Medieval Jainism

Here's a comprehensive summary of "Medieval Jainism: With Special Reference to the Vijayanagara Empire" by Bhasker Anand Saletore, based on the provided text:

Overall Thesis:

The book argues that Jainism, far from being a purely metaphysical or declining religion during the medieval period in South India, played a significant and active role in the socio-political and cultural landscape, particularly within the Vijayanagara Empire. Saletore emphasizes that Jainism was not just a passive faith but a dynamic force that contributed materially to the prosperity of the land and influenced various aspects of life, from politics and administration to art and literature. The book aims to demonstrate the widespread and enduring influence of Jainism, especially by highlighting the active participation of all strata of Jaina society – from kings and nobles to common citizens and women – in defending and promoting their faith.

Key Themes and Arguments:

1. Jainism as a "Religion of Action": Saletore strongly refutes the notion that Jainism was solely focused on asceticism and spiritual detachment. He presents it as a "religion of action," demonstrating how Jaina leaders and followers actively participated in statecraft, military campaigns, and economic development. The book highlights Jaina generals who were also devout adherents of their faith, showing that ahimsa (non-violence) did not impede their commitment to liberating their country from enemies.

2. The Ganga and Hoysala Kingdoms as "Jaina Creations": The author posits that the founding of the Ganga and Hoysala kingdoms were significantly influenced by Jaina wisdom and patronage. He details how Jaina sages acted as political instructors, guiding rulers and contributing to the establishment and sustenance of these dynasties. This early political involvement laid the groundwork for Jainism's later influence.

3. Royal and Princely Patronage: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to detailing the extensive patronage Jainism received from various ruling dynasties and their feudatories.

   • Ganga Dynasty: Saletore meticulously traces Jaina influence from the earliest Ganga rulers like Kongunivarma I, aided by the sage Simhanandi, through to later rulers like Avinita, Durvinita, and Marasimha, highlighting their grants to Jaina temples and support for Jaina scholars.
   • Kadambas: Although primarily Brahmanical, Saletore notes the patronage of Jainism by Kadamba rulers like Kākusthavarma and Mrgesavarma, who made grants and supported Jaina institutions, even documenting the presence of distinct Jaina sects (Svetambaras and Digambaras).
   • Rashtrakutas: The book details the patronage of Jainism by Rashtrakuta monarchs like Dantidurga, Govinda III, Amoghavarsa I, Krishna II, Krishna III, and Indra IV, highlighting their support for prominent Jaina gurus and institutions.
   • Western Chalukyas: Saletore shows how this dynasty continued the tradition of supporting Jainism, citing rulers like Tailapa II, Jayasimha III, Someśvara I, and Vikramaditya VI, and the prominent Jaina scholars of their time like Vadiraja and Ajitasena.
   • Hoysalas: The Hoysala dynasty is presented as a major patron, with rulers like Vishnuvardhana, Narasimha I, Ballala II, and Krishna III showing significant support, often influenced by their Jaina generals and queens.
   • Vijayanagara Empire: The book dedicates significant attention to the Vijayanagara period, arguing that despite being a Hindu empire, it provided crucial protection and patronage to Jainism. King Bukka Raya I's famous decree of A.D. 1368, promoting religious toleration and equality between Jainas and Srivaisnavas, is highlighted as a landmark decision that secured Jainism's future. Subsequent rulers like Deva Raya I, Deva Raya II, and even Krishnadeva Raya continued this policy, though Jainism's political prominence waned, shifting its focus to cultural and religious pursuits.

4. Jaina Men of Action: The book extensively profiles numerous Jaina generals and ministers who were not only military leaders but also devout patrons of Jainism. Figures like Cāmunda Rāya (renowned for his military achievements and the construction of the Gomatesvara statue), Ganga Rāja (instrumental in Hoysala military victories), Hulla, Punisa, and Irugappa are presented as crucial figures who defended the state and promoted their faith.

5. Women as Defenders of the Faith: Saletore dedicates a chapter to the significant role played by Jaina women. From royal consorts like Queen Santaladevi and Bhimā Devī to noble ladies and merchant wives, these women actively participated in constructing temples, endowing institutions, and adhering strictly to Jaina practices, including sallekhana (death by ritual fasting).

6. Popular Support and Jaina Centers: The book emphasizes that Jainism's appeal extended beyond the elite to the common populace, particularly the commercial classes (Vira Banajigas). Their financial support was crucial for building numerous temples and monasteries. Saletore details many important Jaina centers across Karnataka, the Tamil land, and the Andhradeśa, such as Śravana Belgola, Kopana, Humcca, Balligame, Mūdubidre, and Kārkala, illustrating the widespread presence and influence of Jainism.

7. Jainism's Contribution to Culture: The author highlights Jainism's profound impact on South Indian culture:

   • Literature: Jainas were instrumental in developing Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu literature, producing significant works in grammar, poetry, and religious texts.
   • Architecture: Jaina architecture is characterized by its distinct styles, including monolithic statues (Gomatesvara), unique pillar designs, and the tombs of priests and merchants, showcasing aesthetic and engineering prowess.
   • Toleration and Brotherhood: Jainism is credited with fostering a spirit of toleration and human brotherhood, exemplified by the "four gifts" (food, shelter, medicine, learning) and the harmonious co-existence with other religious communities, particularly evident in the Vijayanagara period.

8. Decline and Causes: The book also discusses the factors contributing to the decline of Jainism in certain regions, attributing it to:

   • The political downfall of its royal patrons.
   • The indifference of some Jaina leaders to the rise of rival Hindu revival movements like Vira Saivism.
   • The successful counter-missionary efforts of Saiva and Vaisnava saints, particularly in the Tamil land.
   • The shifting focus of the Vijayanagara Empire towards consolidating Hindu dharma, even while maintaining a policy of general toleration.

Methodology:

Saletore relies heavily on epigraphic evidence (inscriptions on stone and copper plates) and contemporary literature to reconstruct the history of medieval Jainism. He meticulously analyzes these sources to establish dates, identify figures, and trace the influence of Jainism across different regions and dynasties.

Significance:

"Medieval Jainism" aims to reposition Jainism from a marginal or declining religious sect to a significant historical actor that actively shaped the religious, political, and cultural development of South India, particularly during the vibrant Vijayanagara period. It underscores Jainism's resilience and adaptability, highlighting its ability to thrive and contribute even when facing political and religious challenges.