Ancient Indian Literature

Jaina Texts List: Parishishtaparvan & Mahapurana

Parishishtaparvan and Trishashtilakshana Mahapurana are prominent Jaina texts. Nettipakarana and Avadanashataka belong to the Buddhist literary tradition.

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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?

[UPSC CSE Prelims 2022]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

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.

Authentic Source Evidence


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.

Analytical Breakdown


  • 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).
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What is the historical significance of the Parishishtaparvan?"

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

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "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'."

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