Some Historical Jaina Kings And Heros - Book Summary

This book, "Some Historical Jaina Kings & Heroes" by Kamtaprasad Jain, published by The Jain Mittra Mandal in 1941, aims to showcase the historical instances of Jain heroism across various eras of Indian history. The foreword by Elisabeth Fraser strongly refutes the notion that Jainism, particularly its doctrine of Ahimsa (non-violence), breeds cowardice and contributes to India's downfall. Instead, it argues that Ahimsa, when properly understood, is practical and allows for the defense of oneself, family, religion, and country when necessary, with the motive being key rather than the act itself.

The book is structured to highlight key figures and dynasties, demonstrating how Jainism fostered strength, spiritual development, and effective leadership. The summary covers the following periods and figures:

Vardhamana, the Great Hero: The book begins with Lord Mahavira Vardhamana, presenting him as the ultimate hero who conquered himself and taught the principle of universal love and non-injury. It emphasizes that his teachings did not preclude the use of force when absolutely necessary for the maintenance of a higher life, but always with a pure motive. His teachings are shown to encompass duties at various levels: village (Gama-Dhamma), town (Nagara-Dhamma), national (Ratta-Dhamma), and clan (Kula-Dhamma).
Shrenika Bimbisara & Ajatshatru: This section details the reigns of these Magadhan kings, highlighting Bimbisara's administrative skills and his conversion to Jainism through his queen Chelana. Ajatshatru is described as a great monarch and patron of Jainism, though his later life is marked by religious retirement. The text also briefly mentions the Nanda kings, noting Nandavardhana's military prowess and patronage of Jainism.
Chandragupta & Other Mauryan Emperors: The book emphasizes Chandragupta Maurya's historical significance as the first emperor of India and a devout follower of Jainism, guided by his guru Bhadrabahu. His abdication and life as an ascetic at Shravanabelagola are detailed. The influence of Jainism on Chandragupta is presented as a crucial factor in his moral and spiritual development. Asoka's conversion to Buddhism is mentioned, but his ordinances are seen as aligning with Jain ideals of sparing animal life. Samprati, Asoka's successor, is highlighted as a great patron of Jainism who expanded its cultural influence into Arabia and Persia. Salisuka is noted for preaching Jainism.
Mahameghavahana Kharavela: The powerful emperor of Kalinga is presented as an ideal monarch, warrior, and Ahimsist hero. His reign is characterized by extensive conquests, administrative reforms, and a deep commitment to Dharma. The book notes his restoration of Kalinga after a storm, his military campaigns against various rulers, including the Greeks and Pushyamitra, and his eventual dedication to spiritual pursuits. His patronage of Jain ascetics and construction of temples are emphasized.
Kongunivarma & Other Ganga Heroes: The founding of the Ganga dynasty is attributed to Kongunivarma (Didiga), who received guidance from the Jain Acharya Simhanandi. The book details the lineage of Ganga kings, including Avinita, Durvinita, Nitimarga I, Butuga, and Marsingh, all of whom were noted for their piety, bravery, and patronage of Jainism. Durvinita's scholarly contributions and Nitimarga I's death by Sallekhana are specifically mentioned. Marsingh is described as a great leader and soldier who also embraced the Jain way of life in his later years. Rakkasa Ganga, the last great Ganga king, is noted for his support of Jainism.
Mrageshavarma & Ravivarma: These Kadamba kings are presented as examples of Jain heroism and greatness. Mrageshavarma is described as a powerful sovereign who supported Jain temples, while his son Ravivarma continued this policy, even instituting laws for the celebration of Jain festivals.
The Rashtrakuta Monarchs: The book highlights the Rashtrakutas as powerful and just rulers, many of whom followed Jainism. Dantidurga is mentioned for honoring Akalankadeva. Govinda III and Amoghavarsha I are particularly noted for their patronage and adherence to Jain principles. Amoghavarsha's conversion to Jainism and his literary contributions are emphasized, as is his adoption of the ascetic life. Krishna II and Indraraj III are also presented as devout Jains. The text emphasizes that Jainism flourished under their rule, influencing the entire population of the Deccan.
The Rattas and Their Generals: This section details the Ratta rulers of Saundatti who were patrons of Jainism. Kings like Merad, Prithvi Ram, Shantivarma, Kartavirya IV, and Laksamideva are mentioned for their piety and support for Jainism. The generals of the Rattas, such as Buchiraj, Mallikarjuna, Shantinath, and Nagadeva, are also portrayed as devout Jains who balanced their military duties with religious devotion.
