
   • Punjab-Sindh: Mentions Gandhara, Taxila, and the historical context of Jainism's limited spread in these regions due to dietary and social practices.
   • Kathiawar-Gujarat-Rajasthan-Malwa-Bundelkhand: Details the significant Jain sites in these regions, including Girnar (Raivataka), Dwarka, Somnath (Prabhas), Palitana (Shatrunjaya), Valabhi, Abu, Ujjain, Vidisha, and numerous other important pilgrimage centers. The patronage of kings like Samprati and Kumarapala is noted.
   • South India (Berar-Hyderabad-Maharashtra-Konkan-Andhra-Dravid-Karnatak-Coorg etc.): Explores the spread of Jainism into the Deccan and South India, mentioning important centers like Ajanta, Ellora, Paithan, Shravanabelgola, Mudbidri, and their historical and religious significance. It highlights the emergence of prominent Jain Acharyas and Sanghas in these southern regions.

6. Sectarian Developments and Art History:

   • The book touches upon the development of Jain art, referencing early Yaksha worship and the subsequent creation of images of Tirthankaras.
   • It discusses the historical context of disputes between Digambara and Svetambara sects regarding temple ownership and image creation, noting that initially, there was no marked distinction.

Conclusion:

"Bharat ke Prachin Jain Tirth" is a foundational work for understanding the geographical and historical footprint of Jainism in ancient India. Dr. Jagdishchandra Jain's meticulous research and compilation of information from various sources provide a comprehensive account of the ancient pilgrimage sites, contributing significantly to the study of Jain heritage and early Indian history. The book serves as a vital bridge connecting textual knowledge with the material evidence of Jainism's long and rich past.