The emergence and spread of Jainism can be related to a variety of factors. Jainism flourished throughout India during Mahavira's lifetime and after his death. Mahavira established an organisation of his disciples, which included both males and women, in order to disseminate the teachings of Jainism.  This article will explain to you the concepts related to Spread of Jainism which will be helpful in Indian Art and Culture preparation for the UPSC Civil service exam.

Causes for Emergence of Jainism

• With intricate ceremonies and the dominance of Brahmanas, Hinduism had become dogmatic and conservative.
• The Varna system separated society into four divisions based on birth, with the two upper classes enjoying a number of advantages.
• The Kshatriyas' reaction to the Brahmanas' dominance.
• In comparison to Sanskrit, Jainism was taught in Pali and Prakrit, making it more accessible to the general public.
• It was open to people of all castes and creeds.
• A major famine in the Ganga valley forced Chandragupta Maurya and Bhadrabahu (the last Acharya of the undivided Jain sangha) to relocate to Karnataka about 200 years after Mahavira's death. After that, Jainism spread throughout Southern India.

Spread of Jainism

• Mahavira established an organization of his disciples, which included both males and women, in order to disseminate the teachings of Jainism.
• In western India, where the Brahmanical religion was weak, Jainism gradually flourished.
• To communicate their doctrines, Jainas used the Prakrit language of the masses rather than the Brahmana-favored Sanskrit language.
• Chandragupta Maurya, who became a Jaina and gave up his crown, spent the remaining years of his life as a Jaina ascetic in Karnataka, is credited for spreading Jainism in the state.
• The catastrophic famine that occurred in Magadha 200 years after Mahavira's death is supposed to be the second cause of Jainism's growth in Southern India.
• The famine lasted 12 years, and many Jainas fled to the south under the leadership of Bhadrabahu, while the remainder remained in Magadha under the leadership of Sthulabahu.
• When the immigrants returned to Magadha, they encountered opposition from the local Jainas.
• Southerners were dubbed Digambaras, while Magadhas were dubbed Shvetambaras.
• In the 4th century BCE, Jainism moved to Kalinga in Odisha, and in the first century, it was supported by King Kharavela of Kalinga, who had fought the princes of Andhra and Magadha.
• It reached the southern parts of Tamil Nadu in the 2nd and 1st centuries BCE.
• Jainism spread to Malwa, Gujarat, and Rajasthan in subsequent years, and these places now retain a sizable Jaina population, primarily engaged in trade and commerce.
• Although Jainism did not receive as much state support as Buddhism and did not spread as quickly in its early years, it still holds sway in the areas where it did.
• Buddhism, on the other hand, has all but vanished from the Indian subcontinent.

Jain Tirthankara

Jain Council

• First Jain Council
  • Sthulbhadra presided over the event, which took place in the 3rd century B.C. at Patliputra.
  • A devastating famine broke out in South Bihar near the end of Chandragupta Maurya's reign. It lasted approximately a year and a half.
  • Bhadrabahu and his followers moved to Karnataka's Shravanabelagola.
  • Other Jains remained in Magadha under the leadership of Sthulabhadra.
  • The sacred teachings of Mahavira were split into twelve angas in that council.
• Second Jain Council
  • Devardhi Kshamasemana presided over the second Jain Council, which took place in 512 A.D. in Vallabhi (Gujarat).
  • The goal of this Council was to gather religious writings and record them in an orderly manner.
  • The 12th anga drawn at the first Council, however, was lost this time. Ardhamagadhi was used to write the remaining angas.

Patrons of Jainism

• Samprati King Asoka's grandson.
• Chandragupta abdicated his throne and became a Jain monk, according to Jain chronicles dating from 800 years after his death.
• He then proceeded to South India and committed sallekhana, or death fasting.
• Kharvela of Orissa built a Jain rock-cut cave.
• Jainism was supported by Gangs, Kadambs, Chalukyas, and Rastrakutas.
• Rashtrakuta Dynasty King Amoghavarsha became a Jain monk. Ratnamalika was his work.
• The figures of Jain Tirthankaras can be found on Chalukyan period rock cut caves at Badami and Aihole. This religion was preached by Samatabhadra in Kanchi.
• Chalukya Dynasty monarchs built the Dilwara Jain temples in Mount Abu between 11th and 13th centuries.

