Prachin Jain Itihas Sangraha Part 01 Patliputra Ka Itihas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Prachin Jain Itihas Sangraha Part 01: Patliputra ka Itihas" by Gyansundar Maharaj, focusing on the historical narrative presented:

Overview:

This book, "Prachin Jain Itihas Sangraha Part 01: Patliputra ka Itihas" (Collection of Ancient Jain History, Part 01: History of Pataliputra), authored by Munishri Gyansundarji Maharaj, aims to present a historical account of Jainism, with a particular focus on its development and influence during the era connected to Pataliputra (modern-day Patna). The narrative spans from the time of the first Tirthankar, Lord Rishabhdev, to the period following Lord Mahavir, highlighting the ebb and flow of Jain Dharma amidst the rise and influence of other religious and philosophical traditions, particularly Brahminism and Buddhism.

Key Themes and Historical Narrative:

The book traces the history of Jainism through the reigns of various Tirthankars and influential rulers, emphasizing the following:

• Early Period and the Influence of Brahmins: The text begins by stating that Jain Dharma was the universal religion until the time of the ninth Tirthankar, Lord Suvidhinath. Following this, it alleges that "fake Brahmins" began to alter scriptures for self-interest. These Brahmins, who were initially responsible for social order through four Vedas created by Bharata Maharaj under Lord Rishabhdev's guidance, misused the trust placed in them. They introduced new rituals and doctrines, leading to confusion and the monopolization of religion by a particular sect.

• Cycles of Revival and Decline: The history is presented as a series of cycles where Jain Dharma experienced periods of flourishing and decline.

  • Lord Shitalnath's efforts brought about a revival by dispelling blind faith.
  • However, after his Nirvana, the Brahmins regained influence, promoting animal sacrifices and intoxicating substances.
  • Periods of revival under Lords Shreyansanath, Vasupujya, Vimalnath, and Anantnath were followed by renewed Brahminical dominance.
  • Lord Dharmanath's reign saw a return to righteousness, but this was again challenged by false beliefs.
  • Lord Shantinath's era brought lasting peace and the widespread propagation of Ahimsa (non-violence).
  • During the time of Lord Munisuvrat Swami, Ahimsa flourished, and the text notes his role in stopping the Ashwamedha Yagna in Bharuch.
  • However, the influence of Brahmins increased again towards the end of the reigns of the 20th and 21st Tirthankars, leading to the promotion of animal sacrifices and meat consumption.

• Lord Ravana and Ahimsa: The text highlights Emperor Ravana's efforts to stop animal sacrifices and his punishment of perpetrators. It argues that Brahmins labeled Ravana a "Rakshasa" (demon) due to his opposition to these violent rituals. The text asserts Ravana was a devout Jain who performed rituals at Ashtapad and attained knowledge. It also mentions other great Jain emperors of his time who resisted ritualistic violence.

• Lord Naminath and the Spread of Jainism: During the reign of Lord Naminath, Jain Dharma saw significant growth, with many kings and emperors embracing the faith. The construction of numerous Jinnalayas (temples) is noted, with a specific mention of a devotee named Asadh who built temples at Ashtapad.

• Lord Parshvanath: The book dedicates a significant section to Lord Parshvanath, describing his immense intellect and his triumph over ascetics like Kamatha. His fame and the prevalence of his mantras and yantras are emphasized. His preaching primarily occurred in regions like Kashi, Kosal, Anga, Vanga, Kalinga, and Kunala. The presence of an inscription detailing his life at Hansipur cave in Udayagiri, Kalinga, is cited as proof of his influence there.

• Lord Mahavir and the Golden Age of Jainism: The arrival of Lord Mahavir is portrayed as a crucial turning point, bringing widespread peace and establishing the principles of Ahimsa and universal love. His teachings broke caste barriers, leading to a massive following of monks, nuns, and lay devotees. The text claims that during his time, Jainism overshadowed Buddhism and Vedanta, with almost all of India coming under its banner. A long list of prominent kings and rulers who were devout Jains is provided.

• The Importance of Pataliputra: The narrative then shifts its focus to Pataliputra, mentioning that the history following Lord Mahavir is largely centered around this city, as most of its rulers were historically significant figures.

• The Shishunaga Dynasty (King Prasenjit, Shrenik, Konik, Udai):

  • King Prasenjit tested his sons and found Shrenik (Bimbisara) to be the most capable.
  • Shrenik (Bimbisara) initially encountered Buddhist monks and, seeking royal favor, made a promise to promote Buddhism. However, his Jain queen, Chellana, played a significant role in his eventual inclination towards Jainism, further solidified by the teachings of Anathi Muni. Shrenik actively promoted Jainism within and outside India, sending an idol of Lord Rishabhdev to a king in an "Anarya" (non-Indian) land.
  • Konik (Ajatashatru), Shrenik's son, is described as a valiant ruler who established his capital at Champa. While Buddhist texts mention him as a Buddhist king, the text strongly asserts his conversion to Jainism and his efforts to spread the faith to northern lands. His dedication to Lord Mahavir's teachings is highlighted, along with his military prowess, including his victory over King Chetak.
  • Udai, Konik's son, shifted the capital to Pataliputra. His reign saw further progress in Jainism, with the populace following the king's lead. The text notes the rise of Vedanta and Buddhism but emphasizes the strength of Jainism due to the principles of Syadvada and Ahimsa. Udai prioritized religion over state affairs and was tragically assassinated by someone sent by opposing religious groups.

