Maurya Chandragupta Vishakhacharya

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Maurya Chandragupta Vishakhacharya" by Chandrakant Bali, focusing on its key arguments and historical interpretations:

Core Argument:

The book aims to meticulously analyze the timeline and lineage of prominent figures in ancient Indian history, particularly the Mauryan dynasty and related personalities like Chandragupta, Pushyamitra, and Bhadrabahu, within the framework of Jain chronological traditions and historical records. It seeks to rectify historical misconceptions, especially the conflation of different Chandraguptas and the accurate placement of events like famines and the influence of Jainism.

Key Points and Arguments:

1. The Maurya Dynasty's Origin:

   • The text challenges the idea that the Maurya dynasty was established by a direct descendant of the Nandas in a simple father-son relationship.
   • It identifies the founder as "Mouryananda" (the eighth Nanda), who is credited with invading Kalinga and bringing back an idol of Mahavir Swami.
   • While acknowledging the historical debate, the author leans towards identifying Mouryananda as the first male ancestor of the Maurya dynasty.

2. Chandragupta Maurya's Parentage and Timeline:

   • The text critically examines the claim that Chandragupta Maurya was the son of Mouryananda, finding a significant temporal discrepancy.
   • It suggests that "Purvananda" might be the actual father of Chandragupta, and Mouryananda and Chandragupta might be separated by another individual.
   • The author aligns with Jain scriptures which suggest Chandragupta was a son, further corroborated by "Mudrarakshasa." However, the father-son link with Mouryananda is deemed unlikely due to the time gap.
   • The text strongly refutes the popular belief that Chandragupta Maurya became a Jain monk and migrated south with Bhadrabahu, citing chronological inconsistencies.

3. The Great Famines and their Impact on Jainism:

   • The text highlights two significant 12-year famines in Indian history:
     • First Famine: During the reign of Padmananda (the Ninth Nanda), from 382-370 BCE. This was a universal famine that caused immense loss to Jainism, as many Jain monks died, leading to the loss of orally transmitted Jain scriptures (Agamas).
     • Second Famine: During the reign of Pushyamitra of the Shunga dynasty, from 160-148 BCE. This famine was limited to North India and also caused significant damage to Jainism, though the scriptures survived better due to earlier efforts.
   • The author emphasizes that these famines were crucial in shaping the historical narrative and understanding the survival and transmission of Jain knowledge.

4. Bhadrabahu's Role and Identification:

   • The text clarifies the existence of two prominent figures named Bhadrabahu.
     • Mahasthavir Bhadrabahu: The revered Jain Acharya who played a pivotal role in the preservation and compilation of Jain Agamas after the first famine. He is crucial for the continuity of Jain tradition.
     • Bhadrabahu (Brother of Varahamihira): A Brahmin who, along with his brother, became a Jain monk but later reverted to Brahmanism due to perceived injustice in promotion.
   • The author stresses the importance of distinguishing between these two Bhadrabahus to avoid historical confusion.

5. The "Gupta Dynasty" and its Connection:

   • The text explores the possibility of a "Gupta dynasty" emerging from Ashoka's lineage, specifically mentioning Balmitra and Bhanumitra, sons of Tishaygupta (Ashoka's son).
   • It posits that Tishaygupta might be the origin of the "Gupta dynasty" name, drawing a parallel with the lineage of the Suryavanshi and Ikshvaku dynasties.
   • This "Gupta dynasty" is linked to Chandragupta, who ruled Ujjain.

6. Chandragupta of Ujjain (Chandragupta II):

   • The author specifically identifies and discusses Chandragupta of Ujjain as a distinct historical figure from Chandragupta Maurya.
   • This Chandragupta is described as a ruler of Ujjain, belonging to the "Gupta lineage," and a contemporary of Pushyamitra.
   • He is identified as the one who became Vishakhacharya after receiving Jain initiation from Bhadrabahu.
   • This Chandragupta is credited with foresight regarding a potential famine, influencing the movements of monks.

7. Chronological Frameworks and Dating:

   • The text extensively discusses various eras and their calibration, including the Vikram Samvat, Shaka Samvat, and Jain calendars (Vir Nirvana Samvat).
   • It highlights the importance of the Shaka era as a chronological marker in Jain history, suggesting an ancient Shaka era predating the more common one, linked to the Nanda and Maurya periods.
   • The author engages with the dating of events based on both Jain scriptures and other historical sources, aiming for a reconciled timeline.
   • A timeline is presented, placing key events such as the Nanda dynasty, the famines, the reigns of Chandragupta Maurya and Pushyamitra, and the lives of Bhadrabahu and Varahamihira in relation to each other.

8. Refutation of Misconceptions:

   • The primary misconception addressed is the idea of Chandragupta Maurya becoming a Jain monk and joining Bhadrabahu in the south. The text argues strongly against this due to chronological impossibilities.
   • It also addresses the potential confusion between different Chandraguptas, particularly Chandragupta Maurya and Chandragupta of Ujjain.

Author's Methodology:

• Cross-referencing: The author relies heavily on cross-referencing information from various Jain texts (Pattavalis, Tithogali, Harivanshapurana, Vividhthirthakalpa, etc.), Puranas, and Greek historians.
• Chronological Analysis: A core element of the book is the meticulous chronological analysis to establish the correct sequence of rulers, events, and individuals.
• Linguistic and Scriptural Interpretation: The author interprets the meaning of terms like "Nirvana" in Jain contexts and analyzes the historical evidence presented in Jain scriptures.

Overall Significance:

"Maurya Chandragupta Vishakhacharya" is a scholarly work that aims to provide a Jain-centric, chronologically sound historical narrative. It seeks to correct prevailing historical interpretations by:

• Establishing precise timelines for key figures and events.
• Differentiating between individuals with similar names (e.g., Chandragupta, Bhadrabahu).
• Highlighting the impact of Jainism on ancient Indian society and history.
• Correcting popular myths, particularly regarding Chandragupta Maurya's renunciation.

The book underscores the importance of rigorous research and textual analysis from a Jain perspective to understand India's rich and complex past.