Comprehensive History Of Jainism Volume II

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Title: Comprehensive History of Jainism, Volume II Author: Asim Kumar Chatterjee Publisher: Firma KLM Private Limited Period Covered: 1000 A.D. to 1600 A.D.

Overall Scope: This volume continues the historical narrative of Jainism from where Volume I left off (up to 1000 A.D.). It focuses on the period between 1000 A.D. and 1600 A.D., providing an authentic and connected account of the religious sect. Beyond political and social history, the book also delves into the extensive Jain literature and provides a detailed description of Jain Tirthas (sacred places). The author indicates that a third volume on Jain philosophy and art is planned.

Key Content Areas:

1. Jainism in North India (1000-1300 A.D. and 1301-1600 A.D.):

   • Gujarat: Jainism experienced significant popularity during this period, evidenced by numerous inscriptions and literary works. The book details the patronage of Jainism by various Caulukya (Chaulukya) rulers like Durlabharāja, Bhima I, Jayasimha Siddharāja, and Kumārapāla.
     • Jayasingha Siddharāja is highlighted as a devout Śaiva but a sincere friend of Jains, during whose reign Jainism reached its zenith of popularity. The influence of Jain monks like Maladhari Hemacandra and Devasūri is discussed, including their role in philosophical debates.
     • Kumārapāla is portrayed as a significant figure who, though initially a devout Śaiva, gradually embraced Jainism under the influence of Hemacandra, transforming Gujarat into a "model Jain-state." His reforms emphasized Ahimsā (non-violence), leading to prohibitions on harming living creatures, stopping the flesh trade, and abolishing hunting.
     • The text also touches upon the subsequent reign of Ajayapāla, who is depicted in Jain literature as an enemy of Jainism, responsible for the destruction of Jain edifices and the execution of Jain saints like Rāmacandra.
     • The patronage of Jainism by later rulers like Bhima II is also detailed, noting his relative tolerance compared to his father Ajayapāla, and the significant role of Jain ministers like Vastupāla and Tejahpāla. Their extensive temple-building activities, donations, and patronage of Jain literature are highlighted.
     • The period also saw the rise of influential Jain merchants and patrons like Jagadu.
   • Rajasthan: Jainism remained popular, particularly among the merchant community. The book discusses the influence of Jainism under the Cāhamāna dynasty (Sākambhari and Nāḍol branches).
     • Rulers like Prithvirāja I, Ajayarāja, Arņorāja, Vigraharāja IV, Pṛthvīrāja II, Someśvara, and Pṛthvīrāja III are discussed in relation to their patronage or interaction with Jainism. The text notes the popularity of Jainism in cities like Ajayameru (Ajmer).
     • The Cāhamānas of Nāḍol, specifically rulers like Āsarāja and Rāyapāla, are noted for their support of Jain religious affairs. The family of Ālhadeva is highlighted for its respect towards Jainism and the principle of Ahimsā.
     • The Cāhamānas of Jalor and the Paramāras of Candravati and Banswara are also mentioned for their contributions to Jainism.
   • Madhya Pradesh: While Jainism was less popular here than in Gujarat and Rajasthan, the text notes its presence among the Vaiśyas. Dynasties like the Candellas, Paramāras, and Kalacuris are discussed.
     • Under the Candellas, Jainism was popular before 1000 A.D., with inscriptions indicating patronage from rulers like Kīrtivarman and Madanavarman. The Vaishya Grahapati family is noted for promoting Digambara Jainism. However, Jainism reportedly vanished from this region after 1300 A.D.
     • The Paramāras, while staunch supporters of Brahmanism, showed some cultural tolerance. Bhoja is highlighted for his patronage of Jain writers like Dhanapāla and his adoption of the practice of Ahimsā.
     • The Kalacuris saw less Jain influence, with Śaivism being the state religion. Only one Kalacuri Jain epigraph from Bahuriband is mentioned.
   • Maharashtra: Jainism was popular in the Kolhapur region, with rulers like Gandarāditya and Vijayāditya being patrons of Jainism. The text notes the influence of Digambara monks and the existence of Jain tirthas like Kolhapur.
   • Other parts of Northern India: Jainism was declining in most other areas. However, Deogarh and Mathura are noted as important centers with significant Jain establishments from earlier times.