• The Nand Dynasty: After the Shishunaga dynasty, the Nand dynasty came to power. Nandavardhana, the first Nand king, initially followed Brahmanism and is suspected of orchestrating Udai's murder. He actively promoted Vedanta and opposed Jain and Buddhist faiths. However, the text suggests he may have later converted to Jainism. It's stated that all nine Nand kings were Jains, citing their bringing of a Jain idol from Kalinga to their capital as evidence and referencing scholarly works.

• The Mauryan Dynasty (Chandragupta Maurya, Bindusara, Ashoka):

  • Chandragupta Maurya, with the help of the intelligent Chanakya, overthrew the Nand dynasty and ascended to the throne, becoming the first emperor of India. He defeated Alexander the Great and established a vast empire. The text strongly asserts that Chandragupta Maurya was a Jain, with his guru being the last Shruta Kevali, Acharya Bhadrabahuswami. He propagated Jainism far beyond India, reaching regions like Kabul, Kandahar, Arabia, Greece, Egypt, and America. The text criticizes Brahmin accounts that portray him as belonging to a low caste, attributing this to his Jain faith. It presents extensive evidence from various scholars and archaeological findings to support his Jain identity, including his renunciation of the throne for Jain asceticism and attaining Sallekhana (voluntary death by starvation).
  • Bindusara, Chandragupta's son, succeeded him. He was also a powerful ruler and a proponent of Jainism. His reign was peaceful and marked by public welfare activities like building wells, ponds, gardens, schools, and Jinnalayas.
  • Ashoka, Bindusara's son, was initially a Jain. The text cites his inscriptions and edicts, which contain praises for Lord Parshvanath. It suggests that Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism occurred after his conquest of Kalinga, where the bloodshed deeply affected him. A Buddhist monk then persuaded him to embrace Buddhism, and Ashoka became a fervent promoter of this faith, building monasteries and Buddha statues. However, the text notes Ashoka's lack of animosity towards other religions and his continued sympathy for Jains.

• The Post-Mauryan Period (King Brihadratha, Pushyamitra Shunga, Kharavela):

  • Ashoka's son, Brihadratha, was a weak ruler, and his minister, Pushyamitra (also known as Pushpamantri or Brihaspati), a Brahmin, assassinated him and seized the throne. He revitalized Brahmanism.
  • Mahameghavahana King Kharavela of Kalinga invaded Magadha, defeated Pushyamitra, and recovered wealth and a golden Jain idol that the Nanda kings had taken from Kalinga. This event brought Magadha under Kalinga's dominion.

• King Samprati: The narrative then focuses on King Samprati of Ujjain, a descendant of King Kunala. He is portrayed as a devout Jain who, after experiencing past-life memories, dedicated himself to the faith. He is credited with immense contributions to Jainism, including building a vast number of temples and statues, renovating old temples, and establishing charitable institutions. He organized a grand pilgrimage to Shatrunjaya. His commitment to spreading Jainism abroad is a major theme, with efforts to send missionaries to "Anarya" countries like Afghanistan, Persia, Greece, Egypt, and Tibet. The text presents verses from ancient Jain texts that describe Samprati's efforts to prepare these regions for Jain missionaries by sending disguised individuals to establish familiarity with Jain customs and practices. The success of these efforts led to Jainism spreading widely across Asia and even into Africa and America. The text emphasizes the widespread idol worship during this period, with Jainism being a significant contributor. It estimates the Jain population at forty crore during this era, attributing this growth to the patronage of powerful rulers like Chandragupta Maurya, Bindusara, Ashoka, and Samprati.

• Legacy of Samprati: Samprati is hailed as the last "Rajrishi" (royal sage) who actively promoted Jainism. His history is considered to be written in golden letters, and his contribution to the Jain community is deemed unforgettable. He ultimately attained Samadhi Marana (peaceful death). The book also addresses the debate surrounding Samprati's historicity, with modern scholarship increasingly confirming his existence and significant role in Jainism's propagation, even suggesting that some inscriptions attributed to Ashoka might actually belong to Samprati.

Conclusion:

The book, "Prachin Jain Itihas Sangraha Part 01: Patliputra ka Itihas," serves as a historical testament to the enduring presence and influence of Jain Dharma throughout ancient Indian history. It highlights the dynamic interplay between Jainism and other religious traditions, the roles of key spiritual and political figures, and the significant cultural and religious impact that Jainism had, not only within India but also across its borders. The author's intent is to demonstrate the historical depth and legitimacy of Jain traditions and figures, correcting what they perceive as misrepresentations or omissions in other historical accounts.