Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2020

Jain Canonical Literature

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Read the following statements related to Jaina Literature and choose the appropriate option: Statement I: The Shvetambara Canon included the 12 Angas. Statement II: According to Shvetambara tradition, the Angas were compiled at a council held at Vallabhi.

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Jain scriptures underwent multiple councils for compilation and standardization, leading to differences between the Shvetambara and Digambara traditions.

Explanation The 12 Angas form the core of the Shvetambara Jain canon. According to tradition, the initial compilation of these Angas took place at the 1st Jain Council held in Pataliputra (under Sthulabhadra), not Vallabhi.

Logical Breakup
Statement I is true: The Angas (limbs) are indeed the most sacred texts of the Shvetambara canon.
Statement II is false: While the 2nd council was at Vallabhi (where the canon was finally written down), the Shvetambaras hold that the initial compilation of the Angas happened at Pataliputra.

Active Recall

Question

What is the content of the Acharanga Sutra?

Answer

The Acharanga Sutra, the first of the 12 Angas, details the code of conduct for Jain monks and nuns.

Core Insight

The 12th Anga, the 'Drstivada', is considered lost by the Shvetambara tradition, highlighting the fragility of oral traditions before their codification in later councils.