2. Jainism in South India (1000-1300 A.D. and 1300-1600 A.D.):

   • Tamil Nadu and Kerala: Jainism's popularity was on the decline, with fewer epigraphs known for the 1000-1300 A.D. period. Mentions of Jain teachers and grants to Jain temples are noted from the Cola and Cera dynasties.
   • Andhra Pradesh: Jainism's popularity was declining, but epigraphs indicate its continued existence. The influence of Brahmanism and Śaivism grew, and Jainism eventually "breathed its last" in Andhra Pradesh, largely due to the hostility of militant Śaiva leaders.
   • Karnataka: This region was a stronghold of Jainism, particularly the Digambara sect. The period saw numerous Jain epigraphs from various districts like Gulbarga, Raichur, Bijapur, Belgaum, Dharwar, Chitradurga, and Shimoga.
     • The Western Cālukyas (Vikramaditya VI, Someśvara I, II, III) and Hoysalas (Vishṇuvardhana, Narasimha I, Ballāla II) are highlighted for their significant patronage of Jainism, with rulers, queens, and ministers actively supporting Jain monks, temples, and literature.
     • The text details the extensive temple construction and renovation activities by figures like Vastupāla and Tejahpāla (though primarily in Gujarat, their influence and the broader context of Jain patronage are relevant).
     • The Yadava kings are also mentioned in connection with Jainism.
     • A significant trend noted is the increasing hostility of Śaiva leaders towards Jains in the latter half of the 12th century, with epigraphs describing Śaiva feudatories as persecutors of Jains and their scriptures.
     • Despite this opposition, Jainism persisted, with temples continuing to be built and repaired throughout the 13th century.
     • The Vijayanagara Empire is noted for its continued, albeit sometimes religiously mixed, patronage. Emperors like Harihara II and Devarāya II are mentioned for their support of Jainism, including the construction of temples and grants.
     • The work highlights the influence of prominent Digambara monks like Kundakunda, Vidyānanda, Simhakirti, Visalakairti, Devendrakirti, Nemicandra, and Subhacandra.

3. Śvetāmbara Literature (1000-1600 A.D.):

   • This section details the significant contributions of Svetāmbara writers, emphasizing the dated nature of Jain works which aids historical analysis.
   • Key writers and works covered include:
     • Jineśvara I: Known for the Lilāvatī-kathā and the celebrated Kathākośa.
     • Maheśvara: Author of the Jñānapañcamikathā.
     • Dhanesvara: Author of the Surasundaricariya.
     • Gunacandragani: Known for Samvegaraňgaśālā, Pārśvanāthacarita, Mahāvīracarita, and Kathāratnakośa.
     • Nemicandrasūri: Author of Ākhyānamalikośa (AMK), Ratnacūḍarājacarita, and Mahāvīracarita. His works are noted for their stories, influence on contemporary life, and geographical information.
     • Hemacandra: Described as the greatest Jain savant of the 12th century, his contributions in grammar (Siddha-Hema), lexicography (Abhidhānacintāmaņi, Anekārthasangraha, Nighaṇṭuśesha), philosophy (Yogaśāstra), rhetoric (Kāvyānušāsana), and history (Dvyaśrāyakāvya) are thoroughly discussed. His influence on rulers like Jayasimha Siddharāja and Kumārapāla is emphasized.
     • Rāmacandra: A direct disciple of Hemacandra, known for his plays like Satya-Hariscandra, Nalavilāsa, and his work on dramaturgy, Nāṭyadarpaņa.
     • Devacandra: Known for the play Candralekhāvijayaprakarana.
     • Vardhamānagaņi: Author of Kumāravihārapraśasti.
     • Yaśaḥpāla: Author of the allegorical play Mahārājaparājaya.
     • Vijayapāla: Author of Draupadisyayamvara.
     • Yaśascandra: Author of Mudritakumudacandra.
     • Rāmabhadra: Author of Prabuddha-Rauhiņeya.
     • Meghaprabhācārya: Author of Dharmābhyudaya.
     • Somaprabhācārya: Author of Kumārapālapratibodha.
     • Jayasiṁha (14th cent.): Author of Kumārabhūpālacarita.
     • Somatilakasūri: Author of Kumārapālapratibodhacaritā.
     • Cāritrasundaragani: Author of Kumārapālacarita.
     • Jinamandana: Author of Kumārapālaprabandha.
     • Arisiṁha: Author of Sukstasankirtana.
     • Amaracandra: Author of Bālabhārata and Padmānandakāvya.
     • Somasundara: A dominant monk of the 15th century, involved in temple repairs and building, patronized by merchants and even Muslim rulers.
     • Munisundara: A disciple of Somasundara, also an author and promoter of Jainism.
     • Hiravijaya: Considered one of the greatest Jain monks after Hemacandra, known for his contact with Emperor Akbar and influencing his policies towards non-violence and religious tolerance.
     • Thakkuru Pheru: A contemporary official of Delhi Sultanate, known for works on numismatics, metals, and astronomy.
     • Jinaprabha: Author of the Vividhatirthakalpa, a significant work for Jain geography and history, and noted for his interactions with Muhammad Bin Tughluq.
     • Kharatara Acaryas: Jinacandra III, Jinakusala, and Jinapadma are highlighted for their extensive activities across North India, including securing farmans from Muslim rulers.

