Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 02 Khand 02 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 02 Khand 02" by Kamtaprasad Jain. This summary focuses on the content presented in the provided pages, covering the preface, historical context, and early chapters of the book.

Book Title: Sankshipta Jain Itihas (Concise Jain History), Part 02, Second Volume (Khand 02) Author: Babu Kamtaprasad Jain Publisher: Mulchand Kisandas Kapadia

Overall Purpose and Tone: The book aims to present a historically grounded account of Jainism, correcting what the author perceives as distorted or misunderstood aspects of its core principle, Ahimsa (non-violence). The author emphasizes the importance of understanding Jain history for the revival and progress of the Jain community. The tone is scholarly, aiming to present factual information while acknowledging the use of traditional narratives and legends.

Key Themes and Content Covered in the Provided Pages:

Preface (Page 5-30):
- Addressing Misconceptions of Ahimsa: The author begins by stating that Ahimsa in Jainism has sometimes taken a distorted form, becoming a source of ridicule. The book is intended to clarify this misconception.
- Importance of History: The preface stresses the vital role of history in fostering national pride, self-awareness, and progress. It suggests that understanding their glorious past is crucial for Jains to achieve greater heights.
- Methodology: The author acknowledges the inclusion of Jain narratives and legends alongside historical evidence. He justifies this by stating that such stories, unless contradicted by independent evidence like inscriptions, are valuable for reconstructing the history of a community. The author assures readers that any information based purely on legend is clearly indicated.
- Scope and Structure: This volume (Part 02, Second Volume) covers the period from approximately 250 BCE to 1300 CE, focusing on Northern India. It is part of a larger series intended to cover Jain history from ancient times to the present. The author notes that previous parts have covered puranic figures and the period up to the Shunga dynasty. This volume specifically deals with Northern India during the specified period, with a future volume intended for South India.
- Jainism as a Science of Strength: The author argues that Jainism, in its true form, is a religion of strength and action, not idleness. He cites historical figures like Chandragupta Maurya and Samprati, who actively spread Jain influence, as examples of this strength. He refutes the notion that Jainism inherently leads to weakness or inaction.
- Challenging the "Kalyanakas" vs. "Kalyana" Distinction: The author suggests a potential connection between the Jain "Kalyanakas" (auspicious events) and the concept of "Kalyana" (well-being) as experienced by the Jain people.
- Historical Significance of Jainism: The author highlights that Jainism was a powerful force that influenced various cultures, including attracting foreigners. He emphasizes that Jainism, in its essence, is beneficial to the world.
- Indo-Bactrian and Indo-Parthian Rule (Page 30-52):
  - This section begins by discussing the establishment of Greek rule in India after Alexander. It mentions rulers like Demetrius and Menander (Milinda).
  - Menander and Jainism: The author suggests that King Menander might have been influenced by Jainism before adopting Buddhism. He notes similarities in philosophical debates and mentions that some Greeks in Menander's court showed interest in Jainism. The presence of Jain inscriptions in areas under Menander's rule is also highlighted.
  - Saka and Kushan Invasions: The text details the invasions and establishment of rule by the Sakas (known as Scythians) and Kushans. It mentions rulers like Maues, Azes I, and Kanishka.
  - Saka Sympathy for Jainism: The narrative around Kalacharya suggests that the Sakas were receptive to Jainism. The story of Kalacharya and the invasion of Ujjain by the Sakas around 100 BCE is presented, indicating potential interaction and influence.
  - Kanishka and Buddhism: Kanishka's reign is described, noting his patronage of Buddhism and the council held during his time, which led to the division of Buddhist sects.
  - Limited Impact of Foreign Culture: The author argues that despite foreign rule (Greeks, Sakas, Kushans), Indian culture, particularly Brahmanical and Jain traditions, remained largely unaffected by foreign civilization. Instead, these Indian religions influenced the foreigners, leading many to convert.
  - Maturai as a Jain Center: The text highlights Mathura's significance as a major center for Jainism during the Kushan empire, with numerous stupas and temples.
  - Jainism's Broad Appeal: Jainism is described as having a wide reach, attracting people from various social strata, including traders, dancers, and courtesans, who contributed to the construction of temples and religious sites.
- Emperor Kharavela (Page 30-78):
  - Lineage and Dynasty: Kharavela is presented as belonging to the Chedi dynasty, with ancestral ties to the Ikshvaku dynasty of Kosala and the Harivamsha lineage. His family name is linked to Mahameghavahana, and the dynasty to the "Aila Chedi" lineage.
  - Coronation and Early Reign: Kharavela ascended to the throne as a young ruler and was formally crowned at the age of 25. His early reign focused on restoring and improving his capital, Kalinganagara (modern Bhubaneswar), and addressing public welfare.
  - Military Campaigns and Empire Building: The text details Kharavela's extensive military campaigns, emphasizing his conquests in Western India against the Satavahana ruler Satakarni I, and his subsequent campaigns against the Rashtrikas and Bhojakas.
  - Conquest of Magadha and Impact on Northern India: A significant portion is dedicated to Kharavela's invasion of Magadha, his victory over Pushyamitra Shunga, and his military movements into Northern India. He is described as having recovered the Jin idol brought to Magadha by the Nanda kings. His military prowess is compared to Napoleon's.
  - Patronage of Jainism: Kharavela's strong adherence to Jainism is a central theme. He is credited with revitalizing Jainism in Kalinga, which was already a significant center. He is described as undertaking severe vows and penances at Kumari Parvata (Udayagiri), a place associated with Jain religious activity.
  - Restoration of Jain Scriptures: A crucial contribution attributed to Kharavela is the effort to restore the lost Twelfth Anga (Dvadasanga) of Jain scripture, which was believed to have been fragmented or lost after Bhadrabahu. The text suggests Kharavela convened a council of Jain ascetics to achieve this restoration.
  - The Hathigumpha Inscription: The inscription is described as a significant historical document, providing detailed information about Kharavela's reign, his campaigns, his reign dates, and his Jain affiliations. Its language and script are analyzed.
  - Chronology and Dating: The text discusses the challenges in establishing a precise chronology for this period, including debates surrounding the Saka Samvat and its origins. The author references various theories and suggests that the Jain tradition places the origin of a "Shaka king" in relation to Nahapana.
  - Nahapana and Jainism: The prominent Saka ruler Nahapana is identified with the Jain tradition's "Naravahana." The text highlights Nahapana's generous patronage of Jainism, his vast wealth, and his administrative activities, including the establishment of religious places. The conversion of foreigners like the Sakas to Jainism is also mentioned.
  - Rudravarman and Jainism: The possibility of Maharaja Rudrasimha being a Jain follower is suggested due to the inscription mentioning "Kevalgyana" (omniscience), a term significant in Jainism.
- Other Kings and Jainism (Page 57-110):
  - Nagvansha and Jainism: The Nagas, associated with Ahichhatra and Mathura, are discussed, with references to their possible Jain leanings and the existence of Jain temples and inscriptions from the early centuries CE.
  - The Vimalanatha connection to Panchala: The text notes that Kampilya, in the Panchala region, was the birthplace and place of penance for the 13th Tirthankara, Vimalanatha.
  - Bhavad Seth and Vajraswami: The story of Bhavad, a wealthy Jain merchant, and his interactions with the Jain ascetic Vajraswami is recounted, highlighting the patronage of Jainism by merchants.
  - Kushana Empire and Jainism: The flourishing of Jainism under the Kushan Empire, particularly in Mathura, is emphasized.
  - Vikramaditya and Jainism: The complex historical debate surrounding Vikramaditya is presented. The author, following the interpretation of scholars like K.P. Jayaswal, links Vikramaditya to Gautamiputra Satakarni of the Andhra dynasty. The text discusses Vikramaditya's Jain leanings, his patronage of Jain scholars like Siddhasena Divakara, and his role in the spread of the Vikram Samvat.
  - Gupta Empire and Jainism: The Gupta period is described as a time when Brahmanism saw a resurgence, but Jainism and Buddhism remained influential. The author mentions the patronage of Jainism by rulers like Chandragupta II (Vikramaditya), though he was also associated with Vaishnavism. The existence of Jain scholars and their contribution to literature during this era is noted.
  - Harsavardhana and Jainism: Harsavardhana's reign is portrayed as a period of religious tolerance, where Jainism, Buddhism, and Brahmanism coexisted. The author references Xuanzang's account of Jain presence in various regions, including Afghanistan, Gandhara, and Northern India. The text notes the decline of Buddhism and the rise of Brahmanism during this era, while Jainism continued to maintain a significant presence.
  - Education System: The education system during Harsavardhana's time is described, highlighting the emphasis on grammar, literature, arts, medicine, logic, and philosophy.
  - Jainism in Gujarat: A significant portion is dedicated to the history of Jainism in Gujarat, from its ancient roots to the medieval period. The influence of rulers like Chandragupta Maurya, Samprati, Kharavela, and the various dynasties like Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, and Solankis on the promotion of Jainism is detailed.
  - Origin of Shvetambara Agamas: The text discusses the compilation and potential influence of Buddhist texts on the Shvetambara Agamas during the 6th century CE, citing scholars like Jacobi and Buhler.
  - Internal Divisions and Schools: The emergence of various Jain schools (Gachhas) within both the Digambara and Shvetambara traditions is touched upon, along with the debate on their origins and the significance of figures like Vajraswami and the "Ardha-phalaka" sect.
  - Decline of Jainism and Social Changes: The impact of Muslim invasions and the rise of Bhakti movements on Jainism is discussed, leading to a decline in its influence and the assimilation of some Jain traditions into Hinduism. The impact of social changes, including the caste system, on the Jain community is also noted.

