Vaishali

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vaishali" by Vijayendrasuri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Vaishali Author: Acharya Shri Vijayendrasuri Publisher: Kashinath Sarak Focus: This book is a research-based historical work that aims to determine the geographical location of Vaishali and the birthplace of Lord Mahavir Swami, drawing upon Jain, Buddhist, and Vedic scriptures.

Core Argument and Thesis:

The central thesis of the book is to definitively establish the location of ancient Vaishali and to refute the claims that the modern "Kshatriyakund" (located near Lohard) is the actual birthplace of Lord Mahavir Swami. Acharya Vijayendrasuri meticulously argues, using a wide array of scriptural evidence, historical accounts, geographical data, and archaeological findings, that the ancient Vaishali is indeed the modern Basarh (in the Muzaffarpur district of Bihar), and the birthplace of Lord Mahavir Swami, Kundpur (also known as Kshatriyakund), was a separate and nearby city, also located in the Videal country, east of the Gandaki River.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Debunking Misconceptions about Kshatriyakund: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to refuting the claims of a particular scholar who advocated for a different location for Kshatriyakund. Acharya Vijayendrasuri systematically analyzes and counters these arguments, pointing out inconsistencies, misinterpretations of texts, and lack of empirical evidence.
2. Geographical and Historical Analysis of Vaishali: The book provides a detailed account of ancient Vaishali, its political structure (as the capital of the Licchavi clan and the Vajjian confederacy), its cultural significance, and its relationship with other contemporary cities like Kundpur, Vaanijyagram, and Karmaar-gram. It draws heavily from Jain Agamas, Buddhist Nikayas, and Vedic texts to reconstruct the historical and geographical landscape.
3. Lord Mahavir's Birthplace: The author strongly argues that Lord Mahavir's birthplace was Kundpur (Kshatriyakund), located in the Videal country, near Vaishali. He debunks the theory that modern Lohard or its vicinity is the correct location. The book highlights the presence of the Jnatri clan in Kundpur and their connection to Lord Mahavir.
4. Scriptural Evidence: Acharya Vijayendrasuri demonstrates extensive knowledge of Jain scriptures like the Kalpa Sutra, Acharanga Sutra, Bhagavati Sutra, Niryavalika, and others. He also utilizes Buddhist texts (like the Digha Nikaya) and Vedic scriptures to establish the geographical and historical context of the time.
5. Critique of Western Scholars: The book also engages with the interpretations of some Western scholars like Dr. H. Jacobi and Dr. F. E. Pargiter, pointing out where their conclusions might be flawed due to a lack of deep understanding of Indian traditions or local geography.
6. Archaeological and Epigraphical Evidence: The author references archaeological findings from the sites of Basarh, Kahuha, and other related areas, including inscriptions, seals, and sculptures, to support his claims about the locations of ancient cities and structures.
7. River Geography and Chronology: The book discusses the shifting courses of rivers like the Gandaki and their impact on identifying ancient sites. It also addresses chronological discrepancies and the timing of events related to Lord Mahavir and the Buddha.
8. Refutation of the Role of Shankaracharya in Buddhist Decline: A significant section is dedicated to refuting the notion that Shankaracharya was responsible for the decline of Buddhism in India. The author provides historical evidence to show that Buddhism flourished long after Shankaracharya's time, attributing its decline to other factors, primarily the invasions by Muslim rulers.
9. Dedication and Author's Motivation: The book is dedicated to Acharya Vijayendrasuri's guru, Acharya Shri Vijaya Dharmasurishwarji Maharaj. The author's motivation stems from a desire to correct historical inaccuracies and to present the true location of these important sites based on rigorous research and scriptural authority. He emphasizes the importance of intellectual honesty and the duty to serve the Jain tradition.

Key Findings and Conclusions:

• The ancient Vaishali is identified with modern Basarh.
• The actual birthplace of Lord Mahavir Swami was Kundpur (Kshatriyakund), located near the ancient Vaishali.
• Modern Lohard is incorrectly identified as Kshatriyakund.
• The author refutes various misconceptions and misinterpretations regarding the locations and historical accounts related to Lord Mahavir and the ancient geography of the region.
• The book provides a scholarly analysis from Jain, Buddhist, and Vedic perspectives to establish a definitive understanding of these historical sites.

Overall Significance:

"Vaishali" by Acharya Vijayendrasuri is a highly valuable and authoritative work for anyone interested in the early history of Jainism, Buddhism, and ancient Indian geography. It demonstrates meticulous scholarship, a deep understanding of scriptures, and a commitment to historical accuracy, effectively correcting prevalent misconceptions and solidifying the historical and geographical context of Lord Mahavir's life and the city of Vaishali. The book is seen as a significant contribution to Jain literature and historical research.