Indian Antiquary Vol 19

This document is an excerpt from Volume XIX of the Indian Antiquary, published in 1890, edited by John Faithfull Fleet and Richard Carnac Temple. The excerpt contains several scholarly articles related to Indian history, archaeology, epigraphy, and linguistics.

Here's a summary of the key Jain-related content and other significant entries:

Jain-Related Content:

• "SACRED LITERATURE OF THE JAINS" by Prof. E. Weber, Berlin, translated by Dr. H. W. Smyth, Pennsylvania (Pages 62-69, 295-314): This is a substantial section dedicated to the Jain sacred literature, specifically focusing on the Pancham Angam, the Viyaha or Vivaha (or Pannatti), also known as Bhagavati. The article meticulously details the structure of this Angam, its various subdivisions (sayas and uddesagas), and the extensive nature of its contents. It discusses the legendary aspects and the potential historical dating of certain sections, suggesting a gradual expansion of the text. The author notes the presence of conventional lists of foreign peoples in the text, which are significant for dating the period of its composition, particularly mentioning peoples relevant to the Gupta period (2nd-4th century AD). It also touches upon the linguistic analysis of certain terms and the potential connections to other ancient languages. The article provides detailed tables of contents for the various parts of the Angam and discusses the progression of Jain literature, including the introduction of the Jain Pattavali tradition.

Other Significant Articles Relevant to Indian History and Epigraphy:

• "THE EPOCH OF THE LAKSHMANASENA ERA" by Prof. F. Kielhorn, C.I.E., Göttingen (Pages 7-13): This article delves into the complex question of determining the starting point (epoch) of the Lakshmanasena era. It discusses various historical accounts, including those from Abu-l-Fazl, and analyzes several dated manuscripts to arrive at a conclusion. The author meticulously calculates European equivalents for various Lakshmanasena years based on different epoch assumptions, ultimately favoring an epoch around Saka 1041 (A.D. 1119-20) as suggested by Abu-l-Fazl.
• "SANSKRIT AND OLD-KANARESE INSCRIPTIONS" by J. F. Fleet, Bo.C.S., M.R.A.S., C.I.E. (Multiple entries): This is a major contribution by one of the editors, featuring a series of edited inscriptions.
  • No. 185. MAHALKUTA PILLAR INSCRIPTION OF MANGALESA (Pages 13-25): This detailed article discusses an inscription from the Early Chalukya king Mangalesa. It includes a description of the pillar, the epigraphy, orthography, and linguistic aspects. It also analyzes the date of the inscription, relating it to Mangalesa's reign and the Siddhartha samvatsara, and discusses his genealogy and conquests, including his encounter with king Buddha, likely a Kalachuri ruler.
  • "EXAMINATION OF QUESTIONS CONNECTED WITH THE VIKRAMA ERA" by Prof. F. Kielhorn, C.I.E., Göttingen (Pages 20-38, 166-205): This is a comprehensive study of various aspects of the Vikrama era. The author meticulously lists and analyzes numerous Vikrama dates from inscriptions and manuscripts, discussing their calculation, European equivalents, and potential inconsistencies. It covers different aspects like current vs. expired years, northern vs. southern reckonings, the purṇimānta vs. amânta schemes of lunar fortnights, and the accuracy of dating based on tithis and nakshatras.
  • "THE INSCRIPTIONS OF PIYADASI" by E. Senart, translated by G. A. Grierson (Pages 40-41, 82-101): This section focuses on the edicts of Piyadasi (Ashoka), specifically the detached rock edicts found at Dhauli and Jaugada. It provides the text and translation of the first and second edicts, along with extensive notes by E. Senart and Professor Bühler, offering corrections and interpretations of the Prakrit text. The article discusses the palæography, linguistic nuances, and historical context of these important inscriptions.
  • "SOME GOLD COINS OF THE EASTERN CHALUKYA KINGS SAKTIVARMAN AND RAJARAJA II." by J. F. Fleet (Pages 79-82, 205): This article analyzes rare gold coins attributed to the Eastern Chalukya rulers Saktivarman (also known as Chalukya-Chandra) and Rajaraja II. It discusses the historical context, Sir Walter Elliot's theories, and the paleographical evidence for dating these coins, suggesting they belong to a later period than previously thought. It also includes a tradition about the origin of these coins found in Arakan and Siam.
  • "KANASWA STONE INSCRIPTION OF SIVAGANA; THE MALAVA YEAR 795 EXPIRED" by Prof. F. Kielhorn (Pages 55-61, 161-166): This article presents an edited inscription from Kanaswa. It details the paleography, language, and historical information contained within it, focusing on the date expressed in the Malava year 795. The author also discusses the term "gana-sthiti" in other Malava era inscriptions.
  • "THE DELHI SIWALIK PILLAR INSCRIPTIONS OF VISALADEVA; THE VIKRAMA YEAR 1220" by Prof. F. Kielhorn (Pages 215-228): This article provides an edition of inscriptions found on the Firoz Shah's Lât in Delhi, attributed to King Visaladeva of Sakambhari. It discusses the history of the pillar, the paleography and language of the inscriptions, and the dating of the record to the Vikrama year 1220. The author meticulously analyzes the readings and offers interpretations, correcting previous scholars. It also highlights the use of the term "suti" for lunar phases in these inscriptions and the potential connection to Kashmiri practices.

Folklore and Cultural Aspects:

• "FOLKLORE IN SOUTHERN INDIA" by Pandit Natesa Sastri (Pages 81-84, 127-154): This section presents variations of a "Wonderful Tree" story, including examinations of several maxims related to prudent conduct and testing relationships. It also includes notes on the Kuttichatris (elves) in Madras and their mischievous nature.
• "FOLKLORE IN WESTERN INDIA" by Putlibai D. H. Wadia (Pages 153-173): This section contains the beginning of a "Wonderful Tree" narrative, detailing a Raja's dream and the quests of his grandsons and cousin to find such a tree. It highlights themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the magical transformation of fairies into the tree.
• "OMENS" by Sayyid Khairayat Ahmad (Pages 130-131): This brief note discusses various omens observed in Bihar, including the significance of eyelid twitches, shoe placement, crow cawing, and the sighting of unlucky creatures.
• "CHARMS AND SPELLS IN THE NORTH-WEST PROVINCES" and "CHARMS AND SPELLS IN MADRAS" by William Crooke and S. M. Natesa Sastri (Page 103): These short notes touch upon folk beliefs related to rain (throwing oil into water) and the use of specific rituals to counteract the influence of mischievous spirits (kuttichatris).

In essence, Volume XIX of the Indian Antiquary, as represented by this excerpt, is a rich repository of scholarly work on ancient Indian history, language, and culture, with a particular focus on epigraphy, the dating of historical periods, and the diverse traditions and beliefs found across India. The inclusion of detailed analyses of inscriptions, coins, and the study of Jain sacred texts showcases the journal's commitment to comprehensive Oriental research.