Conclusion

The Rig-Veda has the names Rishava and Arishtanemi. Rishava is also mentioned in the Vishnupurana and Bhagavad Purana. These facts suggest that Jainism predates the Vedic religion. The teachings of twenty-four Tirthankaras, or prophets, have resulted in Jainism. However, history has forgotten about the first twenty-two Tirthankars. They had such a legendary reputation that doubts about their existence may be entertained. However, Parsvanath, the twenty-third Tirthankara, was a real person.

FAQs

MCQs

1. Who was the most influential figure in the spread of Jainism?

A) Lord Buddha
B) Emperor Ashoka
C) Lord Mahavira
D) Chandragupta Maurya

2. In which region did Jainism gain the most popularity during its early spread?

A) Uttar Pradesh
B) Gujarat
C) Punjab
D) Kerala

3. Which Mauryan emperor is known for his patronage of Jainism?

A) Ashoka
B) Bindusara
C) Chandragupta Maurya
D) Kautilya

4. Which of the following Jain temples is renowned for its intricate architecture?

A) Brihadeeswarar Temple
B) Dilwara Temples
C) Meenakshi Temple
D) Sanchi Stupa

5. What is the main teaching of Jainism that contributed to its spread in ancient India?

A) Non-violence (Ahimsa)
B) Reincarnation
C) The Four Noble Truths
D) The Eightfold Path

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Discuss the historical significance of Jainism in the context of ancient Indian society. How did it influence the culture, politics, and economy?

Answer: Jainism, founded by Lord Mahavira in the 6th century BCE, played a pivotal role in shaping ancient Indian society. Its principles of non-violence, truth, and self-discipline promoted ethical living and influenced various cultural practices, especially in the realm of art, architecture, and literature. Jain rulers and merchants contributed to the growth of Jain culture, building grand temples and patronizing scholars. Politically, Jainism encouraged peace and tolerance, influencing rulers like Chandragupta Maurya. Economically, Jainism's focus on trade and agriculture helped strengthen local economies, particularly in Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Q2: What role did Jainism play in the development of art and architecture in India? Discuss its influence on regional and national cultures.

Answer: Jainism had a significant impact on art and architecture, especially during the medieval period. The construction of elaborate temples, such as the Dilwara Temples and the Jain caves in Ajanta and Ellora, showcased the intricate carvings and architectural marvels characteristic of Jain religious structures. Jain art focused on religious themes, such as depictions of Tirthankaras and other important figures, and emphasized the sanctity of nature. These artistic traditions had a profound influence on regional cultures, particularly in Gujarat and Rajasthan, where Jainism enjoyed widespread support from merchants and rulers.

Q3: Analyze the political and social impact of Jainism during the Mauryan Empire. How did the teachings of Jainism influence the policies of Mauryan rulers?

Answer: Jainism's influence on the Mauryan Empire was particularly prominent under Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. After his conversion to Jainism, he abdicated the throne and adopted a life of asceticism, setting an example for later rulers. Jain teachings on non-violence and respect for life influenced the Mauryan administration's policies, such as the promotion of peace and the establishment of hospitals for animals. Emperor Ashoka, who succeeded Chandragupta, was also influenced by Jainism's ethical teachings, though his policies were more aligned with Buddhism. Jainism’s focus on non-violence contributed to the Mauryan Empire’s peaceful internal governance.

Previous Year Questions on Jainism

1. UPSC CSE Prelims 2020:

Question: Which of the following rulers embraced Jainism during their reign?

A) Chandragupta Maurya
B) Ashoka
C) Harshavardhana
D) Prithviraj Chauhan

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Mauryan Empire, embraced Jainism later in life after abdicating the throne.

2. UPSC CSE Mains 2019 (GS Paper 1):

Question: "Discuss the cultural and political influence of Jainism in shaping ancient Indian society. How did Jainism contribute to the economy and art of India?"

Answer: Jainism contributed significantly to the cultural and political landscape of ancient India. Its emphasis on non-violence influenced both the political system and social norms. Jain rulers promoted art and architecture, building grand temples and sponsoring religious works. Jainism also had an impact on trade, particularly in regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan, where Jain merchants played a key role. The religion’s influence can be seen in the distinct Jain art forms and the enduring architectural heritage, particularly in temple complexes.