Jain Dharm Ka Udgam Kshetra Magadh - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Jain Dharm ka Udgam Kshetra Magadh," by Prof. Krushnadatta Vajpai:

The text discusses Magadha (modern-day Bihar) as the land of origin for Jainism, challenging the prevalent view that often overlooked this region in ancient Indian history. While Vedic Aryans prioritized the Panchananda country and Madhyadesha, the text highlights that Magadha developed its own independent traditions prior to the full arrival of Vedic thought.

Key points from the text:

Early Neglect and Independent Traditions: In the proto-historic period, Magadha was often disregarded by Vedic Aryans who favored northwestern India and Madhyadesha. Magadha, situated east of Kashi and Anga, had developed its own local, independent traditions. This region was considered culturally more advanced than areas like Amarkantak and Bastar in Madhya Pradesh. This intellectual independence led to the development of many ideas contrary to the Vedic tradition. Later Vedic literature referred to Magadha's inhabitants with terms like "Kikata" and "Vratya."
Jarasandha and Early Political Dissent: The text mentions Jarasandha as a prominent proto-historic ruler of Magadha, whose detailed accounts are found in the Mahabharata and some Puranas. Jarasandha's ideology differed from that of kings following Aryan culture. This spirit of political dissent, originating with Jarasandha, continued into the historical period.
Economic and Political Flourishing: After the 7th century BCE, Magadha experienced significant economic and political growth. Increased business and trade led to the prosperity of many Magadhan cities, which in turn impacted administration and cultural spheres. Powerful republican governments were established by groups like the Shakyas, Lichchhavis, and Mallas. This era followed influential independent thinkers like Janaka, Yājñavalkya, and Maitreyi, whose traditions continued to influence the Magadha region.
The Era of Independent Thinkers: The 6th century BCE witnessed the emergence of Lord Mahavira and Gautama Buddha, whose primary area of activity was Magadha. Besides these two prominent figures, other significant independent thinkers of the period included Purana Kashyapa, Ajita Kesakambali, Pakudha Katyayana, Alara Kalama, Rudra Ramaputra, and Makkhali Gosala. Each of these individuals established their own distinct philosophical viewpoints based on their intellect and knowledge. Makkhali Gosala is identified as the founder of the Ājīvika sect. Gaya and its surrounding areas became a major center for independent logical thought. It was in this region that Siddhartha attained enlightenment and later, as Gautama Buddha, initiated a new religion.
Magadha as a Center for Jainism: The text emphasizes that the birthplaces, places of enlightenment, and places of nirvana for many Jain Tirthankaras before Lord Mahavira were located in the Magadha region. The abundance of viharas (monasteries) in this area is cited as the reason why the region came to be known as "Bihar." Beyond the Buddhists, Jain sangharamas (monasteries) were also established in Rajagriha, Pataliputra, Gaya, and many other places. Lord Mahavira delivered his discourses in the prevalent local language of Magadha, which was Magadhi. This language gradually became the court language of much of India, and Emperor Ashoka inscribed his royal edicts in it. Magadhi continued to be used in inscriptions for a long period.
Kautilya and the Influence of Magadhan Thinkers: Kautilya's Arthashastra indicates that seventeen major scholars preceded him, each establishing independent views on subjects like dharma and diplomacy. The text suggests that most of these scholars were from Magadha. The Jain tradition propagated Mahavira Swami's message in its pure form.
Gupta Period and Cultural Shifts: During the Gupta period, the capital was primarily located in Pataliputra, Magadha. The Gupta rulers shifted the official language from Prakrit to Sanskrit. Jain scholars and other writers adapted to this change by composing their works in Sanskrit. The Brahmi script also rose to prominence as the primary script of the land.
Contribution of Jain Merchants: Prosperous Jain merchants from Magadha played a significant role in the expansion of Jainism. Many of these merchants traveled to Southeast Asian countries via the Bay of Bengal for trade. They invested the wealth acquired from abroad in the spread of Jainism across different parts of the country. These Jain traders had a nationalist perspective, considering the political, economic, and cultural progress of the nation as an extension of their own religion.

In essence, the text argues that Magadha was not merely a backdrop but a fertile ground for the genesis and early propagation of Jainism, influencing not only religious thought but also linguistic and cultural developments in ancient India.