4. Digambara Literature (1000-1600 A.D.):

   • This section focuses on the Digambara literary output, noting the prevalence of Sanskrit works and some in Kanarese.
   • Key figures and works include:
     • Prabhācandra: Author of Kathākośa, noted for its historical and social insights, and commentaries.
     • Rāmacandra Mumukshu: Author of Punyašrava Kathākośa.
     • Brahma Nemidatta: Author of Arādhana-Kathākosa.
     • Vaddārādhane: A collection of stories in Kannada.
     • Vādirāja: A prominent poet and scholar, known for Pārśvanāthacarita and Yasodharacarita. His work on logic, Nyāyaviniscayavivarana, is also highlighted.
     • Viranandin: Author of Candraprabhacarita.
     • Mallisheņa: Author of Mahāpurāņa and Nagakumārakāvya.
     • Āsādhara: A prolific householder writer known for Jinayajñakalpa, Sāgaradharmāmsta, and Anāgāradharmāmsta.
     • Arhaddāsa: Author of Munisuvatacarita and Purudevacampū.
     • Gunabhadra: Author of Dhanyakumāracarita.
     • Kanakāmara Muni: Author of Karakandacariyu in Apabhraṁśa.
     • Hastimalla: A noted Digambara dramatist, known for plays like Añjana-Pavanañjaya and Subhadraharaṇa.
     • Brahmasūri: Author of Jyotiṣaprabhārāțaka.
     • Mādhavacandra Traiyidyadeva: Author of a commentary on Kshaponāsāra.
     • Somadeva: Author of a commentary on Śabdārņava.
     • Karpajāya: Author of Neminātha Purāņa.
     • Cāmanandin: Author of Caturviṁšatitirthankara Purāņa.
     • Raidhu: A significant Apabhraṁśa poet, known for Balabhadracarita and Yasodharacarita.
     • Śrutasāgara: A prominent Digambara writer of the mediaeval period, known for his commentaries and epithets signifying great learning.
     • Subhacandra: Author of the Pāņdava purāņa and other works, known for his linguistic and poetic skills.
     • Vādicandra: Author of Pārśvapurāņa and the play Jñānasūryodaya.