The Shilahara Kings and Their Generals: The Shilahara rulers, who traced their lineage to Jain Vidyadharas, are presented as followers and patrons of Jainism. Gandraditya, Vijayaditya, and Bhoja II are highlighted for their valor and piety. Generals like Nimbadeva, Boppana, and Laksamidhar are also noted for their strong adherence to Jainism and their significant contributions to the faith.
The Chalukyan Kings: The Chalukyas are described as great supporters of Jainism, with several kings and queens showing devotion to the faith. Satyashraya Pulakesin I patronized the Jain poet Ravikirti. Eastern Chalukya kings and queens, such as Amma II Vijayaditya VI and his consort Chamekamba, are noted for their grants to Jain temples and their adherence to Jain principles. Western Chalukya kings like Tailap II, Satyashrya Iriva Bedenga, Jayasimha III, Someshvara I, Someshvara II, and Vikramaditya VI are presented as devout Jains who patronized Jain scholars and built Jain temples.
King Bijala, the Great: Bijala, a Kalachuri ruler, is depicted as a great warrior and supporter of Jainism. His minister Rechimayya is also recognized for his significant contributions to the faith. The rise of the Lingayat sect and its leader Basava are discussed in relation to Bijjala's reign, noting how Basava, though initially influenced by Jainism, ultimately sought to establish the Shiva worship.
The Hoysala Kings of Dorasamudra: The Hoysala rulers are identified as Jains by belief, with their origins linked to the Jain center of Shasakapura. Sala, the progenitor, received guidance from Jain guru Sudatta. Kings like Vinayaditya, Ereyanga, Ballal I, Vishnuvardhana-Deva, and Ballal II are highlighted for their patronage of Jainism, their religious activities, and their support of Jain scholars. Queen Shantaladevi is particularly noted for her devotion and contributions to Jainism.
The Chauhana and Other Rajput Clans: The book discusses the prominence of Rajput chiefs in the 7th century and their early patronage of Jainism. Kings like Prithviraj I, Prithviraj II, and Someshwara are mentioned for their support of Jain saints and temples. The Chauhans of Nadol, including Ashvaraja and Alhanadeva, are also noted for their patronage and enforcement of Ahimsa on certain days. The Parihara ruler Kakkuka and the Paramara kings, including Munja Vakpatiraj II and Bhoja, are presented as patrons of Jainism, with scholars like Hemachandra influencing rulers like Kumarpal to embrace the faith. The Solankis are also recognized for their support of Jainism, with King Siddharaj Jayasimha and Kumarpal being prominent examples. The Rathors of Hathundi are mentioned for their Jain rulers and their contributions to the faith.
Jaina Sages as Heroes: This section shifts focus to the spiritual heroism of Jain sages, who are presented as conquerors of their senses and exemplars of Ahimsa. Muni Chandradeva is highlighted as a powerful figure who acted as minister and general for the Ratta kings. The spiritual prowess of Jain ascetics is emphasized, with examples of their ability to uphold Dharma and protect the Jain way of life.
The Jaina Generals: The book then focuses on prominent Jain generals, showcasing how they embodied both martial prowess and religious devotion. Chamundaraya, a general under the Ganga kings, is lauded for his bravery and his composition of Jain works. Gangaraja and Hulla, ministers and generals of the Hoysala kings, are also presented as pious Jains who actively promoted Jainism.
The Jaina Heroines: The final chapter highlights the significant role of Jain women, from royalty to commoners, in defending and promoting Jainism. Chandana, Queen Chelana, Jakkiyabbe, Pamabbe, Jakkaladevi, Saviyabbe, and Queen Bhairavadevi are presented as inspiring examples of bravery, piety, and sacrifice for the cause of Dharma.

The Conclusion reiterates that Jain heroes, from kings to soldiers, followed the ideals of Ahimsa and self-conquest. It emphasizes that Jainism never hindered the progress of its adherents in worldly pursuits, but rather guided them towards spiritual advancement. The book concludes by asserting that Ahimsa is the greatest power and the ultimate solution to human problems, and that its principles will ultimately prevail. The "Last Word" by Elisabeth Fraser strongly refutes the theory that Jainism was responsible for India's downfall, arguing that periods of Jain rule were characterized by strength and freedom from foreign invasion, and that the caste system was a greater impediment to India's unity and defense.