Key Figures and Dynasties Mentioned:

Rulers: Kharavela, Menander, Azes I, Kanishka, Nahapana, Rudrasimha, Chandragupta I, Samudragupta, Chandragupta II (Vikramaditya), Harsha, Pulakesi II, Bhoja Paramara, Munj, Sindhuraja, Bhoja, Kumarapala, Siddharaja Jayasimha, Ajaysinha, Viradhvala, Vastupala, Tejpal.
Jain Ascetics/Scholars: Kalacharya, Vajraswami, Dharasena, Pushpadanta, Bhutabali, Mahagiri, Subhadra, Yashobhadra, Siddhasena Divakara, Kundakundacharya, Amitagati, Somadeva Suri, Hemachandra, Jinabhadra Suri, Jinadatta Suri.
Dynasties: Indo-Bactrian, Indo-Parthian, Saka, Kushan, Shunga, Satavahana, Gupta, Chedi, Chalukya, Rashtrakuta, Solanki, Vaghela, Paramara, Chauhan, Rathore, Kachhwaha.

Overall, this volume of "Sankshipta Jain Itihas" aims to provide a detailed historical narrative of Jainism's presence and influence in Northern India from antiquity to the medieval period, highlighting the patronage of Jainism by various rulers and the development of Jain religious and philosophical thought.