5. Jain Tirthas:

   • This chapter provides an alphabetical listing and description of numerous Jain sacred places across India, drawing from both literary and epigraphic sources.
   • Key Tirthas discussed include: Ahicchatra, Ajayameru, Ambika, Ayodhya, Baligrama, Bandhavapura, Bhaḍreśvara, Bhinmäl, Bhṛgukaccha, Bodhan, Cāmpā, Candravati, Citrakūța, Deogarh, Devagiri, Dhārā, Dhārāśiva, Gerasoppe, Girnar, Gopācala, Guņabhadra, Hastinapura, Humcha, Hūli, Jāvālipura, Jaisalmer, Junagarh, Kalbhavi, Kalhoļi, Kanyakubja, Kārakala, Käsahrada, Khajuraho, Khānagavaca, Khedangara, Kolhapur, Kondakunda, Kopana, Kotițirtha, Kuppațūru, Lakshmeśvara, Maleyūra, Māņikyatirtha, Mathura, Meerut, Mithila, Modhera, Muchamukshu, Mudabidri, Mulgund, Nādōl, Nagapura, Nāgahrada, Nāgasamudra, Nalikacchapura, Nānā, Nāndiyā, Nāsikya, Nitoḍā, Oḍalavādi, Osia, Pāṇḍavapurāṇa, Pāli, Pālitaņā, Paithan, Pampā, Panna, Pārsvanātha, Pāšaliputra, Pattana, Pāvā, Pāvāgiri, Pävāpuri, Penugonda, Phalavardhikā, Pindavāra, Ponnugunda, Prahlâdanapura, Pratishthāna, Prayāga, Puṇisajinalaya, Pundravardhana, Pūri, Purikara, Rādavara, Rājagṛha, Rājādnirāja, Rājapala, Rajyapura, Ramagiri, Ramakonda, Ranamgala, Rapaçapurā, Ratnapuri, Rohitaka, Sāgapura, Säketa, Sālakabra, Samanta, Sambhavanatha, Sammeta, Sangamarápura, Sangur, Sankara 1, Sankara Basadi, Sankara Jinālaya, Sankheśvara, Santinatha, Sāranagadeva, Sarasvati, Satyapura, Savaneru, Saviyā, Sayyambhava, Sedam, Seram, Sewaḍi, Shimoga, Sholapur, Śihohi, Śilāhāra, Śīlavijaya, Simha, Simhapurā, Simaņdharasvāmin, Sindigere, Sindhudeśa, Sirpur, Śitalanātha, Śiva, Somāsa, Somanātha, Somaprabha, Somasekhara, Someśvara, Sorab, Śpala, Śrīpāla, Śrīprasasti Sangraha, ŚrīprasastiSangraha, Śr!puruşa, Śrutamuni, Sricasandra, Śrīdhara, Śrīvijaya, Süryapura, Śrutasāgara, Subhadra, Subhacandra, Sukumar, Sumati, Surasundari, Surasena, Tālaka, Talavala, Tamalitti, Tanagada, Tapā gaccha, Tārakapura, Tārangā, Tattekere, Tāvanandi, Teranagara, Terdal, Thara, Thårāpadra, Thārapadriya, Thārapadriya Prasada, Tharada, Thāri, Tirthamala, Tirthavandanasangraha, Tittavadi, Todarasingh, Traivigya, Tribhuvanabhuvana, Tribhuvanatilaka, Tribhuvanatilaka Jinālaya, Trikūța Jinālaya, Trinyapura, Tughluqabad, Uccandavālamalai, Uccañgari, Ucchangi, Udaiapala, Udayacandra, Udayadeva, Udayaprabha, Udayaratna, Uḍri, Uma pati, Umāsvāti, Unnatapura, Upadesa padatika, Upadesatarangini, Upakesa gaccha, Ujjayini, Ujjila, Ujjiyāna, Ulavi, Umāpativāra, Unnataśila, Upariyala, Urjayanta, Urtikā, Uttarädhya yanakos a, Uttarapurana. This comprehensive volume offers a deep dive into the history, literature, and sacred geography of Jainism during a crucial period of its development and propagation in India.

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Key Themes and Findings:

• Geographical Spread and Popularity: The book details the ebb and flow of Jainism's popularity across different regions of North and South India, highlighting Gujarat and Rajasthan as continued strongholds, while noting its decline in other areas, particularly Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Karnataka is identified as a significant region for Jainism, especially the Digambara sect.
• Royal Patronage: The text extensively documents instances of royal patronage from various dynasties, including the Caulukyas (Gujarat), Cāhamānas (Rajasthan), Paramāras (Malwa), Silāhāras (Maharashtra), Kalacuris, Eastern Cālukyas, Western Cālukyas, Yadavas, Hoysalas, and Vijayanagara Empire. This patronage played a crucial role in the construction of temples, support for Jain monks, and the flourishing of Jain literature.
• Jain Literature: Volume II dedicates a significant portion to the extensive literature produced by Svetāmbara and Digambara writers. It highlights key figures like Hemacandra (Svetāmbara), whose grammatical, lexicographical, philosophical, and historical works are detailed, and Āsādhara, Vādirāja, and Subhacandra (Digambara), noted for their contributions to poetry, philosophy, and dramas. The analysis includes discussions on the style, content, and historical context of these works.
• Jain Tirthas: Chapter VII is a monumental compilation of Jain sacred places across India, presented alphabetically. It draws from both literary and epigraphic sources, providing historical details, associated Tirthankaras, and the significance of these pilgrimage sites. This section is exceptionally detailed, illustrating the widespread presence of Jainism.
• Inter-religious Relations and Conflicts: The text touches upon the interactions between Jainism and other religions, including the hostility from Śaivas and Brahmins, and the impact of Muslim invasions and rule. It notes instances of Jain monks securing farmans from Muslim rulers and engaging in philosophical debates with other religious groups.
• Social and Economic Life: The literary works often provide insights into the contemporary social customs, economic activities (like overseas trade), and daily life of the period, offering valuable historical context.
• Sects within Jainism: The book differentiates between the activities and literature of the Svetāmbara and Digambara sects, noting their distinct geographical strongholds and literary traditions.

