Question

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Here's my question☺


With reference to the contributions of Jainism,describe the following:-

a) Its contribution to social and religious feild.
b) Its contribution to cultural feild.

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Answer 1

1. Growth of Language and Literature:

Jainism influenced Indian language and literature. Vardhaman Mahavir preached in ‘Ardha-Magadhi’ language, the language of the common man. The people knowing ‘Magadhi’ and ‘Soruaseni’ could easily follow the preaching’s of Mahavir. In due course of time the Jaina Canonical texts were written in Prakrit language.

Thus, the vernacular and regional languages were enriched by Jainism. Further, the Jaina texts like ‘Anga’, ‘Upanga’, ‘Kalpasutra’, ‘Archarangasutra’, ‘Uttaradhyayanasutra’ etc. were also written in Sanskrit. Thus, the literature also grew due to the rise of Jainism



2. Principle of Non-Violence:

24th Tirthankar Mahavira Swami was the embodiment of peace. He was the preacher of non-violence. He rejected the Vedic rituals and taught to be kind and humane to the animals. Further, he emphasized that living beings (includes living things) have life and they get pain. His concept of non-violence largely influenced the course of Indian history. Even a great leader like Mahatma Gandhi followed the principle of non-violence and became successful by ousting the British from India.

3. Influence on Politics:

Jainism influenced the Indians politics too. It cast its influence over many rulers. The great Chandragupta Maurya became the famous Chadramuni coming under the spell of Jainism. The mighty emperor Mahameghavahana Aira Kharavela became an ardent devotee of Tirthankar Mahavira Swami . Examples can be multiplied. By following the principle of non-violence the kings became kind hearted and tolerant. This was a lasting impact of Jainism on Indian politics.

4. Growth of Trading Community:

Jainism contributed a lot for the growth of trading community. At first, Jainism became popular among the traders and merchants. It fostered brotherhood among them which gave rise to guild system in future. The merchants became rich and got a special position in the society. Owing to their wealth and fame they came closer to ruling class. The cooperation between them brought stability in the society.

5. Creation of Healthy Society:

Jainism went a long way in creating a healthy society. Lord Mahavir preached against the caste system. With the end of caste system in society the grip of the higher caste over the lower cast ended. The lower class people were not to be exploited by the higher caste people. The bitterness between the two antagonistic sections of the society melted away. This gave rise to a healthy society which influenced the course of Indian history.