Jains
and Jainism have made a significant contribution in the panorama of Indian history. From
Bhagwan Rishabdev, the first Jain Tirthankar, to Bhagwan Mahavir, the twenty fourth
Tirthankar, all the 24 Tirthankar of the present cycle, and saint, and nuns made a
distinct impact on the evolution and improvement of the fundamental values of Indian life.
The
Shraman tradition not only evolved a rationalistic and humanistic ethico-religious system
of ground norms but also was in the forefront of secular life and of art and culture. The
life of Bhagwan Mahavir is not merely an apotheosis or a defied ideal; his teachings
epitomise the quintessence or the culture of compassion, a beacon light for a new upsurge
of human values which was inextricably woven into the fabric of Indian consciousness
through the ages. The then kings attended to his religious mission. Nobles, rich
businessmen and masses. Throughout India there were followers of his teachings as well as
of the 23rd Tirthankar Parasnath. The nobles and masses both respected his philosophy of
anekant and Syadwad, dignity of spirit, love and protection to all forms of life, and
principles of non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), non-stealing (Achaurya), celibacy
(Brahamacharya) and non-accumulation of wealth (Aparigriha).
After
Bhagwan Mahavir, there followed a long tradition of learned Jain Acharyas and saints who
communicated to the masses the great and real knowledge of the Tirthankar for their soul
purification and welfare of the universe. Some of the
most prominent Patrons of Jainism are:
|
Kunik Ajatshatru (552-518 B.C): The
Chalukya and Hoyasal Dynasties of South |
|