Overall Contribution: "Comprehensive History of Jainism, Volume II" by Asim Kumar Chatterjee is presented as a scholarly work that meticulously reconstructs the history of Jainism between 1000 and 1600 A.D. It relies heavily on epigraphic and literary sources to provide a detailed account of the religion's development, patronage, and cultural contributions across various regions of India. The inclusion of an extensive bibliography and detailed chapter references underscores the author's thorough research.This volume, "Comprehensive History of Jainism, Volume II," by Asim Kumar Chatterjee, published by Firma KLM Private Limited, covers the period from 1000 A.D. to 1600 A.D. It aims to provide an authentic and connected history of Jainism in India, including a significant focus on its extensive literature and its sacred places (Tirthas).

Key Themes and Content:

1. Geographical Coverage: The book systematically explores the presence and development of Jainism across various regions of India during the specified period:

   • North India: This includes detailed accounts of Jainism's status in Gujarat and Rajasthan, which are highlighted as continuing strongholds. It also covers Madhya Pradesh (discussing the influence of Candellas, Paramāras, and Kalacuris), Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh (mentioning Deogarh and Mathura), and other northern areas, noting the general decline of Jainism outside Gujarat and Rajasthan, especially under Muslim rule.
   • South India: The volume details the history of Jainism in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. Karnataka is particularly emphasized as a region where Jainism, especially the Digambara sect, persisted more strongly, with numerous epigraphs and literary works documenting its presence. The influence of various dynasties like the Western Cālukyas, Hoysalas, and Vijayanagara Empire on Jainism in South India is discussed.

2. Jain Literature: A substantial portion of the book is dedicated to the literary output of both the Svetāmbara and Digambara traditions.

   • Svetāmbara Literature: The volume highlights the significant contributions of scholars like Jineśvara I, Maheśvara, Dhanesvara Sūri, Gunacandra Gani, Nemicandrasūri, and the monumental works of Hemacandra (grammar, lexicography, poetry, history). It also discusses later influential figures and works related to Kumārapāla, Vastupāla, Tejahpāla, and the Kharatara and Tapā gacchas, as well as the important historical Prabandhas and the Vividhatīrthakalpa.
   • Digambara Literature: The book covers significant Digambara writers and their works, including Prabhācandra (Kathakośa), Vādirāja (Pārśvanāthacarita, Yasodharacarita), Viranandin (Candraprabhacarita), Mallisheņa (Mahāpurāņa), Āsādhara (Dharmāmsta, etc.), Raidhu, and Subhacandra (Pāṇḍavapurāṇa). The analysis includes the philosophical, literary, and historical aspects of these writings.

3. Jain Tirthas: A dedicated chapter provides an alphabetical listing and description of numerous Jain sacred places across India. This section draws heavily on both literary references and epigraphic evidence to detail the history, presiding deities, and significance of these pilgrimage sites, demonstrating the widespread presence and enduring legacy of Jainism.

4. Royal Patronage and Political Context: The book examines the role of royal dynasties in patronizing Jainism, highlighting specific kings and ministers who supported Jain monks, temple construction, and literature. It also addresses the challenges faced by Jainism, particularly the impact of Muslim invasions and rule in North India, and the growing influence of Śaivism in South India, which sometimes led to the decline of Jainism.

5. Social and Economic Insights: The literary works discussed often provide valuable information about the social customs, economic activities (like overseas trade), and daily life of the period, offering a broader historical perspective.

Key Figures and Periods:

• Gujarat: The era of the Caulukya (Chaulukya) rulers, especially Jayasimha Siddharāja and Kumārapāla, is presented as a golden age for Jainism in Gujarat, with significant support from ministers like Vastupāla and Tejahpāla.
• Rajasthan: Jainism continued to be popular, with notable rulers and merchants contributing to its spread and sustenance. The influence of the Kharatara gaccha is highlighted.
• South India: Karnataka emerges as a major center, with strong support from the Western Cālukyas, Hoysalas, and the Vijayanagara Empire. The text details extensive epigraphic evidence from this region.
• Notable Monks and Scholars: The volume extensively discusses the lives and works of influential Jain monks and scholars who shaped the literature and religious landscape of Jainism during this period, including Hemacandra, Prabhācandra, Vādirāja, Āsādhara, Jinaprabha, Somasundara, and Hiravijaya.

In essence, Volume II of "Comprehensive History of Jainism" offers a detailed and scholarly examination of Jainism's trajectory from 1000 to 1600 A.D., emphasizing its literary achievements, geographical distribution, royal patronage, and the historical context in which it evolved.