Jainism
The History of Jainism
Jainism in Indian History
Jainism History Books
Jainism History
DK Number: DK-205729
ISBN: 8124605491
Like Buddhism, Jainism is one of the world’s oldest religions – which arose in India, in the 6th century BC, as a revolt against the Brahmanic ritualistic practices. Essentially a heretic, altogether independent faith, founded on the principles of non-violence, truth, and righteous conduct, Jainism is a splendid living tradition, with a well-defined worldview, distinct philosophy, outlook on life, code of ethics, and sangha organization. Notwithstanding its modest beginnings in Maghada (present-day Bihar State, East India), it gradually turned out to be a pan-India ancient religion.
Even if Mahavira is commonly accepted as the founder of the faith, Jainism traces its roots to a succession of 24 Jinas. In its three volumes, this book meticulously charts the entire course of Jaina history: from its very first Jina to about 1800 AD. Though, in the nature of a historical survey, it embraces almost all aspects of Jainism — its concept of God, doctrines, moral value system, basic teachings, beliefs, rituals, ceremonies, main sects, important scriptures, sacred sites and pilgrimages, reformers, influential scholars, and the lives of its major Tirathankaras. Besides all this, the author also focuses on the remarkable contribution of Jainas’ to Indian arts and iconography, which is unmistakably exemplified in their sacred architecture, sculptures, stupas, cave temples, religious symbols, and calligraphy.
Beginning with a discussion of Jainism as an eternal religion and its theory of 24 tirthankaras, Volume 1: Jainism Before and in the Age of Mahavira, focuses, in the main, on Lord Mahavira’s life, his teachings, and his contemporaries, besides the political and religious conditions of his times. Volume 2: Historical Survey and Spread of Jainism, shows how Jainism, under the patronage of various ruling families, became nearly a pan-Indian faith. Also covering the lives and the roles of Jaina monks, statesmen and Sravakas, the volume shows how Jainism has contributed towards the enrichment of India’s great cultural heritage. Volume 3: Medieval Jainism, considers the region-wise status of the faith: from 1200 to 1800 vis-à-vis Muslim invasions and Muslim kingdoms; besides a detailed account of Jaina tirthas (sacred places), Jaina socio-economic life, and much else. K.C. Jain (b. 1930), Ph.D, D.Litt, is former Professor of History at Rajasthan’s Government Colleges, and Fellow of the Indian Council of Historical Research, New Delhi (1990-93)
