Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 02 Khand 01

This comprehensive summary outlines the content of "Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 02 Khand 01" by Kamtaprasad Jain, based on the provided table of contents and introductory pages. The book appears to be a historical account of Jainism, focusing on its origins, prominent figures, and societal context.

Overall Scope:

The book aims to provide a detailed historical narrative of Jainism, beginning with its ancient roots and tracing its development through various dynasties and significant events in Indian history. It intends to highlight the influence of Jainism on the socio-religious and political landscape of ancient and medieval India.

Key Themes and Chapters:

The table of contents reveals a structured approach to presenting Jain history, covering:

• The Essence and Antiquity of Jainism: The book begins by establishing the fundamental nature of Jainism and emphasizing its ancient origins. It also touches upon the general state of ancient India and its major kingdoms during that period.
• The Shishunaga Dynasty: This section likely details the origins and prominent rulers of the Shishunaga dynasty, including figures like Bimbisara and Ajatashatru, and their potential connections or interactions with Jainism.
• Republics of Lichchavi and others: The text explores the existence and significance of democratic republics in ancient India, specifically mentioning the Lichchavis, King Chetak, and other associated states and figures. It highlights the prevalence of republican systems in ancient India.
• Kshatriyas of the Jnatri Clan and Lord Mahavir: This crucial part focuses on the Jnatri Kshatriyas, their prominent figures like King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala, and the life and times of Lord Mahavir. It covers the spread of Jainism across various regions of India.
• The Vir Sangh and Other Kings: This chapter likely discusses the monastic order (Vir Sangh) and its prominent figures like Gautama and Sudharma, along with their influence and interactions with contemporary rulers.
• Civilization and Circumstances of the Time: This section delves into the social, economic, and religious conditions of the era, including the status of women and the practices of monks, nuns, and lay followers (Shravakas).
• Nirvana of Lord Mahavir: The book addresses the date of Lord Mahavir's Nirvana, referencing various eras like Vir Samvat, Shaka, Shalivahana, Nahapana, and Vikram Samvat.
• The Last Kevali, Shrimad Jambuswami: This chapter focuses on the life, valor, renunciation, and spiritual teachings of Jambuswami, the last Kevali (omniscient being) in Jain tradition, and also presents the Svetambara perspective.
• The Nanda Dynasty: The book details the Nanda dynasty, including its rulers and their reign.
• Alexander the Great's Invasion and Contemporary Jain Sadhus: This section discusses the impact of Alexander's invasion on India and his encounters with Jain ascetics, referred to as Gymnosophists, and specific figures like Mandanis and Callisthenes.
• Shrutakevali Bhadrabahu and Other Acharyas: This chapter covers the migration of the Jain Sangha to the south, the split within the Jain Sangha, the decline of Shruta Jnana (scriptural knowledge), and prominent Acharyas like Sthulabhadra.
• The Mauryan Empire: This extensive section covers the Mauryan Empire, including Chandragupta Maurya, Seleucus, administration, social conditions, religious landscape, and the assertion that Chandragupta was a Jain. It also discusses Chanakya, Ashoka, the Kalinga War, Ashoka's teachings, his inscriptions, and his philosophical principles from a Jain perspective, his propagation of Jainism, and his successors like Samprati.
• The Textual Index: This section indicates that the book has utilized various scholarly works, listing them with abbreviations. This suggests a rigorous academic approach to historical research.

Key Arguments and Assertions:

From the provided snippets, some central arguments and assertions can be inferred:

• Jainism's Ancient Origins: The book strongly emphasizes the deep antiquity of Jainism, predating many other religious traditions in India. It links Lord Rishabhanatha to the Vedic tradition and suggests the presence of Jain influences even in the Vedas.
• Lord Mahavir as a Reformer, Not Founder: While acknowledging Lord Mahavir's pivotal role, the text suggests he was a reformer and reviver of an ancient tradition, not its originator.
• Jainism's Influence on Other Religions: The book hints at the significant influence of Jain principles on Buddhism and even Vedic traditions, particularly concerning ethical conduct and philosophical concepts.
• Chandragupta Maurya's Jain Affiliation: A significant assertion is that Emperor Chandragupta Maurya was a Jain, and this is supported by various references and interpretations of historical texts.
• Ashoka's Jain Leanings: The book presents a case for Ashoka's initial leanings towards Jainism and highlights how his edicts and policies reflect Jain principles of non-violence, compassion, and ethical conduct.
• The Antiquity of Jain Practices: The text discusses the antiquity of Jain practices like nudity (Digambara), ahimsa, and the concept of Jivas in elements.
• Historical Methodology: The inclusion of a "Textual Index" suggests a reliance on a wide range of sources, both Jain and non-Jain, indicating a commitment to a scholarly approach to historical research.

In essence, "Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 02 Khand 01" appears to be a scholarly endeavor to present a comprehensive historical account of Jainism, meticulously tracing its origins, key figures like Lord Mahavir and Chandragupta Maurya, and its profound impact on ancient Indian society and thought. The book likely aims to establish Jainism's legitimate historical standing and its contributions to the broader religious and philosophical heritage of India.