Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 03 Khand 01 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 03 Khand 01" by Kamtaprasad Jain, focusing on the history of Jainism in South India:

Book Title: Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 03 Khand 01 (Concise Jain History, Part 3, Volume 1) Author: Kamtaprasad Jain Publisher: Mulchand Kisandas Kapadia Subject: History of Jainism in South India

Overall Aim and Scope:

This volume is the first part of the third volume of Kamtaprasad Jain's extensive work on Jain history. Its primary focus is to meticulously trace the history of Jainism in South India, a region often considered distinct in its historical trajectory compared to North India. The author aims to establish the antiquity and pervasiveness of Jainism in the South, drawing upon Jain scriptures, Tamil literature, archaeological findings, and inscriptions.

Key Themes and Arguments:

Antiquity of Jainism in South India: The central thesis is that Jainism is not merely a later import into South India but has a history as ancient as Jainism itself, dating back to the time of the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhadeva.
Reconciling Mythological and Historical Periods: The book acknowledges the "Pauranik Kal" (Mythological Period) and the "Aitihasik Kal" (Historical Period). The author argues that even mythological accounts, when interpreted through Jain tradition and supported by other evidence, provide crucial insights into the early presence of Jainism.
Pan-Indian Civilization Preceding Vedic Aryans: A significant argument is made that a unified civilization and culture existed across India before the arrival and dominance of Vedic Aryans. This earlier civilization, associated with the people of the Indus Valley, Dravidians, Nagas, and Asuras, had strong connections to Jainism.
The Role of Asuras and Dravidians: The text posits that the Asuras, often depicted negatively in Vedic texts, were likely adherents of Jainism. Their characteristics described in Vedic literature (e.g., language, symbols like the serpent, adherence to Kshatriya dharma, knowledge of astrology and magic) are presented as aligning with Jain traditions. The author also links the Dravidian civilization of South India to this earlier pan-Indian culture.
Lord Rishabhadeva's Influence: Lord Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankara, is presented not just as a spiritual leader but also as a "Kulakar" ( Manu) who established civilized life. His influence extended to South India, dividing the land into various administrative regions, some of which are located in the South.
Mythological Figures as Historical Antecedents: The book details the lives and roles of mythological figures like Bharata Chakravarti, Bahubali, Tritishta (Narayana), Dwiprishta (Narayana), Rama, Lakshmana, Ravana, and the Pandavas, interpreting their stories to highlight their connections with Jainism and their presence in or influence over South India. Bahubali is particularly emphasized as the first "Samrat" (Emperor) of South India in the Jain tradition.
Presence of Jainism during Major Epochs: The text asserts that Jainism was prevalent during the times of subsequent Tirthankaras like Ajitanatha, Munisuvratanatha, Arishtanemi, Parshvanatha, and Mahavira. Their ascents to enlightenment, travels, and dissemination of Jain principles are linked to various regions in South India, with specific sites like Podanpur, Ramtek (Bhuttachal/Ramgiri), Kanchi, and Mahabalipuram being mentioned.
Panchaliyas (Five Houses) and the Pandavas: The text discusses the Pandavas' exile and their eventual settlement in South India, their interactions with Jain principles, and their spiritual journey culminating in accepting Jainism under Lord Arishtanemi.
Lord Parshvanatha's Extensive Travels: The travels and teachings of Lord Parshvanatha are detailed, emphasizing his influence in South Indian regions like Maharashtra, Kalinga, Karnataka, Dravida, and Pallava, countering the notion that Jainism's presence was limited to North India.
Lord Mahavira's Connection to South India: While Lord Mahavira's primary activity was in North India, the author argues that his influence and teachings extended to regions near the Vindhyas and the Deccan, impacting areas like Hemangadesha, Karkata, and regions where his disciples preached.
Early Dynasties and Jainism: The book discusses the impact of early dynasties like the Nandas and Mauryas on South India, particularly Emperor Chandragupta Maurya's significant role. It suggests that Chandragupta, influenced by his Jain guru Bhadrabahu, migrated to South India (specifically Shravanabelagola) during a famine, leading to a significant propagation of Jainism in the region. Samprati Maurya is also highlighted for his patronage of Jainism across India and abroad.
The Andhra Empire and Jainism: The rise of the Andhra dynasty (Satavahana/Shalivahana) is presented as a period where Jainism continued to flourish, with kings like Gautamiputra Satakarni showing patronage, and the empire's trade routes facilitating the spread of Jain culture.
Dravidian Kingdoms (Chera, Chola, Pandya) and Jainism: The text provides detailed accounts of the Chera, Chola, and Pandya kingdoms, asserting that Jainism was deeply entrenched in these regions from ancient times. The literary evidence from Tamil Sangam literature (like Manimekhalai, Silappadikaram, and Tolkappiyam) is used to demonstrate the presence of Jain monks, monasteries, and widespread acceptance of Jain principles, including vegetarianism and non-violence.
The Jain Sangha in South India: A significant portion is dedicated to the structure and influence of the Jain Sangha in South India. It highlights the unbroken tradition of the Sangha from Lord Rishabhadeva, the importance of Bahubali, the influence of Kundakundacharya and Samantabhadra Swamiji, and the presence of Jain monastic orders (Sramanas, Nigranthas) and lay followers.
Kundakundacharya's Significance: The great Acharya Kundakundacharya is given considerable attention. His Tamil treatise "Kural" is analyzed, and its Jain philosophical underpinnings are demonstrated, arguing that he was a Jain scholar whose influence transcended linguistic boundaries. His writings, like "Pravachanasara," are presented as cornerstones of Jain philosophy, deeply rooted in South Indian soil.
Umaswati and Samantabhadra Swamiji: The works and influence of Acharyas Umaswati (author of Tattvarthadhigama Sutra) and Samantabhadra Swamiji are discussed, emphasizing their contributions to the systematization and propagation of Jain philosophy, and their strong connections to South India.

Methodology:

The author relies on a multidisciplinary approach:

Jain Scriptures: Agamas, Puranas (e.g., Mahapurana, Uttarapurana, Harivamsha Purana), Charitras (e.g., Parshvanatha Charitra, Jambu Kumar Charitra, Karandhu Charitra).
Tamil Literature: Sangam period works like Manimekhalai, Silappadikaram, Tolkappiyam, and Kural.
Archaeological Evidence: Inscriptions (Brahmi script), statues, sculptures, and ancient sites.
Foreign Accounts: Mentions by Greek travelers and historians.
Vedic and Puranic Texts: Interpreting them from a Jain perspective to find corroborating evidence.

Structure of the Volume:

The volume is structured chronologically, beginning with the "Pauranik Kal" (Mythological Period) and moving into the "Aitihasik Kal" (Historical Period). The historical period is further divided into:

Ancient Period (circa 5000 BCE to 1 CE)
Medieval Period (1 CE to 1400 CE)
Modern Period (ongoing)

This volume covers the mythological period and the ancient historical period up to roughly the 5th century CE, detailing the reigns of early kings, Tirthankaras, Narayanas, and the Mauryan and early Andhra periods in South India.

Conclusion:

"Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 03 Khand 01" is a seminal work that aims to firmly establish the deep-rooted and ancient presence of Jainism in South India. It argues that Jainism was an integral part of the earliest Indian civilization and played a significant role in shaping the religious, cultural, and social landscape of the South long before many other traditions took hold. The book presents Jainism not as an external imposition but as an indigenous spiritual heritage of South India.