Jainism In Bihar

Here's a comprehensive summary of P. C. Roy Choudhury's "Jainism in Bihar," based on the provided text:

Overall Focus:

"Jainism in Bihar" by P. C. Roy Choudhury is an exhaustive exploration of the historical presence, architectural remnants, and religious significance of Jainism in the Indian state of Bihar. Published in 1956, the book aims to shed light on the often-neglected Jain heritage within Bihar, a region deeply intertwined with the origins and spread of the faith.

Key Themes and Findings:

1. Bihar's Centrality to Jainism: The book strongly emphasizes Bihar's foundational role in Jainism. It highlights that Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankar, was born in Kundalpur (identified with Kundalpur near Nalanda in Patna district) and achieved Nirvana at Pawapuri (Patna district). The state served as the birthplace for three Tirthankaras and the site of Nirvana for twenty, making it naturally the most sacred place for Jains in India.

2. Mahavira's Life and Teachings: Chapter II provides an overview of Jain religious tenets, emphasizing the core beliefs of karma, transmigration, and the pursuit of liberation (Kaivalya). It discusses the Jain emphasis on ahimsa (non-violence) to an extreme degree and touches upon Mahavira's stance on caste, highlighting his reformist approach that, while acknowledging existing structures, opened doors for all based on merit. The text also outlines the fundamental differences between the two major Jain sects, Swetambaras and Digambaras.

3. Architectural Heritage: Chapter III delves into Jain architecture, noting its similarity to Buddhist and Hindu styles of the era, but also pointing out unique Jain features like "temple-cities" on mountaintops and the "Chaumukh" (four-faced) temples. The book details various Jain architectural elements found in Bihar, including stupas, manastambhas, and cave temples.

4. Major Jain Sites in Bihar:

   • Parasnath Hill (Hazaribagh district): Acknowledged as the most sacred spot for Jains, it's the site of Nirvana for twenty Tirthankaras. The book details the accessibility, historical significance, and the temples found there, including descriptions from historical accounts like Dr. Hooker and Captain C. B. Young. It also touches on historical disputes between Jain sects and local populations regarding the hill.
   • Kuluha Hill (Hazaribagh district): Identified as the birthplace of Tirthankar Shitalanath, this site is discussed with reference to early explorers like Nandlal De and Dr. M. A. Stein, who corrected the notion that its antiquities were exclusively Buddhist. The book notes the presence of rock-cut Jain images.
   • Manbhum (Chotanagpur Division): The district is described as a significant, albeit neglected, center of Jainism, lying on ancient trade routes between Bengal and Orissa. It highlights numerous scattered Jain antiquities, including temples and sculptures, many of which are found in ruins or integrated into local life, often without proper recognition. Places like Pakbira, Chandankiari, Boram, and Dulmi are detailed for their Jain relics.
   • Singhbhum (Chotanagpur Division): Similar to Manbhum, Singhbhum shows evidence of Jain presence, particularly through the "Sravaks" or "Saraks," who were known for their skill in copper mining and their influence on the region's architecture. The book mentions ancient mines, tanks, and scattered relics, indicating a significant Jain past.
   • Gaya: The district is closely associated with Jainism, with relics found on Brahma-Yoni hill (possibly Sambhavanatha) and the Barabar hills, which, despite being often associated with Ajivikas and Buddhists, likely had Jain influence given King Kharavela's presence and the architectural similarities. Gunawa, near Nawadah, is identified as a place frequently visited by Gautam Swami, Mahavira's chief disciple.
   • Shahabad: This district is noted for keeping old Jain traditions alive through modern shrines and institutions. Excavations at Chausa yielded significant Jain antiquities from the 6th-9th centuries AD. Arrah, the district headquarters, is home to numerous Jain temples, both old and modern, and cultural institutions like the Jain Siddhanta Bhawan, which houses a vast collection of Jain manuscripts.
   • Bhagalpur: As the ancient Anga Desha, Bhagalpur (specifically Champanagar and Champapur) was a region Mahavira visited. Mandar Hill, where Basu Pujyanath attained Nirvana, is a sacred site for Jains. Karna Garh Hill also shows evidence of Jain relics.
   • Patna: Bihar's capital was a crucial center of Jainism, with Mahavira's activities frequently covering the district. Pawapuri, the site of Mahavira's Nirvana, and Rajgir, a confluence of Buddhism and Jainism and the birthplace of Muni Subratnath, are extensively discussed as major pilgrimage sites. The book details the Agam Kuan well in Patna, referencing legends involving Jain priests.
   • Muzaffarpur: Vaisali, in this district, is mentioned as a significant site visited by Mahavira and is controversially identified by some as his birthplace. The city's historical prosperity and its connection to Jainism are explored, alongside findings from archaeological excavations.

5. Neglect and Preservation Challenges: A recurring theme throughout the book is the unfortunate neglect and vandalism that many Jain relics in Bihar have suffered over centuries. The author laments the poor condition and disappearance of many ancient statues and temples, often due to lack of official protection and public indifference. The book serves as a call to historians, archaeologists, and the Jain community to recognize and preserve this invaluable heritage.

6. Historical Sources and Methodologies: Choudhury draws upon various historical sources, including the writings of travelers like Buchanan and Buchanan-Hamilton, archaeological survey reports by Beglar, and older gazetteers. He critically examines differing theories and identifications of sites, highlighting the difficulties in distinguishing Jain from Buddhist artifacts due to similar architectural styles and the erosion of identifying marks.

In essence, "Jainism in Bihar" is a pioneering work that meticulously documents the rich, often hidden, Jain legacy within Bihar, underscoring the state's pivotal role in Jain history and advocating for the preservation of its material culture.