UPSC CSE Prelims 2022

Ancient Indian Literature

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

With reference to Indian history, consider the following texts: 1. Nettipakarana 2. Parishishtaparvan 3. Avadanashataka 4. Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana Which of the above are Jaina texts?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Jaina literature is vast, consisting of Agamas and non-Agamic texts written in Prakrit, Sanskrit, and Kannada, detailing the lives of Tirthankaras and the history of the faith.

Explanation Parishishtaparvan was written by the famous Jain scholar Hemachandra. Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana (or simply Mahapurana) was composed by Jinasena and Gunabhadra, documenting the 63 illustrious persons of Jainism.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statement 2 (Parishishtaparvan) is a 12th-century Sanskrit work by Hemachandra on early Jain history. Statement 4 (Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana) is a foundational Digambara text.
Logic 2: Statement 1 (Nettipakarana) is a Buddhist scripture dealing with the interpretation of the Pali Canon. Statement 3 (Avadanashataka) is a famous collection of Buddhist tales (Avadanas).

Active Recall

Question

What is the historical significance of the Parishishtaparvan?

Answer

It provides a valuable historical account of the Mauryan period and the conversion of Chandragupta Maurya to Jainism.

Core Insight

UPSC often tests the ability to distinguish between Buddhist and Jaina literature; Jaina texts often end in 'Purana' or 'Charitra', while Buddhist texts often include 'Sutta' or 'Avadana'.